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Scada Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Sr. Automation Engineer

South Holland, IL · On-site

$96K - $126K/yr

This is a senior-level role that combines hands-on PLC/SCADA programming, troubleshooting, project execution, and technical leadership. This position is ideal for someone who enjoys solving complex ...

Sr. Automation Engineer

South Holland, IL · On-site

$96K - $126K/yr

This is a senior-level role that combines hands-on PLC/SCADA programming, troubleshooting, project execution, and technical leadership. This position is ideal for someone who enjoys solving complex ...

Lead Electrical Engineer

Bridgeview, IL · On-site

$140K - $160K/yr

Lead Electrical Engineer Location: Bridgeview, IL Hire Type: Direct Hire Compensation: $140K-$160K ... Experience with PLCs, SCADA, industrial automation, and electrical troubleshooting. * Knowledge of ...

Showing results 21-40

Scada Engineer information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$58K

$107.6K

$176.5K

How much do scada engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for scada engineer in Chicago, IL is $107,634.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $86,219.00 and $127,789.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a SCADA engineer?

SCADA Engineers are professionals who design, implement, and maintain Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) systems used to monitor and control industrial processes. These systems are critical in industries such as utilities, manufacturing, oil and gas, and water treatment, allowing for real-time data collection and remote control of equipment. SCADA Engineers work with hardware, software, and network technologies to ensure reliable and secure operation of these systems. They also troubleshoot issues, optimize system performance, and may be involved in integrating new technologies or complying with cybersecurity standards.

What does a SCADA engineer do?

Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) systems help monitor and control operations and processes. As a SCADA engineer, your duties focus on designing, configuring, and deploying these systems in a manufacturing or other industrial environment. You configure existing systems and plan the deployment of devices, computers, and instruments that are a part of the SCADA system. A developer also performs maintenance and handles update responsibilities for software and hardware within the system. Engineers develop procedures for emergencies and help troubleshoot when issues arise. In most positions, you also analyze system performance and suggest or make improvements where applicable.

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

To thrive as a SCADA Engineer, you need a solid background in electrical or control engineering, automation systems, and strong analytical skills, typically supported by a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with SCADA software (such as Wonderware, GE iFIX, or Siemens WinCC), PLC programming, and industrial communication protocols is essential, and certifications like ISA or vendor-specific credentials are often beneficial. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication help SCADA Engineers collaborate with multidisciplinary teams and respond to system emergencies. These skills ensure reliable system monitoring, rapid troubleshooting, and secure, efficient industrial operations.

What are some common challenges a SCADA engineer may face when integrating new technologies into existing control systems?

A SCADA Engineer often encounters challenges such as ensuring compatibility between legacy equipment and modern software, minimizing system downtime during upgrades, and maintaining cybersecurity standards. Collaborating with IT, operations, and vendor teams is crucial to address configuration issues and test new integrations thoroughly before deployment. Effective documentation and a strong understanding of both hardware and software components can help smooth the integration process and support long-term system reliability.

What is the difference between Scada Engineer vs Control Systems Engineer?

AspectScada EngineerControl Systems Engineer
CertificationsPLC, SCADA, industrial automation certificationsPLC, DCS, automation certifications
Work EnvironmentIndustrial plants, manufacturing facilities, energy sectorsIndustrial, manufacturing, process control environments
Employer & Industry UsagePower, water, oil & gas, manufacturingProcess industries, automation firms, manufacturing

Both roles involve automation and control systems, but Scada Engineers focus specifically on designing and maintaining SCADA systems for real-time monitoring and control, while Control Systems Engineers work on broader control system design, including PLCs and DCS. The roles often overlap, especially in industries like energy and manufacturing, but Scada Engineers specialize in supervisory control and data acquisition systems.

Are SCADA engineers in demand?

SCADA engineers are in high demand due to the critical role they play in industrial automation, energy, manufacturing, and infrastructure sectors. The increasing adoption of IoT and automation technologies has expanded job opportunities, especially for those skilled in PLCs, HMI, and cybersecurity aspects of SCADA systems.

What are the most commonly searched types of Scada Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Scada Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What are popular job titles related to Scada Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Scada Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Scada Engineer job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 96% Full Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 84% In-person, 7% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $107,634 per year, or $51.7 per hour.

