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Junior Project Controls Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Internship, co-op, academic project, or up to 2 years of experience in manufacturing, automation, controls, or a related engineering field. * Exposure to industrial automation, manufacturing ...

Internship, co-op, academic project, or up to 2 years of experience in manufacturing, automation, controls, or a related engineering field. * Exposure to industrial automation, manufacturing ...

Actively mentor junior staff throughout each phase of the project lifecycle, consistently ... units, cooling plants, controls systems, and building automation systems. * Understand ...

Actively mentor junior staff throughout each phase of the project lifecycle, consistently ... units, cooling plants, controls systems, and building automation systems. * Understand ...

A Project Engineer (Ops) is considered a Junior Level Project Manager but does not have profit and ... Controls * Investigate and follow-up on technical queries with the technical services groups

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Junior Project Controls information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$23.2K

$74.7K

$127.7K

How much do junior project controls jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for junior project controls in Chicago, IL is $74,667.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $55,600.00 and $86,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a junior project controls?

Junior Project Controls professionals assist in monitoring and managing the cost, schedule, and progress of projects. They typically support senior project controls staff by collecting data, preparing reports, and helping to analyze project performance to ensure projects are completed on time and within budget. This entry-level role is ideal for those looking to build a career in project management, as it provides valuable exposure to project planning, scheduling, and cost control processes. Strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and proficiency with project management software are important for success in this role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a junior project controls?

To thrive as a Junior Project Controls specialist, you need a basic understanding of project management principles, cost control, scheduling, and a relevant degree in engineering, construction management, or a similar field. Familiarity with tools such as Microsoft Excel, Primavera P6, or MS Project, as well as knowledge of project management software, is typically required. Strong attention to detail, analytical thinking, and effective communication are essential soft skills for this role. These skills ensure accurate tracking of project progress, cost efficiency, and clear reporting, all of which are critical for successful project delivery.

What are some common challenges faced by junior project controls, and how can they effectively manage them?

Junior Project Controls professionals often encounter challenges such as managing multiple project deadlines, adapting to evolving project scopes, and ensuring accurate data reporting. Effective time management and strong organizational skills are essential to stay on top of competing priorities. Regular communication with project managers and team members helps clarify expectations and quickly address issues. Utilizing project management software and regularly updating documentation can also greatly improve efficiency and accuracy in tracking project progress.

What is the difference between Junior Project Controls vs Project Scheduler?

AspectJunior Project ControlsProject Scheduler
CertificationsTypically includes PMP, CAPM, or similarOften requires PMI-SP or scheduling-specific certifications
Work EnvironmentSupports overall project management, cost control, and reportingFocuses on developing and maintaining project schedules
Employer & Industry UsageCommon in construction, engineering, and large infrastructure projectsWidely used in construction, IT, and engineering sectors

Junior Project Controls professionals handle a broad range of project management tasks, including cost control and reporting, while Project Schedulers focus specifically on creating and maintaining project schedules. Both roles often collaborate but serve different core functions within project teams.

What are the most commonly searched types of Project Controls jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Project Controls jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Junior Project Controls jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Junior Project Controls job openings:

Infographic showing various Junior Project Controls job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $74,667 per year, or $35.9 per hour.

Project Controls Scheduling Specialist (00570)

PMA Consultants Careers

Chicago, IL

$107K - $147K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 4 hours ago


Job description

Position Summary

The Project Controls Scheduling Specialist provides advanced scheduling and project controls support across all phases of a project, including planning, execution, and closeout. This role is responsible for developing and maintaining project schedules, supporting forecasting efforts, performing schedule analysis, and preparing reports to support project decision-making.

This position includes ownership of project schedules, critical path analysis, earned value performance tracking, and coordination with project stakeholders to ensure alignment with program goals. A strong understanding of CPM scheduling, cost and schedule integration, and project controls systems is essential.

Note: This opportunity is available at multiple levels. Final placement will be determined based on the selected candidate’s experience, skills, and alignment with business needs. We are committed to providing fair and equitable consideration for all applicants.

