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Instrumentation Control Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Conduct Instrumentation and control engineering services and consulting on Municipal W/WW treatment plants and facilities * Manage projects and Design Management for PLC and SCADA network for medium ...

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Instrumentation Control information

See Illinois salary details

$39.7K

$67.4K

$109K

How much do instrumentation control jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for instrumentation control in Illinois is $67,355.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $46,500.00 and $88,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an instrumentation control job?

Instrumentation control jobs involve designing, installing, maintaining, and troubleshooting instruments and control systems used to monitor and manage industrial processes. Professionals in this field ensure that equipment such as sensors, transmitters, and control valves function accurately and efficiently. These roles are critical in industries like manufacturing, oil and gas, power generation, and pharmaceuticals, where precise control of variables like temperature, pressure, and flow is essential for safety and productivity. Instrumentation control specialists may also work on integrating automated systems and ensuring compliance with safety standards.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an instrumentation control technician, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Instrumentation Control Technician, you need a strong background in electronics, process control, and instrumentation, typically backed by a relevant technical diploma or degree. Familiarity with programmable logic controllers (PLCs), distributed control systems (DCS), and calibration tools is essential, and certifications like ISA Certified Control Systems Technician (CCST) are highly valued. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective teamwork help technicians excel in troubleshooting and maintaining complex systems. These skills and qualifications are crucial for ensuring the safe, efficient, and reliable operation of automated industrial processes.

What are some common challenges faced by instrumentation control professionals, and how can they overcome them?

Instrumentation Control professionals often encounter challenges such as troubleshooting complex automated systems, keeping up with rapidly advancing technology, and ensuring system reliability under tight schedules. Successful professionals stay current with industry standards and new tools through continuous training and certifications. Collaborating closely with multidisciplinary teams—including engineers, maintenance staff, and IT personnel—helps in resolving issues efficiently and maintaining optimal system performance.

What is the difference between Instrumentation Control vs Instrumentation Technician?

AspectInstrumentation ControlInstrumentation Technician
CertificationsTypically requires certifications like Certified Control Systems Technician (CCST)Often holds similar certifications, including CCST or equivalent
Work EnvironmentDesign, programming, and troubleshooting control systems in industrial settingsInstall, maintain, and repair instrumentation equipment on-site
Job FocusSystem integration, control logic, and automationEquipment calibration, maintenance, and troubleshooting

Instrumentation Control professionals focus on designing and managing control systems and automation processes, while Instrumentation Technicians primarily handle installation, maintenance, and repair of instrumentation equipment. Both roles require similar certifications and often work together in industrial environments, but their core responsibilities differ in scope and focus.

How long does it take to become an instrumentation control?

Becoming an instrumentation control technician typically requires completing a technical diploma or associate degree in instrumentation, control systems, or a related field, which usually takes 1 to 2 years. Gaining hands-on experience through apprenticeships or on-the-job training is also important and can take several years to develop proficiency in installing, maintaining, and troubleshooting control systems and instruments.

Is instrumentation and control a good career?

Instrumentation and control is a stable career that involves designing, maintaining, and troubleshooting control systems used in manufacturing, energy, and industrial processes. It often requires technical skills, certifications, and knowledge of tools like PLCs and SCADA systems. The field offers opportunities for advancement and steady employment in various industries.

Is instrumentation control in high demand?

Instrumentation control professionals are in high demand across industries such as manufacturing, oil and gas, and power generation due to the need for precise process monitoring and automation. Skills in PLCs, sensors, and control systems increase employability, and many roles require certifications and technical training. The field is expected to grow as industries continue to automate and modernize their operations.

What are the most commonly searched types of Instrumentation Control jobs in Illinois?

The most popular types of Instrumentation Control jobs in Illinois are:

What cities in Illinois are hiring for Instrumentation Control jobs?

Cities in Illinois with the most Instrumentation Control job openings:

Infographic showing various Instrumentation Control job openings in Illinois as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 70% Full Time, 23% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 93% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $67,355 per year, or $32.4 per hour.

Senior Instrumentation & Control Engineer

Downers Grove, IL

Zachry Group
Construction • 10K+ employees

$148K - $202K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 14 days ago


Zachry Group rating

6.7

Company rating: 6.7 out of 10

Based on 63 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Zachry Engineering Corporation is seeking a highly experienced Senior Instrumentation & Control Engineer to lead the design, development, and execution of instrumentation and control systems for complex oil and gas projects. This role requires technical leadership, deep domain expertise, and the ability to mentor multidisciplinary teams while ensuring safe, reliable, and cost-effective project delivery.