SCADA & Automation Engineer 2 - Grid

Sargent & Lundy

Chicago, IL • On-site

$66K - $94K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 14 days ago


Sargent & Lundy rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 10 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

122nd of 449 rated engineering


Job description

Description
SCADA & Automation Engineers design, program, and integrate SCADA systems for utility, industrial, and renewable clients. As a SCADA & Automation Engineer in our Grid business unit you will:
  • Engage in fast-paced client projects to plan, engineer, & design SCADA and communications systems.
  • Develop communication block diagrams, panel layout/bill of material drawings, SCADA AC & DC schematics, fiber detail drawings, & network drawings.
  • Provide reviews/design input of P&C drawings for SCADA system requirements.
  • Develop points lists for data transferred between RTUs, IEDs, and other SCADA systems.
  • Develop configurations for Remote Terminal Units (RTUs) - (SEL RTAC, Novatech Orion, and GE platforms, etc.)
  • Develop configurations for programmable automation controllers (PACs) - (SEL-2440/2411, etc.)
  • Program Human Machine Interface (HMI) applications (SEL Diagram Builder, Inkscape, Wonderware, etc.)
  • Coordinate with relay settings engineers to develop/review communication port settings for protection relays, meters, & other IEDs.
  • Develop network device configurations for switches, routers, & firewalls. (Cisco, Siemens Ruggedcomm, SEL, etc.)
  • Perform troubleshooting of SCADA system network & communication systems (DNP, Modbus, SEL Protocol, IEC 61850, TCP/IP, UDP) remotely and onsite (if required).
  • Develop SCADA system and Network documentation for projects.
  • Develop automation tools to improve project efficiency (python, etc.)
  • Stage, configure & test integrated systems designs, for interoperability & performance consistent with predictive models in our Protection, Automation & Telecommunication Laboratory.
  • Ensure strict adherence to NERC standards for Critical Infrastructure Protection (CIP).
  • Coordinate and provide guidance to other engineers, project managers, client personnel, and suppliers to ensure a complete and timely design.
  • Develop your career via peer-learning through sharing of knowledge with other experienced engineers by way of Sargent & Lundy's systems of process and associated "Communities of Practice."
  • There is the potential for you to travel to client and vendor offices as needed.

This role offers a hybrid work arrangement, with the expectation of spending three days a week in the office, giving you the flexibility to work remotely for two days.
Dependent upon your location, this opportunity offers a generous relocation package.
Qualifications
We do not sponsor employees for work authorization in the U.S. for this position.
Essential skills and experience:
  • This position requires a Bachelor of Science engineering degree with strong preference in an Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace or Chemical Engineering degree, and/or coursework including Coding, 3D Modeling/Design, and experience using agentic AI.
  • 1 or more years of applicable experience in design, configuration, implementation, and troubleshooting of substation SCADA and communication systems or a Master's degree.
  • An understanding of the practical application of electrical engineering and technology including applying systems, principles, techniques, and procedures to a project design.
  • Knowledge of design techniques, tools and principles involved in production of technical plans, blueprints, drawings, and models with the ability to visualize parts in 3D without the aid of a computer.
  • Proficiency with MS Office applications.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
  • Must be bilingual in Spanish and English (read, speak, and write).

Valued but not required skills and experience:
  • BSEE, MSEE, or equivalent degree from an ABET accredited engineering program.
  • Successful completion of the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam, and designation as an Engineer in Training.
  • Familiarity in designing or developing AI applications and/or agents.
  • Related engineering internship or co-op work experience.
  • Familiarity in designing or developing AI applications and/or agents.

AI & Automation at Sargent & Lundy
In this role, we expect people to be willing or able to solve problems using modern tools:
  • You are expected to take engineering problems from issue to solution using data and modern tools such as automation and AI to improve workflows, reduce rework, and deliver cost-effective designs.
  • Many engineers in these roles build or use automation to create calculations, summarize technical documents, or draft design documentation, including appropriate use of agentic AI tools, with strong engineering judgment and verification of results.
  • Programming or scripting (e.g., Python, MATLAB, advanced Excel) to automate calculations, design checks, reporting, or data transformation is valued but not required.
  • We also value additional learning, such as a minor, certificate, or other training in Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence, Software Engineering, or related fields that helps you apply automation or agentic AI to real engineering problems.

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
$66,000.00 - $94,810.00
Transparency Statement
Sargent & 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.

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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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