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

Motorola

Principal Systems Engineer

Schaumburg, IL

$130K - $170K/yr

System Engineering * Drive product and feature requirements, architecture, design, and test ... government contracts Additional preferred skills: * Experience with development of wireless ...

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All JobsSystems Engineer Contract JobsSystems Engineer Contract Jobs in Chicago, IL

Systems Engineer Contract information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$55.1K

$131.1K

$172K

How much do systems engineer contract jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for systems engineer contract in Chicago, IL is $131,050.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $101,000.00 and $161,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some typical responsibilities and challenges faced by a Systems Engineer under a contract position?

As a Systems Engineer working on a contract basis, your daily responsibilities usually include managing infrastructure deployments, configuring and maintaining servers, troubleshooting system issues, and optimizing network performance for client projects. You may face challenges such as quickly adapting to new environments, understanding legacy systems, or integrating new technologies with existing IT infrastructure. Contract roles often require working independently while effectively collaborating with internal IT teams, project managers, and other stakeholders. This environment provides valuable exposure to diverse industries and technical challenges, which can greatly enhance your experience and open avenues for future permanent or advanced contract opportunities.

What is a Systems Engineer Contract job?

A Systems Engineer Contract job is a temporary or project-based position where an engineer is responsible for designing, developing, and maintaining complex systems. These roles often involve working with hardware, software, networking, and security components to ensure system functionality and efficiency. Contract Systems Engineers may work for a specific duration or on a particular project for a company, typically through a consulting firm or as independent contractors. They are expected to collaborate with cross-functional teams, troubleshoot issues, and optimize system performance. The contract terms, duration, and scope of work can vary based on the employer's needs.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Systems Engineer Contract position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Systems Engineer Contract, you need a strong background in systems architecture, troubleshooting, and integration, typically supported by a degree in computer science or engineering. Familiarity with tools such as VMware, Linux/Windows server environments, cloud platforms (e.g., AWS, Azure), and relevant certifications like CompTIA, Cisco, or Microsoft are highly valued. Excellent problem-solving, time management, and communication skills set top candidates apart in contract roles where autonomy and collaboration are both crucial. These skills and attributes ensure efficient delivery, adaptability to different project requirements, and successful collaboration in dynamic technical environments.

What are the most commonly searched types of Systems Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Systems Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What are popular job titles related to Systems Engineer Contract jobs in Chicago, IL? For Systems Engineer Contract jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Systems Engineer Contract jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Systems Engineer Contract jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Systems Engineer Contract jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Systems Engineer Contract job openings:
Systems Engineer Contract jobs near you
Infographic showing various Systems Engineer Contract job openings in Chicago, IL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $131,050 per year, or $63 per hour.

Manufacturing Engineer (Contract)

Sterling Engineering Inc.

Buffalo Grove, IL

$50 - $65/hr

Full-time

Posted 2 days ago

New

Job description

Manufacturing Engineer
Location: Buffalo Grove, IL
Hire Type: Contract
Compensation: $50.00–$65.00/hour (Based on Experience)
Schedule: Full-Time | 100% Onsite
Position Overview
We are seeking a hands-on Manufacturing Engineer to support a highly automated medical device manufacturing operation in Buffalo Grove, IL. This contract opportunity will focus on maintaining and improving high-speed automated packaging and assembly equipment while supporting production reliability and continuous improvement initiatives.
The ideal candidate will possess a strong mechanical engineering background with the ability to troubleshoot complex automation equipment, identify root causes of recurring equipment failures, and develop clear technical documentation and work instructions. Candidates with exposure to controls systems, PCB troubleshooting, and automated manufacturing equipment are highly desirable.
This position supports the final manufacturing operation before product distribution, making it a critical role in ensuring equipment reliability, production efficiency, and product quality.
Key Responsibilities
Troubleshoot and repair high-speed automated manufacturing equipment with a primary focus on mechanical systems.
Diagnose recurring equipment issues and perform root cause analysis to implement permanent corrective actions.
Develop, update, and maintain technical work instructions, equipment documentation, and standard operating procedures.
Support production by resolving mechanical, automation, and basic electrical issues to minimize downtime.
Collaborate with Manufacturing, Reliability, Controls, Quality, and Production teams to improve equipment performance.
Assist with continuous improvement initiatives focused on equipment reliability, efficiency, and uptime.
Support automated equipment utilizing drive motors, cam-driven mechanisms, vision inspection systems, and serialized product tracking.
Assist with troubleshooting PCB-related hardware and controls issues when necessary.
Participate in equipment improvement projects and provide engineering support across multiple manufacturing initiatives.
Ensure all work is performed in compliance with safety, quality, and regulatory requirements.

Required Qualifications
Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or a related technical discipline, or equivalent hands-on experience.
Experience troubleshooting and supporting high-speed automated manufacturing equipment.
Strong mechanical aptitude with experience repairing automated machinery and understanding mechanical drive systems.
Experience performing root cause analysis (RCA) and implementing corrective actions to improve equipment reliability.
Ability to create and maintain technical documentation, work instructions, and equipment procedures.
Basic electrical troubleshooting skills.
Experience working in either the medical device, food, or other highly regulated manufacturing industries.
Strong communication skills with the ability to work cross-functionally in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.
Preferred Qualifications
Experience with PLC-controlled automation systems.
Familiarity with PCB hardware or controls troubleshooting.
Experience supporting machine vision systems and serialized manufacturing processes.
Knowledge of Lean Manufacturing, Continuous Improvement, or TPM methodologies.
Experience supporting highly automated production or packaging equipment.
Ideal Candidate
The successful candidate is a hands-on manufacturing engineer who enjoys solving complex equipment problems on the production floor. They possess strong mechanical troubleshooting skills, can effectively identify and eliminate recurring equipment failures, and are comfortable developing technical documentation while supporting a fast-paced, highly automated manufacturing environment. Experience in medical device or food manufacturing is strongly preferred due to the regulated nature of the operation.