Automation Specialist Jobs in Illinois
Automation Specialist jobs in Illinois are among the most active in the Midwest, concentrated in manufacturing, food and beverage processing, pharmaceutical production, and utilities, with demand at every level from entry-level controls technician through senior systems engineer. The heaviest hiring clusters in Chicago, Rockford, and the Decatur-Peoria industrial corridor, where large employers like Caterpillar, Abbott Laboratories, and Kraft Heinz maintain deep operations and ongoing automation programs. PLC programming, SCADA integration, and robotics commissioning are the specialties drawing the most consistent demand from Illinois employers. Find a role that fits below and apply directly.
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Position Location: This role supports our Rolling Meadows, IL branch location, which serves customers throughout the greater Chicago, IL area.
Here at Siemens, we take pride in enabling sustainable progress through technology. We do this through empowering customers by combining the real and digital worlds. We are improving how we live, work, and move today and for the next generation! We know that the only way a business thrives is if our people are thriving. That’s why we always put our people first. Our global, diverse team would be happy to support you and challenge you to grow in new ways. Who knows where our shared journey will take you?
Our Smart Buildings help to create efficient, safe, adaptable, and responsible environments. Our aim isn’t just about improving buildings; it’s about creating perfect places that improve people’s lives.
Transform the everyday with us!
Our Systems Specialists participate in the installation, startup, and commissioning of building automation system equipment that has been newly installed and supports the verification of the system database and programming, ensuring consistency with the scope of work and sequence of operations. Our Systems Specialists are the face of Siemens, and your expertise and regular interaction with the customer will help them save energy and money, as well as create a more sustainable future for our environment.
As a Systems Specialist, you will:
- Commission new distributed digital control systems on construction sites within planned timelines. Documents commissioning details; communicates deficiencies and progress
- Plan work with Lead Technician, and Team Leader
- Network technologies: Assists with data back-up from data servers and the creation of automated back-up procedures. Supports troubleshooting and resolution of inconsistencies in the functions or sequence of operations. Assists with the set-up and configuration of PC workstations and user interfaces
- Support the confirmation of proper network performance
- Operational testing, verification, and acceptance: Runs routine reports to review system operation. Participates in final inspection and testing. Supports customer acceptance. Assists with customer training on system operations
- Complete and submit routine written reports. Provides plans and control system documents to engineering for as-built drawings
- Project site communication and coordination: May support others in the scheduling of trade contractors to coordinate startup services. Submits accurate time and expense reports
- Work overtime when needed (Compressed schedule performance can be a factor and will require extended hours to meet commitments)
- Work rotational on-call and/or minimal overnight travel
- Adhere to local, corporate, and OSHA safety policies and procedures. Ability to work in a team environment providing dedicated support to our customers
You will make an impact with these qualifications:
Basic Qualifications:
- 1+ years of experience installing and servicing electronic control or HVAC equipment
- Electro-mechanical experience (either in a previous role or through education) and user PC/software skill
- On-the-job experience reading, understanding, and interpreting design and construction documents
- Ability and willingness to work in a variety of circumstances including climbing ladders, scaffolds, and high lift equipment, working in ducts, crawl spaces, roofs, basements, above ceilings, and in various conditions
- Must be able and willing to use hand tools, laptop, email, smartphone, and tablet as well as carrying and moving equipment and tools weighing up to 75 pounds unassisted
- Experience with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, and Outlook)
- Ability and willingness to work overtime as needed
- Must be 18 years of age and possess a valid driver's license with limited violations; must meet eligibility requirements to participate in Siemens' fleet vehicle program
- Legally authorized to work in the United States on a continual and permanent basis without company sponsorship
Preferred Qualifications:
- High school diploma or state-recognized GED; Associate or Bachelor’s degree in electronics, mechanical engineering, or related
#LI-TAG #Central-EREF #VeteranCareers #TransitioningServiceMember #MilitarySpouse
Ready to create your own journey? Join us today!
About Siemens
We are a global technology company focused on industry, infrastructure, transport, and healthcare. From more resource-efficient factories, resilient supply chains, and smarter buildings and grids, to sustainable transportation as well as advanced healthcare, we create technology with purpose adding real value for customers.
