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Smart Contract Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Automation Expert Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$114K - $160K/yr

Introduce smart manufacturing, data analytics, and Industry 4.0 technologies to maximize efficiency ... Skilled in vendor management, contract negotiation, and equipment specification. * Excellent ...

Head of Engineering

Chicago, IL · On-site

$220K - $275K/yr

Mentor every engineer on the team, from senior to junior, leveling people up rather than just ... Stablecoin or blockchain infrastructure experience (Solana programs, EVM smart contracts, on-chain ...

Senior Software Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site +1

$180K - $200K/yr

... smart coverage, and responsive service. Backed by over $200M from world-class investors, Vouch ... Design APIs, event flows, and service contracts that let agents and human workflows interact with ...

Principal Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$245K - $285K/yr

... smart coverage, and responsive service. Backed by over $200M from world-class investors, Vouch ... Durable multi-week agent workflows with human approval gates, tool contracts and capability ...

AI Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$180K - $220K/yr

... smart coverage, and responsive service. Backed by over $200M from world-class investors, Vouch ... Design tool contracts, capability boundaries, and approval gates for an agent doing real insurance ...

Showing results 21-40

Smart Contract Engineer information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$39.1K

$119.4K

$197.3K

How much do smart contract engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for smart contract engineer in Chicago, IL is $119,357.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $85,500.00 and $156,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a smart contract engineer?

A Smart Contract Engineer is a software developer who specializes in designing, developing, testing, and deploying smart contracts on blockchain platforms such as Ethereum. These professionals write code—often in languages like Solidity or Vyper—that runs autonomously on the blockchain and governs transactions or agreements without the need for intermediaries. They also focus on security, auditing, and optimizing smart contract performance to prevent vulnerabilities. Smart Contract Engineers typically collaborate with blockchain architects, front-end developers, and project managers to build decentralized applications (dApps).

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a smart contract engineer?

To thrive as a Smart Contract Engineer, you need strong proficiency in blockchain fundamentals, programming languages like Solidity or Vyper, and a solid understanding of cryptographic principles, usually backed by a degree in computer science or related experience. Familiarity with blockchain development frameworks (e.g., Truffle, Hardhat), version control (Git), and security auditing tools is essential. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for this role. These skills ensure the development of secure, efficient, and reliable smart contracts that underpin decentralized applications and financial systems.

What are some common challenges smart contract engineers face when ensuring contract security?

Smart Contract Engineers often encounter challenges related to identifying and mitigating vulnerabilities such as reentrancy attacks, integer overflows, and unauthorized access. Since smart contracts are immutable once deployed, engineers must rigorously test and audit their code to prevent costly errors or exploits. Collaborating with auditors, using established security frameworks, and staying updated on the latest security threats are essential practices to maintain robust and secure smart contracts.

What is the difference between Smart Contract Engineer vs Blockchain Developer?

AspectSmart Contract EngineerBlockchain Developer
CredentialsKnowledge of blockchain platforms, Solidity, cryptographyBroader programming skills, blockchain fundamentals
Work EnvironmentFocus on smart contract coding, testing, deploymentDeveloping blockchain applications, protocols
Industry UsagePrimarily in DeFi, NFT, and dApp projectsWide range including wallets, exchanges, dApps
Search IntentComparing smart contract roles, coding specificsBroader blockchain development roles

While both roles work within the blockchain industry, a Smart Contract Engineer specializes in designing, coding, and deploying smart contracts on blockchain platforms. A Blockchain Developer has a broader scope, including developing entire blockchain applications and protocols. The Smart Contract Engineer's focus is more technical and contract-specific, whereas the Blockchain Developer's role encompasses a wider range of blockchain solutions.

How to become a smart contract engineer?

A smart contract engineer develops and deploys blockchain-based contracts, requiring knowledge of blockchain platforms like Ethereum, programming languages such as Solidity or Vyper, and understanding of cryptography and decentralized systems. Gaining experience through coding projects, online courses, and certifications can help build relevant skills. Familiarity with development tools like Remix, Truffle, or Hardhat is also beneficial.

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

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

What job categories do people searching Smart Contract Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Smart Contract Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Smart Contract Engineer jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Smart Contract Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Smart Contract Engineer job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 85% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $119,357 per year, or $57.4 per hour.