The Senior I&C Engineer will serve as a subject matter expert (SME), driving engineering excellence across upstream, midstream, and downstream projects including refineries, petrochemical plants, and power plants.

  • Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Instrumentation Engineering, or related field (required)
  • 13+ years of experience in instrumentation and control engineering within the oil & gas or petrochemical industry or power industry.
  • Extensive experience with refinery, LNG, gas processing, or pipeline control systems
  • Proven experience leading large-scale EPC or EPCM projects

Certifications (Preferred)

  • Professional Engineer (PE) license

Technical Skills

  • Strong knowledge of DCS/PLC platforms (e.g., Honeywell, Emerson DeltaV, Yokogawa, Siemens, Rockwell)
  • Expertise in SIS design and SIL determination (IEC 61511 / IEC 61508)
  • Instrument selection and specification (pressure, flow, level, temperature, analyzers)
  • Control valve sizing and performance analysis
  • Industrial networking and communication protocols (Modbus, Profibus, Ethernet/IP, OPC)
  • Familiarity with IIoT, advanced process control (APC), and digital transformation initiatives

Key Competencies

  • Strategic thinking and technical problem-solving
  • Strong leadership and decision-making skills
  • Excellent communication and client-facing abilities
  • Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced EPC environment
  • Commitment to safety, quality, and continuous improvement

Why Zachry Engineering

At Zachry Engineering, we deliver innovative engineering solutions that power the energy industry. Our teams are driven by a commitment to safety, integrity, and excellence. As a Senior I&C Engineer, you will play a critical role in shaping the future of energy infrastructure while working on some of the industry's most complex and impactful projects.


PHYSICAL DEMANDS
Employee will be required to communicate in person, via telephone, email, use of arm/hand steadiness, manual dexterity, finger dexterity, multi limb coordination, oral expression, and comprehension. May be required to lift, carry, and move objects safely.

WORK ENVIRONMENT
Will work in a general office environment. Capable of operating and functioning in a fast-paced work environment. Must possess a vision (corrected or uncorrected) that allows for clear visibility from a distance of 20 inches or less. Hybrid or office based depending on project needs. Occasional travel to client sites, fabrication yards, or operating facilities 

Zachry Group is dedicated in providing a Safe and Drug Free work environment; and is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

In accordance with Illinois Equal Pay Act, the expected salary range for this Illinois position, Principal Instrumentation & Control Engineer is between $148,600 and $202,400 annually.  Actual pay will be adjusted based on experience, geographic location, and other job-related factors as permitted by law. 

This position Senior Instrumentation & Control Engineer is eligible for participation in Zachry's Total Employee Rewards Program, which includes medical, dental, vision, life insurance, disability coverage, and other ancillary benefits. This position is also eligible for participation in the 401(k) Retirement Savings Plan.

Technical Leadership

  • Lead the design and specification of instrumentation and control systems including DCS, PLC, SIS, and SCADA systems.
  • Provide technical oversight for all I&C deliverables, ensuring alignment with client requirements, industry codes, and Zachry standards.
  • Serve as the primary technical authority for complex and critical control systems, including safety instrumented systems (SIS) and process control strategies.
  • Review and approve key engineering documents such as instrument datasheets, control narratives, loop diagrams, cause & effect matrices, and P&IDs.

Project Execution

  • Support all phases of projects (FEED, detailed engineering, procurement, construction, commissioning, and startup).
  • Collaborate closely with process, mechanical, electrical, and operations teams to ensure integrated system performance.
  • Interface with clients, vendors, and contractors to resolve technical issues and ensure successful project delivery.
  • Lead design reviews (HAZOP, SIL, LOPA) and ensure compliance with safety and regulatory requirements.

Standards & Compliance

  • Ensure designs comply with industry standards and codes including ISA, IEC, API, NFPA, and OSHA regulations.
  • Support cyber security requirements for industrial control systems (ICS).
  • Maintain awareness of emerging technologies and apply best practices in digitalization, automation, and control optimization.

What Zachry Group employees say

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About Zachry Group

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Zachry Group is America's pacesetter in turnkey construction, engineering, maintenance, turnaround and fabrication services in the power, energy, chemicals, manufacturing and industrial sectors. It works with customers to plan, build, and renew their most critical facilities, so they can achieve their immediate and long-term goals, all at the highest safety standards. Zachry Group operates 35 offices, and averages 20,000 employees working in more than 400 locations nationwide. Please visit www.zachrygroup.com for more information.

Industry

Construction

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

San Antonio, TX, US

Year founded

1924