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Scientific Instrumentation Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

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Scientific Instrumentation information

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$14

$27

$74

How much do scientific instrumentation jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for scientific instrumentation in Illinois is $27.90, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.05 and $28.41 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is scientific instrumentation?

Scientific instrumentation refers to the design, development, and use of devices and equipment that measure, analyze, or control physical, chemical, or biological processes in scientific research and industrial applications. These instruments include spectrometers, microscopes, chromatographs, and sensors, among others. Professionals in this field work on ensuring accuracy, precision, and reliability of measurements, often collaborating with scientists and engineers. Their expertise is crucial in laboratories, manufacturing, healthcare, and environmental monitoring, enabling advances in research and technology.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in scientific instrumentation?

To thrive in Scientific Instrumentation, a strong background in physics, engineering, or a related scientific field, along with hands-on experience in instrument design and troubleshooting, is essential. Familiarity with CAD software, laboratory information management systems (LIMS), and certifications such as ISO 17025 are typically required. Critical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication are standout soft skills for this role. These competencies ensure the accuracy, reliability, and innovation necessary for developing and maintaining complex scientific equipment in research and industry settings.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in scientific instrumentation, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in scientific instrumentation often encounter challenges such as troubleshooting complex equipment malfunctions, staying current with rapidly evolving technologies, and ensuring precise calibration for accurate results. Addressing these challenges typically involves continuous training, collaborating closely with research scientists and engineers, and maintaining detailed documentation. Developing strong problem-solving skills and leveraging manufacturer support networks can also help professionals efficiently resolve technical issues and keep instruments running optimally.

What is the difference between Scientific Instrumentation vs Laboratory Technician?

AspectScientific InstrumentationLaboratory Technician
Required CredentialsTechnical degrees, certifications in instrumentation or engineeringAssociate's or bachelor's degree in science or related field
Work EnvironmentManufacturing, R&D labs, technical serviceResearch labs, clinical, educational institutions
Employer & Industry UsageInstrument manufacturers, research institutionsHospitals, universities, research facilities
Common Search & ComparisonTechnical roles in instrumentationLab support roles

Scientific Instrumentation involves designing, maintaining, and repairing complex scientific devices, often requiring specialized technical certifications. Laboratory Technicians perform routine testing and support research activities in lab settings. While both work in scientific environments, Scientific Instrumentation focuses on technical expertise with equipment, whereas Laboratory Technicians handle sample processing and data collection.

Infographic showing various Scientific Instrumentation job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 74% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 23% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $58,033 per year, or $27.9 per hour.

Senior Instrumentation & Controls Engineer

Chicago, IL • Hybrid


Sargent & Lundy
Civil Engineering Construction • 1 - 5K employees

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 10 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

123rd of 450 rated engineering

Great coworkers

People enjoy working here

Good employer


$100K - $152K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 15 days ago


Job description

Description

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

  • This position will offer you the opportunity to utilize and expand your academic background in Instrumentation and Controls Engineering.
  • You will work on project teams with other I&C engineers involved in the design of new power plants, modifications to existing power generation facilities, and plant controls betterment.
  • You will be involved in power distribution designs and the preparation of specifications for the procurement of instrumentation and controls equipment and related installation services.
  • As a member of a multi-discipline project team, you will be involved in power plant design coordination, engineering calculation preparation, and electrical control circuit design.
  • Through mentoring, classroom-style technical sessions, and on-the-job training, you will increase your knowledge and skills in your engineering discipline.
  • There is the potential for you to travel to client and vendor offices for design reviews and to plant site locations for construction coordination and field verification of designs. 
  • Develop your career via peer-learning by way of S&L's systems of process and associated "Communities of Practice."
Qualifications

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

Essential skills and experience:

  • A BS in Electrical Engineering from an accredited engineering program is required. An emphasis in power systems is preferred.
  • PE license or ability to earn a PE license is required.
  • 9+ years of relevant power plant and heavy industrial control systems experience.
  • Power or industrial controls experience.
  • An understanding of the practical application of instrumentation and controls engineering and technology including applying systems, principles, techniques, and procedures to a project design.
  • Experience reading and creating logic diagrams and control narratives.
  • Knowledge of design techniques, tools, and principles involved in the production of technical plans, drawings, and models.
  • Proficiency with MS Office applications, with emphasis on MS Excel and Access.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
  • Effective experience working in a collaborative team environment.
  • Exceptional work habits.
  • Resourceful and enthusiastic attitude.

Valued but not required skills and experience:

  • Experience with DCS, TCS, and/or PLCs programming.
  • Experience performing field work (i.e. control system upgrades, commission, start-up).
AI & Automation at Sargent & Lundy

In this role, we expect people to be willing or able to lead others who use modern tools:

  • You are expected to lead others in taking engineering problems from issue to solution by setting expectations for using data and modern tools such as automation and AI to improve workflows, reduce rework, and deliver cost-effective designs.
  • Leaders in these roles often direct automation and process-improvement work, for example, how teams automate calculations, summarize technical documents, or generate design documentation and guiding when and how AI or agentic AI tools are used while ensuring results are checked.
  • Overseeing engineers who program or script (e.g., Python, MATLAB, advanced Excel) to automate engineering tasks, with review of automated outputs, is valued but not required.
  • We also value additional learning, such as a minor, certificate, or other experience in Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence, Software Engineering, or related fields that enables effective oversight of automation and agentic AI-enabled engineering workflows.
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$100,019 - $152,807Transparency 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.About This Business Unit

The Energy & Industrial Group (EIG) specializes in delivering advanced engineering solutions across various sectors, including power generation, environmental compliance, oil & gas, and industrial projects, from new plant design to plant betterment and upgrade services for operating facilities. We have designed nearly 900 conventional power plants, yielding over 100,000 megawatts (MW) of generation capacity. Our expertise includes numerous recent and ongoing combined cycle projects that leverage the latest advanced machinery, including combustion turbines, steam turbines, and heat recovery steam generators from all leading suppliers. EIG is recognized for its commitment to decarbonization through innovative technologies in renewable energy, carbon capture, and hydrogen power. We excel in detailed engineering services for photovoltaic (PV) solar projects and energy storage integration, and lead the industry in carbon capture technologies, managing projects from conceptual studies, pilot demonstrations and through commercial scale implementation for utilities and industrial plants.

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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