Automation Expert Engineer

Ferrara

Chicago, IL • On-site

$114K - $160K/yr

Full-time

Medical, PTO

Re-posted 14 days ago


Ferrara Candy rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 14 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

109th of 443 rated food and drinks producers


Job description

Work Location: Chicago
Due to the highly interactive and team-based nature of this role, in-person attendance for most of the workweek (i.e., 3 days or more), is essential for effective communication including in-person meetings, strong supervision, and real-time problem-solving and participation in cross-functional initiatives. This role requires on-site work in a manufacturing environment.
Join us at a defining moment.
We're building the largest food manufacturing facility in our network, a bold investment that will set new standards for scale, technology, and efficiency. This is a rare opportunity to play a critical role to build a site from the ground up, shaping the people strategy, culture, and operations that will power our future.
We're looking for a builder. Someone who thrives in fast-moving, ambiguous environments and brings an entrepreneurial mindset. This role requires agility, curiosity, and a hands-on approach. You'll be solving problems in real time, building processes from scratch, and creating a high-performing, engaged workforce from day one. If you're driven by impact, ownership, and results, this is your chance to leave a lasting mark.
Want to make an impact?
Step into a career-defining role where your expertise will shape the automation backbone of a state-of-the-art manufacturing facility for a global leader in sugar confections. As the Automation Expert Engineer, you'll design, implement, and optimize the advanced control systems that power efficiency, reliability, and scalability across our new flagship site. By leading automation strategy from concept through commissioning, you'll help set the standard for innovation and operational excellence in the fast-moving consumer goods industry.
This role with report to the Sr. Director, Process Engineering and will be based at our Corporate Headquarters in downtown Chicago, IL. Expected travel will be up to 50%.
Ways you will make a difference
  • Design the future of automation: Lead specification, design, and implementation of plant-wide automation systems, including PLCs, HMIs, SCADA, robotics, and advanced controls.
  • Enable seamless integration: Ensure packaging, process, and utility systems are fully connected, reliable, and optimized for high-speed production.
  • Champion digital transformation: Introduce smart manufacturing, data analytics, and Industry 4.0 technologies to maximize efficiency and visibility.
  • Deliver results: Manage project budgets, schedules, and vendor relationships to ensure automation systems are delivered on time, on budget, and to spec.
  • Lead commissioning: Oversee testing, startup, and operator training to ensure flawless handover of systems into production.
  • Drive reliability: Develop standards, documentation, and preventive maintenance strategies to ensure long-term system uptime and compliance.
  • Partner for success: Collaborate across Engineering, IT, Operations, and Quality to align automation solutions with business and regulatory needs.
  • Foster innovation: Continuously evaluate new technologies to keep the facility ahead of the curve in performance and sustainability.

Skills that will make you successful
  • Strong technical expertise in automation, controls, robotics, and industrial IT systems.
  • Proven leadership in managing large-scale automation projects within manufacturing environments.
  • Skilled in vendor management, contract negotiation, and equipment specification.
  • Excellent problem-solving skills with a focus on root cause and continuous improvement.
  • Ability to communicate complex technical concepts clearly across functions and levels.
  • Proficiency with PLC programming, HMI/SCADA platforms, and industrial networking.
  • Passion for innovation, operational excellence, and sustainable manufacturing.

Experiences that will support your success
  • Bachelor's degree in Electrical, Controls, Automation, or related Engineering discipline (Master's preferred).
  • 10+ years of automation engineering experience in manufacturing, ideally FMCG, food & beverage, or CPG industries.
  • Track record of leading automation design, integration, and commissioning for large-scale capital projects.
  • Hands-on experience with robotics, motion control, and smart manufacturing technologies.
  • Experience developing and managing automation standards and best practices.
  • Familiarity with cybersecurity, data integrity, and IT/OT convergence in manufacturing.
  • Leadership experience managing cross-functional teams and external system integrators.

What We Offer
At Ferrara, we're proud to support our employees with comprehensive benefits that enhance health, financial wellness, and include paid time off (PTO). Eligible employees may also receive an annual bonus based on company performance. Learn more about our benefits at https://flimp.live/Ferrara-Benefits-Resource-Center
Compensation
The salary range for this role is $114,450 to $160,230 annually.
EQUAL OPPORTUNITY
We are proud to be an equal opportunity employer. In order to provide equal employment and advancement opportunities to all qualified applicants and employees, employment decisions and opportunities at Ferrara will be based on merit, qualifications, and abilities, without regard to race, color, creed, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, marital or civil union status, national origin, ancestry, citizenship, age, military or veteran status, disability, handicap, genetic information, pregnancy (childbirth or related medical condition), or on any other basis prohibited by law. This policy governs all aspects of employment, including selection, job assignment, compensation, discipline, termination, and access to benefits and training.
Nearest Major Market: Chicago

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