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Associate Engineer Jobs in Wheaton, IL (NOW HIRING)

Engineering Associate

West Chicago, IL · On-site

$57K - $74K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Engineering Manager Position Summary As an Associate Engineer within the OC Doors R&D Exterior ... This position is ideal for an engineer who thrives in hands on problem solving, and detailed ...

Engineering Associate

West Chicago, IL · On-site

$57K - $74K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Engineering Manager Position Summary As an Associate Engineer within the OC Doors R&D Exterior ... This position is ideal for an engineer who thrives in hands on problem solving, and detailed ...

Engineering Associate

West Chicago, IL · On-site

$57K - $74K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Engineering Manager Position Summary As an Associate Engineer within the OC Doors R&D Exterior ... This position is ideal for an engineer who thrives in hands on problem solving, and detailed ...

RS&H is currently seeking a civil highway engineering associate to join our team. This position will have the ability to work a hybrid schedule of in-office and remote. As part of the infrastructure ...

Associate IAM Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$70K - $95K/yr

As an Associate IAM Engineer, you will be the frontline defender and administrator of our identity perimeter. You will focus on day-to-day identity operations, single sign-on (SSO) integrations ...

Associate IAM Engineer

Chicago, IL · Hybrid

$70K - $95K/yr

As an Associate IAM Engineer, you will be the frontline defender and administrator of our identity perimeter. You will focus on day-to-day identity operations, single sign-on (SSO) integrations ...

Associate Fiber Engineer

Downers Grove, IL · On-site

$48K - $74K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Our Fiber Engineer Specialist will report to the Fiber Engineering Manager, with regular interaction with the Outside Plant Team, GIS Specialists, Sales Engineering, and Fiber Visualization ...

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Associate Engineer information

See Wheaton, IL salary details

$40.1K

$79.9K

$127.6K

How much do associate engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for associate engineer in Wheaton, IL is $79,868.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $63,300.00 and $91,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an associate engineer?

Associate Engineers are entry-level engineering professionals who support more experienced engineers in designing, developing, testing, and maintaining various projects in their field. They typically work under supervision and assist with tasks such as drafting technical documents, conducting research, analyzing data, and ensuring compliance with industry standards. Associate Engineers often gain practical experience and training to advance to higher-level engineering roles as they develop their skills.

What is the difference between Associate Engineer vs Mechanical Engineer?

AspectAssociate EngineerMechanical Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in engineering or related field; entry-level certificationsBachelor's degree in mechanical engineering; professional licensure (optional)
Work EnvironmentDesign, testing, and support roles in engineering teams; often in office or lab settingsDesign, analysis, and manufacturing in industrial or construction settings
Employer & Industry UsageEntry-level position across various industries like manufacturing, construction, and techDesign and development roles primarily in manufacturing, automotive, aerospace, and energy sectors

The main difference between an Associate Engineer and a Mechanical Engineer lies in experience and responsibilities. Associate Engineers are typically entry-level, focusing on supporting engineering tasks, while Mechanical Engineers have more experience and handle complex design and analysis responsibilities. Both roles require a bachelor's degree, but Mechanical Engineers often pursue licensure for advanced roles. The choice depends on your experience level and career goals within engineering fields.

What are some typical challenges associate engineers face when transitioning from academic projects to industry roles?

Associate Engineers often find the transition from academic projects to industry roles challenging due to differences in project scope, teamwork dynamics, and pace. In industry, you’ll likely work on larger, multi-disciplinary teams where effective communication and collaboration are crucial. Additionally, projects often have stricter deadlines and require adherence to established processes and standards, which may be less emphasized in academic settings. Embracing continuous learning and seeking mentorship from senior engineers can help ease this transition and set you up for success.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an associate engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Associate Engineer, you need a solid grasp of engineering principles, problem-solving abilities, and a relevant bachelor's degree. Familiarity with CAD software, industry-specific tools, and basic project management systems is typically required. Strong teamwork, attention to detail, and effective communication set standout candidates apart. These skills and qualities are crucial for delivering accurate technical solutions and contributing effectively to engineering projects.

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

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

What are popular job titles related to Associate Engineer jobs in Wheaton, IL?

For Associate Engineer jobs in Wheaton, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities near Wheaton, IL are hiring for Associate Engineer jobs?

Cities near Wheaton, IL with the most Associate Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Associate Engineer job openings in Wheaton, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 70% Full Time, 27% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $79,868 per year, or $38.4 per hour.

