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Power Engineering Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

$95K - $125K/yr

Provide pre- and post-sales technical support to Sales, Marketing, Production Engineering, and customers for customized distribution automation solutions. * Manage technical deliverables for Power ...

Electrical Engineer II

Chicago, IL · On-site

$80K - $95K/yr

Proficiency of power engineering theories and principles. * Proficiency of practices of researching engineering and design issues, evaluating alternatives, making sound recommendations and preparing ...

Senior Traction Power Engineer

Chicago, IL · Hybrid

$107K - $147K/yr

Engineering; Project Engineering; Project Management Location: Chicago, IL, United States Join a ... Hatch is currently seeking a highly motivated Senior Traction Power Engineer to join our North ...

Senior Traction Power Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$107K - $147K/yr

Engineering; Project Engineering; Project Management Location: Chicago, IL, United States Join a ... Hatch is currently seeking a highly motivated Senior Traction Power Engineer to join our North ...

Senior Traction Power Engineer

Chicago, IL · Hybrid

$107K - $147K/yr

Engineering; Project Engineering; Project Management Location: Chicago, IL, United States Join a ... Hatch is currently seeking a highly motivated Senior Traction Power Engineer to join our North ...

Proficiency of power engineering theories and principles. * Proficiency of practices of researching engineering and design issues, evaluating alternatives, making sound recommendations and preparing ...

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Showing results 1-20

Power Engineering information

See Illinois salary details

$21.8K

$94.3K

$165.7K

How much do power engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for power engineering in Illinois is $94,291.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $45,100.00 and $129,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Power engineers, especially those with extensive experience, advanced certifications, and working in high-demand industries or senior management roles, can earn $300,000 or more annually. Such salaries are typically found in large energy companies, consulting firms, or in roles requiring specialized technical expertise and leadership skills.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Power Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Power Engineer, you need a solid background in electrical engineering principles, power systems analysis, and a relevant engineering degree, often with a Professional Engineer (PE) license. Familiarity with industry-standard software like ETAP, MATLAB, and SCADA systems, as well as knowledge of grid codes and safety regulations, is essential. Strong problem-solving abilities, effective communication, and teamwork are critical soft skills in this field. These competencies ensure reliable power generation and distribution, compliance with safety standards, and successful collaboration on complex engineering projects.

Do power engineers make a lot of money?

Power engineers typically earn competitive salaries that vary based on experience, location, and industry. Entry-level positions may start lower, but experienced power engineers with certifications and specialized skills can earn higher wages, often supplemented by overtime and benefits. Overall, the profession offers good earning potential compared to many other technical roles.

What is the difference between Power Engineering vs Electrical Engineering?

AspectPower EngineeringElectrical Engineering
CertificationsProfessional Engineer (PE), Power Engineering licensesPE, Electrical Engineering licenses
Work EnvironmentPower plants, energy generation, transmissionDesign, electronics, control systems, various industries
Industry UsagePrimarily in energy, utilities, and power sectorsBroadly across electronics, telecommunications, manufacturing

Power Engineering focuses on the generation, transmission, and distribution of electrical power, often working in energy plants and utility companies. Electrical Engineering has a broader scope, including electronics, control systems, and various industries. While both roles require similar certifications and work environments, Power Engineering specializes in power systems, making it ideal for careers in energy and utilities.

What is power engineering?

Power engineering is a branch of electrical engineering that focuses on the generation, transmission, distribution, and utilization of electric power. Power engineers work with systems and equipment that produce and deliver electricity, ensuring that it is reliable and efficient. This field involves designing power plants, managing renewable energy sources, maintaining electrical grids, and improving energy efficiency in various industries. Power engineers play a critical role in supporting modern infrastructure and the transition to sustainable energy solutions.

What are some common challenges faced by power engineers when working on large-scale energy projects?

Power engineers often encounter challenges such as coordinating with multidisciplinary teams, managing tight project timelines, and ensuring compliance with stringent safety and regulatory standards. They must also address technical issues related to grid reliability, integration of renewable energy sources, and evolving technology requirements. Effective communication and problem-solving skills are essential to navigate these complexities and deliver successful project outcomes.

What do you do as a Power Engineer?

A Power Engineer operates and maintains power generation and distribution systems, ensuring reliable supply of electricity. They monitor equipment, troubleshoot issues, and perform routine inspections, often working with control systems and adhering to safety standards. Certification and technical knowledge are typically required for this role.

What engineers make $500,000?

Power engineers in senior or executive roles, such as chief power engineers or engineering managers, can earn $500,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, specialized skills, and certifications. High compensation is often associated with leadership positions, large-scale projects, or working in energy-intensive industries like utilities or oil and gas.
Infographic showing various Power Engineering job openings in Illinois as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $94,291 per year, or $45.3 per hour.

