As of March 01, 2026, the average salary for a Project Controls Manager in Chicago, IL is $157,029 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $75.
However, a Project Controls Manager's salary can vary significantly. Here’s a look at the typical salary range:
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A Project Controls Manager's salary isn't a fixed number. It's shaped by several important factors. Below, we'll explore how your years of experience, geographic location, skills and company size can directly affect your earning potential.
Experience is a primary driver of a Project Controls Manager's salary. As you build your skills and take on more complex tasks, your compensation generally increases. Here's how the average salary grows at different career stages:
| Job Role | Years of Experience | Average Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Cost Engineer IV | 7+ years | $136,221 |
| Cost Engineer V | 7-10 years | $160,516 |
| Project Cost Control Team Leader | 10+ years | $120,007 |
| Project Controls Manager | 10+ years | $157,029 |
| Project Controls Senior Manager | 10+ years | $184,172 |
What Am I Worth?
Demanded Skills for the Role:
| Skills | Demand Percentage |
|---|---|
| Scheduling | 8.25% |
| Accounting | 1.83% |
| Microsoft Office | 1.06% |
| Skill | Salary | Salary % Increase |
|---|---|---|
|
Budget Management
|
$168,021 |
7%
|
|
Project Delivery
|
$163,310 |
4%
|
|
Microsoft Project
|
$163,310 |
4%
|
|
Program Management
|
$163,310 |
4%
|
|
Alignment
|
$163,310 |
4%
|
|
Consulting
|
$163,310 |
4%
|
Understanding how a Project Controls Manager's annual salary breaks down can help with budgeting. Below, you can see the average hourly rate, weekly pay, and monthly pay for this role. Use the buttons to switch between different pay periods.
Last Updated on March 01, 2026Promotions are the fastest way to increase your earnings. As a Project Controls Manager, you have the following paths for advancement. The table below compares the salary raises for common next-step roles. By comparing these figures, you can choose the career path that best meets your financial goals.
| Next Step Role | Estimate Salary | Projected Raise |
|---|---|---|
| Manufacturing Project Management Senior Manager | $157,121 | 0% |
| Engineering Program Management Senior Manager | $183,674 | 17% |
| Project Management Director | $176,942 | 13% |
| Project Controls Senior Manager | $184,172 | 17% |
Ready to take the next step in your career? Browse thousands of current Project Controls Manager job openings on our job board. Use the search bar below to find your perfect match.
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