Associate Engineer

Element Materials Technology

Glendale Heights, IL • On-site

$65K - $77K/yr

Full-time

Posted 3 days ago

New


Element Materials Technology rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 43 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

76th of 120 rated laboratories


Job description

Overview

Element has an opportunity for an Associate Engineer to join our rapidly expanding team. Working under the guidance of engineers and metallurgists, the Associate Engineer supports laboratory operations by performing routine and non-routine metallurgical and mechanical testing of well-defined assignments under limited supervision in accordance with approved procedures, methods, and specifications working. The Associate engineer must be proficient in several core technical and business skills to contribute to the timely delivery of testing services and customer reports. Success in this position requires adherence to company policies, the code of conduct, effective communication of technical information, and active participation in continuous improvement initiatives.

Salary: $65,000- $77,000/yr DOE 

Responsibilities

Perform routine metallurgical and mechanical testing with limited supervision. Apply approved test methods, procedures, specifications, and industry standards. Analyze standard testing data and assist with technical evaluations. Contribute to technical presentations and written communications. Draft proposed test procedures, methods, and laboratory techniques. Manage multiple priorities and meet assigned deadlines. Collaborate effectively with laboratory personnel and cross-functional teams. Communicate technical concepts clearly to technical and non-technical audiences. Support problem-solving efforts related to routine testing challenges. Utilize sound engineering judgment to evaluate testing results. Maintain professionalism, attention to detail, and data integrity. Contribute ideas for process improvements and operational efficiency.Qualifications

Bachelor's degree in Metallurgical Engineering, Materials Science Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related technical discipline. Entry-level to approximately 2 years of relevant laboratory, manufacturing, or engineering experience. Internship, co-op, undergraduate research, or laboratory experience a plus. Understanding of metallurgical and mechanical testing principles. Demonstrated ability to apply academic knowledge to practical solutions to engineering problems. Knowledge of ASTM, ISO, aerospace, automotive, medical, or other applicable industry standards is preferred. Able to lift 50 lbs. Strong technical writing and report preparation skills. Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications and engineering software tools. Basic CAD knowledge is an advantage. Ability to work independently on defined assignments while seeking guidance when appropriate.

Skills / Qualifications
  • Ability to work on well-defined issues, standard and/or routine tests, with limited supervision in accordance with approved procedures, methods, customer specifications and standards
  • Adapt at managing job priority and work time in accordance with targets/goals set by supervisor
  • Under the close guidance of advanced Engineers in the laboratory, work on well delineated technical issues including standard and routine analysis
  • Define work experience that has impact on the day to day technical decisions made on timely delivery of laboratory testing services and customer support
  • Strong technical knowledge
  • Able to demonstrate the ability to apply an array of testing techniques in a rational and practical style to help examine issues and build solutions

Physical Demands:

  • Frequency of required physical force: Minimum (moderate)
  • Lifting requirements: lifting <50 lbs. often and >50 lbs. on occasion
  • Ability to stand on feet for long periods of time
  • Ability to lift 50+lbs periodically
Company Overview

Element is one of the fastest growing testing, inspection and certification businesses in the world. Globally we have more than 9,000 brilliant minds operating from 270 sites across 30 countries. Together we share an ambitious purpose to 'Make tomorrow safer than today'.

When failure in use is not an option, we help customers make certain that their products, materials, processes and services are safe, compliant and fit for purpose. From early R&D, through complex regulatory approvals and into production, our global laboratory network of scientists, engineers, and technologists support customers to achieve assurance over product quality, sustainable outcomes, and market access.

While we are proud of our global reach, working at Element feels like being part of a smaller company. We empower you to take charge of your career, and reward excellence and integrity with growth and development.

Industries across the world depend on our care, attention to detail and the absolute accuracy of our work. The role we have to play in creating a safer world is much bigger than our organization.

Diversity Statement

At Element, we always take pride in putting our people first. We are an equal opportunity employer that recognizes diversity and inclusion as fundamental to our Vision of becoming "the world's most trusted testing partner".

All suitably qualified candidates will receive consideration for employment on the basis of objective work related criteria and without regard for the following: age, disability, ethnic origin, gender, marital status, race, religion, responsibility of dependents, sexual orientation, or gender identity or other characteristics in accordance with the applicable governing laws or other characteristics in accordance with the applicable governing laws.

Employment Type: OTHER

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