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2026 Salary Data • Updated June 2026
Direct Market Data

PLC Programmer Salary in Chicago, Illinois

Chicago has very high demand for PLC Programmer positions, driven by its very high automation industry presence. The city's Aerospace sector is particularly active in hiring automation professionals, and Chicago is recognized as a major technology and automation hub.

Average Salary
$129,496
per year
Salary Range
$87,723 - $175,446
Entry to Senior
Cost of Living
98
vs Global Average (100)
Job Demand
very high
Industry Strength
very high
Currency
USD
Data Quality
high

Salary Breakdown by Experience Level

Experience LevelYears of ExperienceAverage Salary (USD)Salary Range (USD)
Entry Level
0-2 years$87,723$78,951 - $96,495
Mid Level
3-7 years$125,319$112,787 - $137,851
Senior Level
8+ years$175,446$157,901 - $192,991

Salary data is based on actual market surveys and job postings from this city. Sources: Calculated from national average with regional adjustments.

Cost of Living in Chicago

Chicago has a cost of living that is 2% lower than the global average. Average rent is approximately $1,800 per month. The purchasing power index is 101, indicating strong local purchasing power.

Cost of Living Index
98
Purchasing Power
101
Average Rent
$1,800/mo

Major PLC Employers in Chicago

Boeing

Abbott Laboratories

Baxter International

Caterpillar

Navistar

Ingredion

Dominant PLC Brands

The most commonly used PLC platforms in Chicago:

1
Allen-Bradley
2
Siemens
3
Schneider Electric

Preferred Certifications

Certifications valued by employers in Chicago:

Allen-Bradley
Rockwell Automation
Siemens TIA Portal

Key Industry Sectors in Chicago

Chicago has a strong presence in the following industrial sectors that utilize PLC programming and automation:

Aerospace
Pharmaceuticals
Food Processing
Manufacturing

Compare with Similar Cities

Compare PLC Programmer salaries in Chicago with similar cities:

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the average PLC Programmer salary in Chicago?

The average PLC Programmer salary in Chicago is $129,496 per year. Entry-level positions start around $87,723, while senior professionals can earn $175,446 or more.

Which companies hire PLC Programmers in Chicago?

Major employers in Chicago include Boeing, Abbott Laboratories, Baxter International, and many others. The Aerospace sector is particularly active in hiring automation professionals.

What PLC brands are most common in Chicago?

The dominant PLC brands in Chicago are Allen-Bradley, Siemens, Schneider Electric. Having certifications in Allen-Bradley is particularly valuable for professionals in this market.

How does the cost of living affect salary in Chicago?

Chicago has a cost of living that is 2% lower than the global average. Average rent is approximately $1,800 per month. The purchasing power index is 101, indicating strong local purchasing power. This cost of living adjustment is reflected in the salary ranges shown above.

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