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Electrical Engineer Trainee Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

NCW

Electrical Trainee

Des Plaines, IL · On-site

$54K - $91K/yr

Position Summary We are seeking an Electrical Trainee to support the installation of residential ... engineering industries. Equal Opportunity Employer We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and are ...

PTC

Maintenance Manager

Chicago, IL · On-site

Manage Trainee Program and work with Moraine Valley College for course part of trainees. * Recruit ... Report safety hazards to Plant Engineer and Plant Manager. * Make recommendations for improvements ...

Ptc Alliance

Maintenance Manager

Chicago, IL · On-site

$105 - $125/hr

Manage Trainee Program and work with Moraine Valley College for course part of trainees. * Recruit ... Report safety hazards to Plant Engineer and Plant Manager. * Make recommendations for improvements ...

New

PTC ALLIANCE LLC

Maintenance Manager

Bedford Park, IL · On-site

Manage Trainee Program and work with Moraine Valley College for course part of trainees. * Recruit ... Report safety hazards to Plant Engineer and Plant Manager. * Make recommendations for improvements ...

PTC

Maintenance Manager

Chicago, IL · On-site

Manage Trainee Program and work with Moraine Valley College for course part of trainees. * Recruit ... Report safety hazards to Plant Engineer and Plant Manager. * Make recommendations for improvements ...

PTC

Maintenance Manager

Chicago, IL · On-site

$105K - $125K/yr

Manage Trainee Program and work with Moraine Valley College for course part of trainees. * Recruit ... Report safety hazards to Plant Engineer and Plant Manager. * Make recommendations for improvements ...

Concordia Group

Civil Crew Foreman

Carol Stream, IL · On-site

$29 - $40/hr

Excavate, form, and pour concrete slabs per engineering drawings and site specs. * Interpret ... State Electrical Trainee License or Limited Energy License , if applicable (e.g. journeyman license ...

Concordia Group

Civil Crew Foreman

Carol Stream, IL · On-site

Excavate, form, and pour concrete slabs per engineering drawings and site specs. * Interpret ... State Electrical Trainee License or Limited Energy License , if applicable (e.g. journeyman license ...

Concordia Group

Civil Crew Foreman

Carol Stream, IL · On-site

$29 - $40/hr

Excavate, form, and pour concrete slabs per engineering drawings and site specs. * Interpret ... State Electrical Trainee License or Limited Energy License , if applicable (e.g. journeyman license ...

Concordia Group

Civil Crew Foreman

Carol Stream, IL

$29 - $40/hr

Excavate, form, and pour concrete slabs per engineering drawings and site specs. * Interpret ... State Electrical Trainee License or Limited Energy License , if applicable (e.g. journeyman license ...

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All JobsElectrical Engineer JobsElectrical Engineer Trainee JobsElectrical Engineer Trainee Jobs in Chicago, IL

Electrical Engineer Trainee information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$52K

$114.4K

$173.1K

How much do electrical engineer trainee jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for electrical engineer trainee in Chicago, IL is $114,440.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $85,500.00 and $136,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an electrical engineer trainee?

Electrical Engineer Trainees are entry-level professionals who work under the supervision of experienced electrical engineers to gain practical experience and develop their technical skills. They assist with designing, testing, and maintaining electrical systems and equipment in various industries such as construction, manufacturing, and energy. Their responsibilities may include preparing technical drawings, conducting experiments, troubleshooting issues, and learning industry standards. This role serves as a foundation for advancing to more senior engineering positions. Electrical Engineer Trainees often participate in training programs or internships as part of their career development.

What do electrical engineer trainees do?

As an Electrical Engineer Trainee, you can expect to be involved in a variety of tasks such as assisting with circuit design, supporting testing and troubleshooting of electrical systems, and preparing technical documentation under the guidance of senior engineers. You’ll likely rotate through different projects to gain exposure to multiple aspects of electrical engineering, from power distribution to control systems. Collaboration is key, as you’ll frequently work alongside more experienced engineers, technicians, and sometimes cross-functional teams like mechanical or software engineers. This hands-on experience helps build a solid foundation for future advancement within the company or industry.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an electrical engineer trainee?

To thrive as an Electrical Engineer Trainee, you need a solid understanding of electrical engineering fundamentals, problem-solving ability, and typically a bachelor's degree in electrical engineering or a related field. Familiarity with industry-standard tools such as AutoCAD, MATLAB, and circuit simulation software, along with knowledge of safety standards, is important. Strong communication, teamwork, and a willingness to learn help trainees excel and integrate into engineering teams. These skills and qualities enable effective project support, ensure compliance with technical and safety requirements, and foster professional growth in a demanding field.

