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Entry Level Aerospace Engineering Jobs in Elgin, IL

Application Engineer

Cary, IL · On-site

$74K - $137K/yr

This is an entry level rotational position for STEM bachelor level graduates who have limited ... aerospace industrial and health. At Cadence, we hire and develop leaders and innovators who want to ...

Application Engineer

Cary, IL · On-site

$74K - $137K/yr

This is an entry level rotational position for STEM bachelor level graduates who have limited ... aerospace industrial and health. At Cadence, we hire and develop leaders and innovators who want to ...

This is an entry level rotational position for STEM bachelor level graduates who have limited ... aerospace industrial and health. At Cadence, we hire and develop leaders and innovators who want to ...

Showing results 21-40

Entry Level Aerospace Engineering information

See Elgin, IL salary details

$29.7K

$68.6K

$116.6K

How much do entry level aerospace engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level aerospace engineering in Elgin, IL is $68,565.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $50,900.00 and $77,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What types of projects and responsibilities can I expect as an entry level aerospace engineer?

As an entry-level aerospace engineer, you will typically support senior engineers on projects such as designing, testing, and analyzing aircraft or spacecraft components. Your daily tasks may include creating CAD models, running simulations, reviewing technical documentation, and participating in team meetings to discuss project progress. Collaboration is common, as you'll work closely with multidisciplinary teams, including mechanical, electrical, and software engineers. Over time, you may take on more complex assignments and gradually increase your responsibility within the team.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level aerospace engineer?

To thrive as an Entry Level Aerospace Engineer, you need a solid grasp of engineering principles, mathematics, and physics, typically backed by a bachelor's degree in aerospace or mechanical engineering. Familiarity with CAD software (like CATIA or SolidWorks), MATLAB, and simulation tools is commonly expected, along with knowledge of relevant industry standards. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective teamwork and communication skills help you excel in this collaborative and technically demanding field. These competencies are vital for designing safe, innovative aerospace systems and contributing effectively to multidisciplinary project teams.

What does an entry level aerospace engineer do?

An entry level aerospace engineer typically assists in designing, testing, and evaluating aircraft, spacecraft, satellites, and missiles. They work under the supervision of senior engineers to analyze data, develop technical reports, and support the creation of prototypes. Responsibilities may also include using computer-aided design (CAD) software, performing calculations, and helping ensure projects meet safety and quality standards. This role is ideal for recent graduates looking to gain practical experience in the aerospace industry.

What is the difference between Entry Level Aerospace Engineering vs Aerospace Technician?

AspectEntry Level Aerospace EngineeringAerospace Technician
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in aerospace or mechanical engineeringAssociate's degree or technical certification
Work EnvironmentDesign, analysis, and development in offices or labsHands-on assembly, maintenance, and testing in labs or manufacturing facilities
Employer & Industry UsageEngineering firms, aerospace companies, government agenciesManufacturers, maintenance facilities, aerospace service providers
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding entry-level engineering roles in aerospaceTechnical roles supporting aerospace systems

Entry Level Aerospace Engineering focuses on designing and analyzing aerospace systems, requiring a bachelor's degree. Aerospace Technicians perform hands-on maintenance and testing, often with technical certifications. Both roles are essential in the aerospace industry but differ in education, responsibilities, and work environment.

Does NASA hire entry level aerospace engineers?

Yes, NASA hires entry-level aerospace engineers for roles involving spacecraft design, aerodynamics, and systems analysis. These positions often require a bachelor's degree in aerospace engineering or a related field, along with strong technical skills and sometimes internships or co-op experience.

What are the most commonly searched types of Aerospace Engineering jobs in Elgin, IL?

The most popular types of Aerospace Engineering jobs in Elgin, IL are:

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Aerospace Engineering jobs in Elgin, IL?

For Entry Level Aerospace Engineering jobs in Elgin, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Aerospace Engineering jobs in Elgin, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Aerospace Engineering jobs in Elgin, IL are:

What cities near Elgin, IL are hiring for Entry Level Aerospace Engineering jobs?

Cities near Elgin, IL with the most Entry Level Aerospace Engineering job openings:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Aerospace Engineering job openings in Elgin, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 86% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $68,565 per year, or $33 per hour.

$65K - $77K/yr

Full-time

Posted 6 days ago


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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