Organizational Responsibilties

Scheduling & Forecasting

  • Develop and maintain detailed CPM schedules using Primavera P6, including logic, sequencing, durations, milestones, constraints, and Work Breakdown Structure (WBS) development
  • Own and manage baseline schedules and support ongoing schedule updates and revisions
  • Perform critical path analysis and identify schedule risks, delays, and mitigation strategies
  • Conduct Time Impact Analyses (TIA) and support schedule change control processes
  • Perform schedule QA/QC to ensure accuracy, consistency, and alignment with program objectives
  • Support resource-loaded schedules and integrated cost-schedule planning and analysis
  • Coordinate and lead schedule update meetings with project teams and stakeholders
  • Review contractor and subcontractor schedules and provide feedback to ensure compliance and alignment
  • Collaborate within project teams to develop and maintain network schedules using advanced scheduling techniques
Reporting & Performance Analysis
  • Develop and deliver schedule reports, dashboards, and executive summaries
  • Perform earned value analysis (EVA) and track project performance metrics
  • Prepare variance analyses and provide insights into project performance trends
  • Produce look-ahead schedules, critical path reports, and schedule narratives
  • Assess schedule performance and provide recommendations based on data-driven analysis
  • Prepare ad hoc analyses and reports to support project leadership
Cost & Project Controls Integration
  • Support cost tracking and forecasting efforts in coordination with project teams
  • Incorporate progress data into schedule updates and integrated cost-schedule reporting
  • Assist with cost-schedule integration and performance analysis
  • Support change management processes and evaluate schedule impacts of scope changes

Collaboration & Stakeholder Engagement

  • Partner with project managers, contractors, and stakeholders to ensure alignment with project schedules and milestones
  • Coordinate across multiple departments to support integrated project delivery
  • Facilitate communication between stakeholders to drive schedule updates and decision-making
  • Support client engagements and program assignments across multiple industries, including utility infrastructure projects such as transmission, distribution, and substations
Process Improvement & Team Support
  • Identify opportunities to improve scheduling processes, tools, and reporting
  • Demonstrate strong knowledge of scheduling tools and methodologies
  • Support knowledge sharing and provide guidance to junior team members as needed
  • Apply critical thinking, problem-solving, and decision-making skills to project challenges 
Qualifications
  • Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Construction Management, or a related field required
  • A Master’s degree in Engineering, Construction Management, or a related field may be considered in lieu of some years of experience
  • Minimum 5+ years of experience in project controls, scheduling, or construction project support
  • Strong experience with Primavera P6
  • Proven experience developing and managing CPM schedules, including critical path analysis and network schedule development
  • Experience with earned value management (EVM), schedule performance assessment, and reporting
  • Experience with Work Breakdown Structure (WBS) development and resource-loaded scheduling
  • Experience supporting cost-schedule integration and change control processes
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and project controls tools
  • Strong communication, analytical, and stakeholder engagement skills
  • Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment
  • Professional certifications such as PMP or PSP are a plus
  • An equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered
The salary range for this position is $107,529 to $147,885 
A hired employee will be placed within this salary range based on a variety of legitimate business reasons, including but not limited to the individual’s scope of relevant experience and geographic location.
Additional Requirements
 
Physical: Standing or sitting for long periods; must be able to lift up to 15 pounds at times and spend extended hours in front of a computer screen.
 
Cognitive: Problem-solving, written, and verbal communication skills; computer and software skills; and ability to read and interpret text online or in printed form.
 
About PMA
 
At PMA, employee well-being is a daily priority. We offer a combination of workplace options that include a PMA office location; work-from-home; or a client site. Wherever we work, we openly share knowledge as we believe that collaboration with peers improves our work product and that pursuing subject matter expertise is a lifelong endeavor.  
 
We are committed to a culture of equity, diversity, and inclusion. We affirm and respect diverse backgrounds and opinions because we believe they yield the best solutions for our clients. We promote emotional intelligence and trust by nurturing these values within our new hires.  
 
We encourage staff to develop rewarding, long-term careers at PMA, and we implement formal leadership development programs that help you attain your goals. At PMA, shared success is a core value. Every employee who contributes is recognized, celebrated, and rewarded. We look for self-driven candidates eager to assume responsibility and join a community of respect founded on collaboration and accountability, not titles. If you aim to transform the project management practice toward continuous improvement of project outcomes, the profession, and yourself, PMA looks forward to warmly welcoming you to our team.  
 
We offer competitive pay and benefits, wellness programs for you and your family, and career development opportunities to advance your professional goals.  
 
As a PMA professional, you will be empowered to make timely and effective decisions and significant daily contributions to complex facets of project delivery. Join a team that has achieved a world-class reputation in the construction industry and has been voted a “Best Place to Work.” 
 
PMA offers competitive wages and comprehensive benefits, including medical, prescription, dental, vision, time off with pay, 401(k) with company match, life, disability, and professional development reimbursement for qualifying employees. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression), disability, national origin, or any other characteristic protected by applicable laws, regulations, and ordinances. Qualified female and minority applicants are encouraged to apply.
 
EOE, including persons with disabilities and veterans.
 
VEVRAA federal contractor.