Our Commitment to Equity and Inclusion in our Diverse Global Workforce
We value your unique identity and perspective. We are fully committed to providing equitable opportunities and building a workplace that reflects the diversity of society, while ensuring that we attract the best talent based on qualifications, skills, and experiences. We welcome you to bring your authentic self and transform the everyday with us.
Curious to see what a Building Automation Specialist does every day?
You’ll Benefit From
Siemens offers a variety of health and wellness benefits to our employees. Details regarding our benefits can be found here: https://www.benefitsquickstart.com/siemens/index.html
The pay range for this position is $54,121 - $92,779 annually. The actual wage offered may be lower or higher depending on budget and candidate experience, knowledge, skills, qualifications, and premium geographic location.
See All 18 Automation Specialist Jobs in Illinois
Find roles in Illinois that match your experience and apply in just a few clicks.
Find Automation Specialist JobsAutomation Specialist Jobs by City in Illinois
Where Illinois roles are concentrated, by current openings.
Automation Specialist Job Market in Illinois
A snapshot from current Illinois openings, updated as new roles post.
Who's Hiring



Top Industries Hiring
- Automotive
- Manufacturing
What Illinois Employers Look For
The qualifications that appear most often in automation specialist jobs across Illinois.
- Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering, mechatronics, or a closely related field
- Hands-on experience programming PLCs such as Allen-Bradley or Siemens platforms
- Proficiency with SCADA systems and industrial HMI configuration and maintenance
- Familiarity with robotics integration, servo systems, and motion control applications
- Understanding of process safety standards and industrial network protocols like Ethernet/IP
- Strong troubleshooting skills for automated production lines in manufacturing environments
Automation Specialist Jobs in Illinois: Frequently Asked Questions
How do you become an automation specialist in Illinois?
Most automation specialists in Illinois enter the field through a bachelor's degree in electrical engineering, mechatronics, or industrial technology, though associate degrees combined with strong hands-on PLC experience are accepted at many manufacturers. Illinois does not require a state-issued license for the automation specialist role itself, but electricians working on control panels may need an Illinois electrical license through the Illinois Department of Public Health. Earning vendor certifications from Rockwell Automation or Siemens strengthens a candidacy significantly with Illinois employers.
Which companies hire automation specialists in Illinois?
Employers hiring automation specialists in Illinois right now include Wesco, Siemens, and BD, based on current listings on Migrate Mate as of October 2026. Illinois's deep manufacturing base, from food processing in Decatur to pharmaceutical packaging in the Chicago suburbs, means large industrial employers keep consistent automation headcount year-round.
Which Illinois cities have the most automation specialist jobs?
Chicago, Normal, and Rolling Meadows have the most automation specialist openings in Illinois. Chicago drives volume through its concentration of corporate engineering headquarters and large distribution and packaging facilities, while Rockford's long-standing precision manufacturing sector and the Peoria-Decatur corridor's heavy industrial and agricultural equipment producers sustain steady demand outside the metro.
Are there remote automation specialist jobs in Illinois?
Yes, but they're rare. About 50% of automation specialist openings tied to Illinois are remote or hybrid as of October 2026, reflecting the hands-on nature of most automation work. The portions of the role most likely to be performed remotely are PLC program development, SCADA screen design, and documentation review, while commissioning, installation, and on-site troubleshooting require a physical presence.
How can I get hired as an automation specialist in Illinois with little or no experience?
The most realistic entry path is an associate degree or technical certificate in industrial automation or electrical technology from a community college like Triton College or Heartland Community College, which feeds directly into technician apprenticeships at Illinois manufacturers. Large employers such as Caterpillar and Abbott run structured technician development programs that accept candidates without full work histories. Moving laterally from a maintenance technician or electrical apprentice role is common, and earning a Rockwell Automation certification before applying gives a new candidate a concrete, verifiable edge.
Where can I find and apply to automation specialist jobs in Illinois?
You can find and apply to automation specialist jobs in Illinois on Migrate Mate, which lists current Illinois openings from employers actively hiring. Search the listings for roles that match your specialization and experience level, then apply directly to the ones that fit.
See All 18 Automation Specialist Jobs in Illinois
Find roles in Illinois that match your experience and apply in just a few clicks.
Find Automation Specialist Jobs