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Apprentice Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Stage Management Apprentice

Chicago, IL

$18.75/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Stage Management Apprentice REPORTS TO: Production Manager & Head of Stage Management FLSA STATUS ... programming and community engagement. The theater's artistic priorities include new play ...

Manufacturing Apprentice

Elmhurst, IL

$17 - $22/hr

Overview As a Semblex Apprentice, you will join and complete the Semblex Apprenticeship Program. This program is designed for unskilled yet highly motivated and hardworking individuals, who desire to ...

Manufacturing Apprentice

Elmhurst, IL · On-site

$17 - $22/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • PTO

Overview As a Semblex Apprentice, you will join and complete the Semblex Apprenticeship Program. This program is designed for unskilled yet highly motivated and hardworking individuals, who desire to ...

Manufacturing Apprentice

Elmhurst, IL

$17 - $22/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • PTO

Overview As a Semblex Apprentice, you will join and complete the Semblex Apprenticeship Program. This program is designed for unskilled yet highly motivated and hardworking individuals, who desire to ...

Aftermarket Apprentice Program (AAP) The purpose of the apprentice program is to provide an opportunity for selected applicants to combine work experience, on-the-job training, and classroom ...

Aftermarket Apprentice Program (AAP) The purpose of the apprentice program is to provide an opportunity for selected applicants to combine work experience, on-the-job training, and classroom ...

Mechanical Apprentice

Naperville, IL · On-site

$26.52/hr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

  • PTO

This Mechanic Apprenticeship will ensure the efficient and reliable operation of high-speed processing and packaging equipment. This includes troubleshooting, analyzing root causes, supporting ...

Showing results 21-40

Apprentice Engineer information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$12

$22

$38

How much do apprentice engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for apprentice engineer in Chicago, IL is $22.69, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.84 and $24.76 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an apprentice engineer?

Apprentice Engineers are individuals who are undergoing practical training while working towards becoming fully qualified engineers. They typically combine on-the-job learning with classroom study, gaining hands-on experience under the supervision of experienced engineers. Apprentice Engineers can work in various engineering fields, such as mechanical, electrical, or civil engineering. This role helps them develop technical skills, industry knowledge, and professional competencies needed for a successful engineering career.

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as an apprentice engineer?

To thrive as an Apprentice Engineer, you need a foundational understanding of engineering principles, basic math and science skills, and a relevant high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with CAD software, engineering drawing tools, and sometimes basic programming or industry-specific certifications is often expected. Strong problem-solving abilities, eagerness to learn, teamwork, and clear communication help apprentices stand out. These skills and qualities are vital for effective learning, adapting to technical challenges, and contributing to engineering projects.

What are some common challenges apprentice engineers face during their training period?

Apprentice Engineers often encounter challenges such as adapting to fast-paced work environments, balancing hands-on tasks with theoretical learning, and becoming proficient with new technologies or industry-specific tools. Another common hurdle is mastering communication and teamwork, as apprentices frequently collaborate with experienced engineers and other departments. However, these challenges are also valuable learning opportunities that build technical expertise and professional confidence, preparing apprentices for more advanced roles within the organization.

What is the difference between Apprentice Engineer vs Junior Engineer?

AspectApprentice EngineerJunior Engineer
Required CredentialsTypically a diploma or vocational training, on-the-job learningBachelor's degree in engineering or related field
Work EnvironmentTraining sites, entry-level tasks, supervisedOperational roles, project work, more independence
Employer & Industry UsageApprenticeships in manufacturing, construction, power plantsEngineering firms, manufacturing, infrastructure projects
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

The main difference between an Apprentice Engineer and a Junior Engineer lies in experience and training. Apprentice Engineers are in the early stages of their careers, focusing on learning and skill development through on-the-job training. Junior Engineers typically have completed their formal education and are responsible for more independent tasks and project work. Both roles are essential in engineering industries, but the Apprentice Engineer role emphasizes training, while the Junior Engineer role involves more active participation in engineering projects.

What are the most commonly searched types of Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL are:

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

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

Infographic showing various Apprentice Engineer job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, and 6% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $47,187 per year, or $22.7 per hour.

