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

Maintenance Apprentice

Chicago, IL · On-site

$17.75 - $24.25/hr

This position operates under the Operating Engineers Local 399 collective bargaining agreement ... Referral or coordination through the IUOE Local 399 Trainee Program, with mandatory union ...

Showing results 21-22

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

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

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.

$17.75 - $24.25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired 1 day ago. Applications are no longer accepted.


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Job description

JLL empowers you to shape a brighter way.
Our people at JLL are shaping the future of real estate for a better world by combining world class services, advisory and technology for our clients. We are committed to hiring the best, most talented people and empowering them to thrive, grow meaningful careers and to find a place where they belong. Whether you've got deep experience in commercial real estate, skilled trades or technology, or you're looking to apply your relevant experience to a new industry, join our team as we help shape a brighter way forward.
What this job involves
Embark on a rewarding career path with JLL as a Maintenance Apprentice. This position is a unique opportunity for a motivated individual to gain foundational knowledge and hands-on experience in building operations and engineering. You will work directly with skilled technicians to operate, maintain, and repair critical building systems, including boilers, chillers, and HVAC units. This role is essential to delivering safe, efficient, and well-maintained properties, directly supporting JLL's commitment to operational excellence and client satisfaction.
This position operates under the Operating Engineers Local 399 collective bargaining agreement.
What your day-to-day will look like:
  • Assist with operating, maintaining, and repairing boilers, chillers, HVAC units, and plumbing systems
  • Perform routine checks, lubricate machinery, and help troubleshoot mechanical or electrical failures
  • Learn and follow municipal, state, and federal safety guidelines including OSHA and local building codes

Required Qualifications:
  • High school diploma or GED equivalent
  • Referral or coordination through the IUOE Local 399 Trainee Program, with mandatory union membership after a short probationary window
  • Typically requires passing background checks, drug testing, and meeting physical requirements for trade work

This position does not provide visa sponsorship. Candidates must be authorized to work in the United States without sponsorship.
Estimated compensation for this position:
41,600.00 - 41,600.00 USD per year
This range is an estimate and actual compensation may differ. Final compensation packages are determined by various considerations including but not limited to candidate qualifications, location, market conditions, and internal considerations.
Location:
On-site -Chicago, IL
If this job description resonates with you, we encourage you to apply, even if you don't meet all the requirements. We're interested in getting to know you and what you bring to the table!
Personalized benefits that support personal well-being and growth:
JLL recognizes the impact that the workplace can have on your wellness, so we offer a supportive culture and comprehensive benefits package that prioritizes mental, physical and emotional health. Some of these benefits may include:
  • 401(k) plan with matching company contributions
  • Comprehensive Medical, Dental & Vision Care
  • Paid parental leave at 100% of salary
  • Paid Time Off and Company Holidays
  • Early access to earned wages through Daily Pay

At JLL, we harness the power of artificial intelligence (AI) to efficiently accelerate meaningful connections between candidates and opportunities. Using AI capabilities, we analyze your application for relevant skills, experiences, and qualifications to generate valuable insights about how your unique profile aligns with the specific requirements of the role you're pursuing.
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Jones Lang LaSalle (JLL), together with its subsidiaries and affiliates, is a leading global provider of real estate and investment management services. We take our responsibility to protect the personal information provided to us seriously. Generally the personal information we collect from you are for the purposes of processing in connection with JLL's recruitment process. We endeavour to keep your personal information secure with appropriate level of security and keep for as long as we need it for legitimate business or legal reasons. We will then delete it safely and securely.
For more information about how JLL processes your personal data, please view our Candidate Privacy Statement.
For additional details please see our career site pages for each country.
For candidates in the United States, please see a full copy of our Equal Employment Opportunity policy here.
Jones Lang LaSalle ("JLL") is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities. If you need a reasonable accommodation because of a disability for any part of the employment process - including the online application and/or overall selection process - you may email us at HRSCLeaves@jll.com. This email is only to request an accommodation. Please direct any other general recruiting inquiries to our Contact Us page > I want to work for JLL.
Pursuant to the Arizona Civil Rights Act, criminal convictions are not an absolute bar to employment.
Pursuant to Illinois Law, applicants are not obligated to disclose sealed or expunged records of conviction or arrest.
Pursuant to Columbia, SC ordinance, this position is subject to a background check for any convictions directly related to its duties and responsibilities. Only job-related convictions will be considered and will not automatically disqualify the candidate.
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If you are a California resident as defined in the California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA) please view our Supplemental Privacy Statement which describes your rights and disclosures about your personal information. If you are viewing this on a mobile device you may want to view the CCPA version on a larger device.
Pursuant to the Los Angeles Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance, JLL will consider for employment all qualified Applicants, including those with Criminal Histories, in a manner consistent with the requirements of applicable state and local laws, including the City of Los Angeles' Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance.
Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.
Accepting applications on an ongoing basis until candidate identified.

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