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Project Control Engineer Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Project Controls Manager

Chicago, IL · On-site

$130K - $150K/yr

... control reports, including schedule, cost, and budget performance * Lead budget management ... Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Construction Management, Project Management, Finance, Business ...

Project Controls Manager

Chicago, IL · On-site

$130K - $150K/yr

... control reports, including schedule, cost, and budget performance * Lead budget management ... Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Construction Management, Project Management, Finance, Business ...

Project Controls Manager

Chicago, IL · On-site

$130K - $150K/yr

... control reports, including schedule, cost, and budget performance * Lead budget management ... Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Construction Management, Project Management, Finance, Business ...

Showing results 41-60

Project Control Engineer information

See Illinois salary details

$43.6K

$103.8K

$145.4K

How much do project control engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for project control engineer in Illinois is $103,781.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $84,300.00 and $125,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a project control engineer?

Project Control Engineers are professionals responsible for planning, monitoring, and controlling the progress and performance of engineering or construction projects. They develop project schedules, manage budgets, track costs, and analyze project risks to ensure projects are completed on time and within budget. Project Control Engineers work closely with project managers, engineers, and other stakeholders to provide accurate progress reports and suggest corrective actions when necessary. Their expertise helps organizations achieve project goals efficiently while minimizing risks and cost overruns.

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

To thrive as a Project Control Engineer, you need strong analytical, scheduling, and cost control skills, typically supported by a degree in engineering or a related field. Proficiency with project management software such as Primavera P6, MS Project, and familiarity with Earned Value Management (EVM) systems and certifications like PMP are often required. Attention to detail, effective communication, and problem-solving abilities are essential soft skills for collaborating with diverse project teams and managing changes. These competencies are vital for ensuring projects are delivered on time, within budget, and to the required quality standards.

How does a project control engineer typically collaborate with project managers and other team members throughout a project lifecycle?

Project Control Engineers work closely with project managers, schedulers, and cost estimators to ensure that projects stay on track regarding timelines and budgets. They regularly participate in progress meetings, provide status updates, and use specialized software to track project performance. Effective communication and coordination are essential, as they must integrate input from various departments, including engineering, procurement, and construction. This collaborative approach helps identify potential risks early and implement corrective actions, contributing to the overall success of the project.

What is the difference between Project Control Engineer vs Cost Engineer?

AspectProject Control EngineerCost Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's in Engineering, PMP or similar certifications often preferredBachelor's in Engineering, Construction Management, or Finance; certifications like AACE International's CCP are common
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, project offices, engineering firmsConstruction companies, consulting firms, project management offices
Industry UsageUsed across construction, engineering, and infrastructure projectsPrimarily in construction, manufacturing, and large-scale engineering projects
Primary FocusProject scheduling, progress tracking, resource managementCost estimation, budgeting, cost control, financial analysis

The Project Control Engineer and Cost Engineer roles often overlap in project management but differ mainly in focus. The Project Control Engineer emphasizes scheduling and resource management, while the Cost Engineer concentrates on budgeting and financial oversight. Both roles are essential for successful project delivery and often collaborate closely within construction and engineering projects.

How much do project control engineers make in the US?

Project control engineers in the US typically earn a median annual salary of around $80,000 to $100,000, depending on experience, location, and industry. Salaries can increase with certifications such as PMP or Primavera, and those working in large infrastructure or energy projects may earn higher wages.

Is project control engineer a good career?

A project control engineer is a valuable role in industries like construction and engineering, focusing on project scheduling, cost control, and risk management. It requires strong analytical skills, proficiency with tools like Primavera or MS Project, and often involves collaboration with project teams. The career can offer growth opportunities and stability with relevant certifications and experience.

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

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

What are popular job titles related to Project Control Engineer jobs in Illinois?

For Project Control Engineer jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Project Control Engineer job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 24% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $103,781 per year, or $49.9 per hour.

Substation Protection & Control Engineer 2

Lisle, IL • On-site

GAI Consultants
Civil Engineering Construction • 501 - 1,000 employees

$97K - $123K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 12 days ago


GAI Consultants rating

9.6

Company rating: 9.6 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

GAI Consultants is seeking an Engineer 2 (Protection & Controls) for substation-related work. This position will perform substation and protection and controls design, technical guidance/training/mentoring of staff, design reviews, QA/QC review, and enforcement related to all aspects of protection & controls design services. The successful candidate will work on various protection and control engineering projects including detailed design for high voltage substation projects through 500kV, with a focus on a “Client First” approach to all interactions. #INDHP

Job Duties:   