Tool and Die Maker Apprentice

OTTO Engineering

Carpentersville, IL

$18/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 11 days ago


Job description

Tool and Die Maker Apprentice

Why join OTTO Engineering?

  • At OTTO, we don't just manufacture products - we engineer mission-critical solutions with precision and pride. Our Tech Center showcases cutting-edge technology with complete engineering capabilities for designing, building, debugging and maintaining short run tooling, to high speed, large volume stamping dies.
  • As a core value, we focus on delivering for our customers through innovative technology, superior quality, value, and responsiveness … as a result, our growth continues!
  • Employees are our greatest asset, which is why we share our company's profits to celebrate our collective success.
  • As a privately-owned company, we are proud to invest significantly in our community and in our own growth, focusing on long-term business success.
  • We are proudly American!

Specifically, we are seeking …

  • A willingness to excel in the machining / tool and die trade
  • Completion of an industrial technology high school program or equivalent
  • Good communication and organizational skills

Our Tool and Die Maker Apprentice will learn about metal stamping, die set-up, use all manual machines such as saws, mills, drill presses, grinder, lathes, wire EDM, and CNC milling.

The Apprenticeship Program consists of a three-year classroom (during the evening) and hands-on work (during the day) experience. The coursework will be taught by faculty through the Technology and Manufacturing Association (TMA) located in Schaumburg, IL and the hands-on work experience will be completed at the OTTO Tech Center.

The Tool and Die Maker Apprentice will:

  • Operate Tool Room equipment
  • Do maintenance on machines
  • Build and assemble new tools
  • Interpret tooling prints
  • SPC
  • Keep a clean and safe work area
  • Understand the operation of the press
  • Assist with other related duties as required or assigned

About you - What you'll bring to the table:

  • High school diploma
  • Completion of an industrial technology high school program or equivalent
  • Consistent attendance
  • Attention to neat appearance
  • Willingness to excel in the machining trade
  • Availability for nonstandard or extended work schedule
  • Good communication and organizational skills
  • Reach heights that may require a stepladder
  • Lift equipment up to 50 lbs.
  • Must be able to work in a quick paced environment

What OTTO offers for this specific position:

  • Hourly rate: $18.00 per hour
  • OTTO will pay for the TMA training and education.
  • Profit Sharing Bonus - OTTO believes that it's fair to share the profits that the employees help to make; profit sharing is distributed to employees twice a year. OTTO's profit sharing plan is paid at the discretion of the company and is not a guaranteed bonus or any part of a compensation plan.
  • Vacation: five days after 30 days of employment and 80 hours at 1 year - vacation time is earned on the anniversary date.

OTTO's Benefits:

Health:

Medical Insurance-

  • HMO Plan
  • Standard PPO Plan
  • Enhanced PPO Plan
  • High Deducible PPO Plan
  • FSA, LFSA, and HSA

Dental Insurance-

  • Base Plan
  • Buy-Up Plan

Vision Insurance

401(k) with a company match

Life insurance:

  • Life/AD&D
  • Voluntary Life/AD&D
  • Short-Term Disability
  • Long-Term Disability

10 paid holidays

Company picnic

Holiday party

AND numerous OTTO celebrations throughout the year!

To review all of OTTO's available opportunities, please visit our career page by clicking on the link below:

https://otto-engineering-inc.breezy.hr/

OTTO Engineering is an Equal Opportunity Employer: Disability/Veteran

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Request for Assistance / Reasonable Accommodation:

If you are a qualified individual with a disability or a disabled veteran, please let us know if you require a reasonable accommodation to complete any part of the online application process. You may request a reasonable accommodation if you are unable or limited in your ability to access job openings or apply for a job on this site as a result of your disability.

If you need an alternative method for applying, please contact OTTO Engineering via telephone at 847-428-7171 or email at HRDepartment @ ottoexcellence.com

These contact tools may be used only by individuals with a disability for accommodation requests; please do not inquire as to the status of an application.

OTTO Engineering does not accept unsolicited resumes from third party recruiters, agencies, or similar organizations; any submissions will not be honored.