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Overnight Instrument Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL

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Overnight Instrument Engineer information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$12.9K

$108.1K

$168.9K

How much do overnight instrument engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for overnight instrument engineer in Chicago, IL is $108,058.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $79,800.00 and $135,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an overnight instrument engineer do?

An Overnight Instrument Engineer is responsible for monitoring, maintaining, and troubleshooting instrumentation and control systems during overnight shifts in industrial settings such as refineries, manufacturing plants, or laboratories. Their duties include ensuring all instruments are functioning correctly, performing routine calibrations, and responding to technical issues that arise outside of regular business hours. They play a crucial role in maintaining operational efficiency and safety during nighttime operations, often working independently or as part of a small team.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an overnight instrument engineer?

To thrive as an Overnight Instrument Engineer, you need a solid background in instrumentation engineering, troubleshooting, and process control, typically backed by a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with distributed control systems (DCS), programmable logic controllers (PLCs), and calibration tools is commonly required, along with certifications like ISA Certified Control Systems Technician (CCST). Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work independently during off-hours are crucial soft skills in this role. These competencies are vital for ensuring reliable plant operations, minimizing downtime, and safely addressing instrumentation issues during overnight shifts.

What are some common challenges faced by overnight instrument engineers, and how can they be managed effectively?

Overnight Instrument Engineers often face unique challenges such as troubleshooting complex equipment failures with limited on-site support and working independently during non-standard hours. Effective communication with day-shift teams, maintaining detailed logs, and using remote support tools are essential strategies for managing these situations. Additionally, staying proactive with preventative maintenance and regular system checks can help minimize unexpected issues. Building strong relationships with other overnight staff and being adaptable to changing priorities are also key to success in this role.

What is the difference between Overnight Instrument Engineer vs Day Shift Instrument Engineer?

AspectOvernight Instrument EngineerDay Shift Instrument Engineer
CredentialsTypically requires same certifications (e.g., Instrumentation Certification, Technical Degree)Same as overnight role
Work EnvironmentWorks during night hours, often in industrial plants or manufacturing facilitiesWorks during daytime hours in similar environments
Employer & IndustryCommon in manufacturing, oil & gas, chemical plantsSame industries, different shift timing
Work ScheduleNight shift, often with shift rotationsDay shift, regular hours

Both Overnight and Day Shift Instrument Engineers require similar skills and certifications, but differ mainly in work hours. The overnight role involves working during night hours, which may impact work-life balance, while the day shift offers more traditional hours. Employers in manufacturing, oil & gas, and chemical industries frequently employ both shift types to ensure continuous operations.

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Overnight Instrument Engineer jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Overnight Instrument Engineer job openings:

Overnight Instrument Engineer jobs near you

Senior Field Tech/Engineer (Chicago)

Inrush Electrical

Chicago, IL • On-site

Full-time

Retirement

This job post has expired 1 day ago. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Chicago, United States | Posted on 06/26/2025

Provides the reliability and performance of the electrical distribution system by inspecting, testing, and maintaining electrical equipment and devices, analyzing and determining the presence of adverse conditions, documenting and reporting test results, and taking appropriate corrective actions.

Responsibility
  • Instrument transformer tests – CCVT, CT, and SSVT testing.
  • Surge arrester power factor testing.
  • Testing capacitor bank or power‑factor correction systems.
  • Confirming circuitry via voltage checks, point‑to‑point, and secondary injection.
  • High voltage breaker testing: timing, travel, and functional testing.
  • Switchgear functionals – print reading, commissioning, and troubleshooting.
  • ATS testing – ensuring proper operation from normal to emergency power.
  • Willing to travel for work throughout North America, traveling 50% of the time.
Requirements

Minimum Qualifications: to qualify for consideration, you must meet the following minimum qualifications and requirements.

  • Must work safely and adhere to all electrical safety core principles/procedures.
  • Prefer a bachelor's in Electrical Engineering OR an Associate’s degree/technologist diploma from an accredited two‑year technical college.
  • Must have at least 5 or more years of relevant experience.
  • Must have general PC skills, including email, internet, data entry, and Microsoft Excel.
  • NETA II, III, or IV Certification is ideal.
Other Requirements
  • All offers are conditioned on acceptable results from a background check and drug and alcohol screening.
  • Must be able to crawl, climb, and lift 50 lbs. with or without reasonable accommodation.
  • Must be able to pass a fit for duty physical exam.
  • Must have a valid driver’s license.
  • Must be available for regular overnight domestic travel and occasional international travel (Canada, USA, Mexico).
  • Must have a valid passport.
Benefits
  • Career growth and development opportunities.
  • Technical Protection & Control / SCADA/ Equipment Training.
  • Industry standard Benefits & RRSP/401K program.
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