  • Manage, design, and perform QA/QC checks related to technical activities including, but not limited to, the following: 
  • Development of and/or revisions to existing drawings for one-lines, physical arrangement, grounding, schematics and wiring, control and relaying panels and equipment wiring including coordinating with CAD operators to develop organized quality CAD drawings.
  • Integrate protection and control drawings to interface with the physical layout and design of substations.
  • Design of interfacing with SCADA systems and communications including RTUs, HMIs, and IEDs.
  • Development of control and relay panel layouts including assembling the specifications.
  • Creation of project criteria.
  • Development of design specifications including the overall bill of materials.
  • Design and sizing of auxiliary systems including AC/DC load centers as well as batteries and chargers.
  • Design and sizing of conduit, cable, and backup generators.
  • Ordering long-lead item materials.
  • Point to Point checks.
  • Review junior engineer’s designs, verify they meet client standards and specifications, and identify gaps in client’s protection.
  • Document QAQC reviews, maintain record documents, and communicate information to the team.
  • Traveling to other offices and meeting with clients and attending project-specific meetings on a regular basis.
  • Managing tasks on multiple projects in accordance with GAI’s high standards of project management.
  • Managing and assisting with the development of the scope of services and cost estimates for Substation and P&C projects.
  • Ability to manage competing priorities using sound engineering and financial judgment to determine optimal solutions.
  • Must be flexible to handle shifting deadlines and scope changes.
  • Must have resource management skills and the ability to identify project barriers and mitigate them without schedule impacts. 
  • Must be able to manage and prioritize multiple projects simultaneously and be able to work effectively under the pressure of deadlines and unexpected developments.
  • Ability to work extended hours or after hours when required. 

General Characteristics

  • Applies broad knowledge of principles and practices in a specific practice area. 
  • Independently evaluates, selects, and adapts standard techniques, procedures, and criteria. 
  • Leads tasks and projects of moderately complex scopes.
  • Develops plans, specifications, and other project documents.
  • Selects appropriate principles of engineering economics, and probability and statistics to analyze risk in a complex engineering problem.

Minimum Years of Experience

  • 6+ Years of Experience

Education

  • B.S. or M.S. Engineering  

Certification/Licensure

  • Professional Engineer (P.E.) License

Technical Responsibilities

  • Designs a complete project, system, component, or process. 
  • Prepares complete plans, specifications, and other project documents. 
  • Designs and conducts analyses and interprets test data.
  • Begins to develop and reviews complete project documents for conformity and quality assurance.
  • Project and Task Management
  • Assigns tasks to other technical and non-technical staff. 
  • Plans and coordinates detailed aspects of the engineering work. 
  • Prepares scopes, budgets, and schedules for assignments. 
  • Assists with proposals to provide professional services or obtain funding for engineering projects or projects.

Management Responsibility

  • Receives general direction on key objectives. Receives guidance on unconventional/complex problems, direction on modified techniques, and new approaches on assignments with conflicting criteria. 
  • Mentors junior staff by providing guidance, explaining professional responsibilities, and reviewing work products. 
  • Attends project meetings and presents specific aspects of engineering assignments.

Communication Skills

  • Communicates effectively to both technical and nontechnical audiences.

Why GAI? 

At GAI, exceptional people have an exceptional place to work, grow, lead, and achieve. Explore an array of opportunities in locations across the U.S. and join accomplished colleagues in tackling challenging projects for a range of markets. Enjoy comprehensive benefits and feel good about being part of a collaborative team that’s committed to supporting the communities we serve. Join GAI and distinguish yourself in a company poised for unlimited growth.

Benefits To Working at GAI Include: 

  • Competitive salary -GAI is committed to paying market-based salaries
  • Comprehensive benefits package including medical, vision, dental, company paid Long Term Disability, and Short-Term Disability (benefits start within 30 days of hire) 
  • New paid Maternity/Paternity/Adoption program  
  • Generous Paid Time Off and 7 paid holidays
  • 401k company match
  • Tuition Reimbursement

What GAI Consultants employees say

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Benefits

Hours and flexibility

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About GAI Consultants

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

GAI Consultants is an employee-owned corporation offering comprehensive engineering, planning, and environmental consulting services to diverse industry sectors, located in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, in the United States. The company operates in the field of engineering consulting and provides sustainable and economically-viable solutions to clients ranging from bridge design, community planning, to industrial facilities, ecological studies, and more. GAI Consultants was founded in 1958 and, over more than six decades, has grown significantly with a strong commitment to advancing clients' projects and contributing to community development. The firm operates on the core values of integrity, client satisfaction, quality, and workforce development, all of which raises the bar on client service and project excellence, ultimately contributing to the company’s mission, which is 'to create and deliver superior, innovative consulting solutions that enrich the lives of our people and enhance the world we live in.'

Industry

Civil engineering construction

Company size

501 - 1,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Pittsburgh, PA, US

Year founded

1958

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