What is the difference between Electrical Engineer Trainee vs Electrical Engineer?

AspectElectrical Engineer TraineeElectrical Engineer
QualificationsTypically pursuing or recently completed a degree in electrical engineeringBachelor's degree or higher in electrical engineering or related field
Work EnvironmentInternship or entry-level position, often in training programsFull-time professional role in design, development, or testing
ResponsibilitiesAssisting with projects, learning technical skills, supporting senior engineersDesigning circuits, analyzing systems, managing projects independently

The main difference is that an Electrical Engineer Trainee is in a learning or entry-level phase, focusing on gaining experience, while an Electrical Engineer is a fully qualified professional responsible for designing and managing electrical systems.

How to get into electrical engineer trainee with no experience?

To become an electrical engineer trainee with no experience, focus on obtaining a relevant degree such as electrical engineering or electronics, and develop practical skills through internships, projects, or certifications like OSHA or EIT. Gaining familiarity with industry tools like CAD software and demonstrating a willingness to learn can improve your chances when applying for entry-level positions.

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

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

What are popular job titles related to Electrical Engineer Trainee jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Electrical Engineer Trainee jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Electrical Engineer Trainee jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Electrical Engineer Trainee jobs in Chicago, IL are:

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

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

Electrical Engineer Trainee jobs near you
Infographic showing various Electrical Engineer Trainee job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 95% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $114,440 per year, or $55 per hour.

Electrical Trainee

NCW

Des Plaines, IL • On-site

$54K - $91K/yr

Full-time

Posted 16 days ago

Job description

Position Summary
We are seeking an Electrical Trainee to support the installation of residential solar and battery storage systems. This hands-on, field-based position assists Foremen and Electricians with electrical installations, solar equipment assembly, site preparation, troubleshooting, and general construction tasks. The ideal candidate has solar installation experience, strong mechanical aptitude, a commitment to safety, and the ability to work effectively as part of an installation team.
Responsibilities:
  • Assist with the installation of electrical systems connecting residential solar and energy storage systems to the utility grid.
  • Support troubleshooting and help identify and resolve electrical and system performance issues.
  • Assemble and install solar racking, mounting equipment, photovoltaic (PV) modules, and related components.
  • Assist with trenching, concrete work, material handling, equipment assembly, and other site preparation activities.
  • Maintain clean and organized job sites, tools, equipment, and company vehicles.
  • Follow OSHA regulations, safety procedures, NEC requirements, and company standards while supporting quality installations and customer satisfaction.
Requirements: 
  • High school diploma, GED, or equivalent required.
  • Minimum 2 years of construction experience, including at least 1 year of hands-on solar installation experience.
  • Experience working with electrical systems and wiring up to 600 VDC and 480 VAC.
  • Valid driver's license with a clean driving record; electrical trainee certification or license preferred based on local requirements.
  • Strong mechanical aptitude with the ability to safely use hand and power tools and perform basic computer tasks.
  • Ability to work on rooftops and outdoors in varying weather conditions, lift up to 50 pounds frequently, and travel up to 5% as needed.
Schedule:
  • Monday – Friday
Compensation:
  • $54,080.00 - $91,520.00 annually, based on experience
Benefits:
  • Benefit details have not been provided at this time. Eligible benefits will be discussed directly with the employer during the hiring process  
Job Type:
  • Full-Time | Direct Hire 
Application Period:
  • This position will remain open until filled

Employer Information  
This position is being recruited by NCW on behalf of a client company. All hiring decisions will be made by the employer. NCW partners with organizations nationwide to connect top talent with opportunities across construction, manufacturing, warehousing & distribution, and engineering industries.  
Equal Opportunity Employer  
We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees and applicants. All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to protected status in accordance with applicable laws.
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About NCW

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Founded in 2000 with a mission to do things differently, NCW is a team of staffing and professional recruitment specialists that deliver innovative solutions to hiring challenges. Here, our focus is on the people behind every role. We form long-standing partnerships with our clients and with the top talent in the market. We go beyond job requirements and resumes to learn the “whys” and the motivations of the companies and talent we serve. Committed to service excellence, our professional recruiters and temporary staffing specialists deliver an unmatched experience and unsurpassed results with every search. Matching the right person to the role requires an exceptional understanding of the market. The recruiters of NCW bring decades of staffing and recruiting expertise to the table. We understand the challenges employers face, and we know what talented people want from their next opportunities.

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services

Company size

51 - 200 Employees

Headquarters location

Indianapolis, IN, US

Year founded

2000

Social media

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