1

Process Control Engineer Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Process Automation Engineer - Decatur, ILThis is a full time, exempt position The Process Automation Engineer will provide support for the industrial control systems across the ADM Decatur complex to ...

Control Plans * Design and execute process experiments, collect and analyze process data, and ... Mechanical Engineering * Industrial Engineering * Chemical Engineering * Materials Engineering

Showing results 41-60

Process Control Engineer information

See Illinois salary details

$50.9K

$95.7K

$142.4K

How much do process control engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for process control engineer in Illinois is $95,699.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $73,200.00 and $112,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a process control engineer?

A process control engineer oversees production processes, usually in the chemical or mechanical industry. Their responsibilities include designing, implementing, testing, and making repairs to process control systems. The control engineer's job is to make sure the systems are running efficiently. In some types of production, system control may be done via software.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a process control engineer?

To thrive as a Process Control Engineer, you need a solid background in engineering principles, process automation, and control systems, typically supported by a degree in chemical, electrical, or mechanical engineering. Familiarity with distributed control systems (DCS), programmable logic controllers (PLCs), and industry-specific software like MATLAB or Aspen HYSYS is crucial. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication skills set top performers apart in this role. These skills ensure efficient, safe, and optimized operations within complex industrial environments.

How does a process control engineer typically interact with cross-functional teams to improve manufacturing efficiency?

Process Control Engineers frequently collaborate with production, maintenance, and quality assurance teams to optimize manufacturing processes. They analyze system data and work closely with operators to implement control strategies that enhance productivity and minimize downtime. Regular meetings and hands-on troubleshooting sessions are common, allowing engineers to address issues in real time and ensure process changes align with broader operational goals. This collaborative environment provides valuable opportunities to learn from different disciplines and contribute to continuous improvement initiatives.

What is the difference between Process Control Engineer vs Instrumentation Engineer?

AspectProcess Control EngineerInstrumentation Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Engineering, Control Systems certificationsBachelor's in Electrical or Mechanical Engineering, Instrumentation certifications
Work EnvironmentIndustrial plants, manufacturing facilities, process industriesFactory floors, control rooms, maintenance departments
Employer & Industry UsageOil & gas, chemical, power plants, manufacturingAutomation firms, manufacturing, utilities

Process Control Engineers focus on designing and maintaining control systems to optimize industrial processes, while Instrumentation Engineers specialize in selecting, installing, and maintaining measurement and control instruments. Both roles often collaborate but serve distinct functions within industrial operations.

How much does a process control engineer earn?

A process control engineer's average salary varies by location and experience but typically ranges from $70,000 to $110,000 annually. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced engineers with specialized skills or certifications can earn higher salaries, especially in industries like manufacturing or oil and gas.

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

The most popular types of Process Control Engineer jobs in Illinois are:

What job categories do people searching Process Control Engineer jobs in Illinois look for?

The top searched job categories for Process Control Engineer jobs in Illinois are:

Infographic showing various Process Control Engineer job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $95,699 per year, or $46 per hour.