Project Manager -- Power Engineering Consulting

Sargent & Lundy

Chicago, IL • Hybrid

$145K - $222K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 12 days ago


Sargent & Lundy rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 10 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

120th of 443 rated engineering


Job description

Description

This position is based on a hybrid work schedule and will require in-office work 3 days per week.

Sargent & Lundy Consulting (SLC) works on behalf of clients to support electric power projects. We evaluate and optimize technical, commercial, environmental, and financial aspects of the projects for a variety of clients.

In this role, you will provide leadership in development support, conceptual design, owner's engineer services, and due diligence services to clients, including performing technical evaluations of electric power generation projects and facilities. You will also have the opportunity to lead project economic and cost analysis, risk assessments, and contract development. Particular experience in design or development of thermal power projects is desired.  Fluency in the Spanish language is required, including the ability to participate in technical, engineering, and commercial discussions.

Project Managers must:

  • Prepare proposals for consulting project opportunities.
  • Develop consulting project execution plan to meet client's needs.
  • Lead project team by providing clear instruction including technical approaches.
  • Manage hours and work performed to budget and scope.
  • Review deliverables such as reports and studies.
  • Support multiple projects simultaneously while ensuring a high quality standard is met.
  • Travel occasionally to visit project locations and client offices. Travel may be domestic or international.

This position will require a great deal of face-to-face interaction with power project developers, utilities, investors, legal advisors, and financial institutions during the execution of consulting services work for the firm.

Qualifications

We do not sponsor employees for work authorization in the U.S. for this position.

This position requires a Bachelor's degree in mechanical, electrical, chemical, or civil engineering  from an ABET Engineering Accreditation Commission-approved program with a strong academic background with 15 or more years of experience in the power industry, including:

  • Owner's engineer and/or design engineer experience for development and execution of power generation projects, including thermal generation projects
  • Experience managing teams of engineers
  • Experience performing feasibility studies for power projects
  • Experience with project contracts such as power purchase agreements, asset transfer agreements, and EPC contracts is a plus

Valued but not required skills and experience:

  • Experience in technical due diligence and owner's engineering design reviews of power projects is a plus.
  • General understanding of power station operations and performance reviews is a plus.
  • General understanding of process design at electric power generation facilities is a plus.
  • Economic, cost analysis, and contract development experience is a plus.
Award-Winning Benefits

At Sargent & Lundy, we care about the health and well-being of our employees. Our commitment extends beyond the workplace, offering comprehensive healthcare plans and generous paid time off to support our team members in every aspect of their lives. We understand the importance of work-life balance, which is why we are proud to provide competitive, award-winning benefits. Our dedication to employee satisfaction has earned us the prestigious Top Workplaces Culture Excellence Award for compensation and benefits in 2022, 2023, and 2024.

Health & WellnessFinancial BenefitsWork-Life Balance
  • Health Plans: Medical, Dental, Vision
  • Life & Accident Insurance
  • Disability Coverage
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
  • Back-Up Daycare
  • FSA & HSA
  • 401(k)
  • Pre-Tax Commuter Account
  • Merit Scholarship Program
  • Employee Discount Program
  • Corporate Charitable Giving Program
  • Tuition Assistance
  • First Professional Licensure Bonus
  • Employee Referral Bonus
  • Paid Annual Personal/Sick Time (PST)
  • Paid Vacation
  • Paid Holidays
  • Paid Parental Leave
  • Paid Bereavement Leave
  • Flexible Work Arrangements
Compensation Range$145,310.00 - $222,001.00Transparency StatementSargent & Lundy discloses compensation ranges that comply with all local and state regulations. The total compensation package for eligible positions will include a base salary or an hourly rate and a comprehensive benefits package, reflecting our commitment to rewarding performance and supporting the overall well-being of our employees. Individuals may also be eligible to participate in our yearly discretionary bonus.Equal Opportunity

Sargent & Lundy is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any protected status as defined by applicable law.

Employment Type: FULL_TIME

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About Sargent & Lundy

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Sargent & Lundy is one of the most experienced full-service architect-engineering firms in the world. Founded in 1891, the firm is a global leader in power and energy with expertise in grid modernization, renewable energy, energy storage, nuclear power, and fossil fuels. Sargent & Lundy delivers comprehensive project services--from consulting, design and implementation to construction management, commissioning and operations/maintenance--with an emphasis on quality and safety. The firm serves public and private sector clients in the power and energy, gas distribution, industrial, and government sectors.

Industry

Civil engineering construction

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Chicago, IL, US

Year founded

1891

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