Water Treatment Process & Remote Monitoring Engineer

Hawkins

Loves Park, IL โ€ข On-site, Remote

$100K - $135K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 16 days ago


Job description

Hawkins, Inc./WaterSurplus is a trusted and well-known leader in the chemical industry for over 80 years. We have opportunities for motivated hard workers to learn and develop a career with our Water Treatment business segment. Our route sales/delivery approach to supplying products and equipment to our customers in 27+ states ensures superb customer service and support. Our customers include water and wastewater treatment systems, municipal and commercial swimming pools, industrial process and wastewater facilities, and industries like oil/gas and agricultural farmers/growers.
Learn more about us at www.hawkinsinc.com (NASDAQ: HWKN).
ABOUT THE JOB
The Water Treatment Process Engineer/Remote Monitoring Engineer optimizes water and wastewater treatment processes across multiple facilities through process engineering, remote monitoring, and operational analytics. This role improves treatment performance, compliance, reliability, and efficiency by leveraging data, automation, and advanced monitoring tools. The position serves as the technical lead for process optimization, remote diagnostics, and performance monitoring, partnering with operators, field service teams, and clients to ensure safe, efficient, and compliant facility operations.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Monitor water treatment plant parameters (e.g., pH, turbidity, flux, flow rates, and chemical dosing) using SCADA, IoT, or cloud-based monitoring platforms.
  • Analyze operational data to identify opportunities for process improvement, cost reduction, energy savings, and enhanced treatment performance.
  • Perform real-time adjustments to process controls, alarm settings, and automation systems to maintain optimal treatment performance.
  • Develop process control strategies and operational best practices for reverse osmosis treatment systems.
  • Conduct root cause analyses of operational issues and recommend corrective actions to customer plant personnel.
  • Support the startup, commissioning, troubleshooting, and performance testing of treatment systems.
  • Develop standard operating procedures (SOPs), dashboards, key performance indicators (KPIs), technical reports, and reporting tools to track facility performance and operational trends.
  • Establish alarm management protocols and escalation procedures.
  • Ensure continuous monitoring coverage and timely response to critical system events.
  • Drive continuous improvement of remote monitoring capabilities and supporting technologies.
  • Analyze operational, process, and asset performance data to identify trends and optimization opportunities.
  • Develop predictive monitoring and performance management tools. Use monitoring data to anticipate equipment failures and proactively schedule maintenance.
  • Utilize statistical analysis and process modeling tools to support operational decision-making.
  • Provide technical guidance and support to engineering, rental, and site services teams.
  • Serve as the subject matter expert for treatment processes and process control systems.
  • Conduct operator training on process optimization and monitoring systems.
  • Establish performance metrics and operational objectives for the remote monitoring program.
  • Collaborate with the Chief Technology Officer to develop program enhancements and machine learning capabilities for the remote monitoring program.
  • Other duties as assigned.

ABOUT YOU
  • Bachelor's degree in Chemical, Environmental, Mechanical, Electrical, or a related engineering discipline.
  • Five (5+) years of experience in water or wastewater treatment, process engineering, industrial automation, process optimization, or remote operations monitoring.
  • Strong knowledge of water and wastewater treatment technologies, regulatory requirements, and treatment processes, including membrane systems, biological treatment, nutrient removal, and industrial water applications.
  • Proficiency in data analytics, process modeling, statistical analysis, and performance monitoring using tools such as Power BI, Tableau, SQL, and Excel; experience with advanced process control, predictive analytics, or machine learning is a plus.
  • Demonstrated ability to analyze operational data, troubleshoot complex process issues, and implement process improvements that enhance performance, reliability, compliance, and efficiency.
  • Experience supporting multiple facilities, remote operations centers, or centralized monitoring programs while effectively managing competing priorities.
  • Strong analytical, decision-making, communication, and collaboration skills, with a customer-focused and continuous improvement mindset.
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:
The physical demands described below are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this position. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
  • Ability to travel to and work within water and wastewater treatment facilities and other industrial environments.
  • Ability to walk, stand, climb stairs, bend, and navigate treatment plant and facility environments during site visits.
  • Ability to operate standard office equipment, including personal computers, phones, printers, and other business technology.
  • Work requires close vision and the ability to view computer monitors and analyze technical data for extended periods.
  • May be required to lift and carry equipment, materials, or supplies weighing up to 25 pounds.
  • Availability to respond to critical operational issues outside of standard business hours.
  • Valid U.S. Driver's License and the ability to travel independently are required.

TRAVEL:
  • Position is primarily remote; however, travel to customer, treatment facility, and company locations is required as needed.

COMPENSATION: $100k-$135K Base + 10% bonus eligibility
Hawkins/WaterSurplus offers eligible employees and their dependents comprehensive benefits, which includes medical, dental, vision, life insurance, LTD/STD and more. Other benefits for eligible employees include 401(k) match, Employee Stock Purchase program (ESPP), paid time off, and paid holidays.
For more information on Hawkins benefits, visit: https://www.hawkinsinc.com/careers/benefits/
Ref 2027-079
All applications must be received online. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristics protected by law. Hawkins is a Drug Free workplace
Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.