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Entry Level Automotive Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL

Just In Time Staffing LLC

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Entry Level Manufacturing Engineer

Elgin, IL · On-site

$65K - $82K/yr

Position: Entry- Level Manufacturing Engineer Job Type : Direct Hire Pay: $65,000 - $82,000 ... Internship, co-op, lab, shop, automotive, robotics, or other hands-on technical experience.

City of Chicago

SANITARY ENGINEER II

Chicago, IL · On-site

$81K/yr

... performs entry level professional sanitary engineering work in connection with water quality ... Ability to operate an automotive vehicle. * Ability to collect water samples from lakes, tunnels ...

City of Chicago

SANITARY ENGINEER II

Chicago, IL · On-site

$81K/yr

... performs entry level professional sanitary engineering work in connection with water quality ... Ability to operate an automotive vehicle. * Ability to collect water samples from lakes, tunnels ...

Coilcraft

Entry-Level Machinist

Cary, IL

$20.75 - $28.50/hr

... engineering excellence ... Our high-performance magnetic components are used in telecommunications, automotive, computing ...

Coilcraft

Entry-Level Machinist

Cary, IL · On-site

$18 - $25/hr

... engineering excellence ... Our high-performance magnetic components are used in telecommunications, automotive, computing ...

Coilcraft

Entry-Level Machinist

Cary, IL

$20.75 - $28.50/hr

... engineering excellence ... Our high-performance magnetic components are used in telecommunications, automotive, computing ...

Coilcraft

Entry-Level Machinist

Cary, IL · On-site

$18 - $25/hr

... engineering excellence ... Our high-performance magnetic components are used in telecommunications, automotive, computing ...

Cadence Design Systems Inc.

Application Engineer

Cary, IL · On-site

$74K - $137K/yr

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

Cadence

Application Engineer

Cary, IL

$74K - $137K/yr

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

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All JobsAutomotive Engineer JobsEntry Level Automotive Engineer JobsEntry Level Automotive Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL

Entry Level Automotive Engineer information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$30.9K

$71.5K

$121.7K

How much do entry level automotive engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level automotive engineer in Chicago, IL is $71,509.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $53,100.00 and $80,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are typical daily responsibilities for an entry level automotive engineer?

As an Entry Level Automotive Engineer, you can expect to assist in the design and testing of automotive components or systems, prepare technical documentation, and support senior engineers on ongoing projects. Your daily tasks might include running simulations, creating and updating CAD models, conducting research on industry trends, and collaborating with teams in manufacturing, quality assurance, or project management. The role offers hands-on learning opportunities and frequent interaction with experienced engineers, making it a strong foundation for future advancement. Over time, you'll gradually take on more complex assignments and higher levels of responsibility as you grow within the organization.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the entry level automotive engineer position, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Automotive Engineer, you need a Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical or Automotive Engineering, strong problem-solving abilities, and a good grasp of automotive systems and design principles. Familiarity with CAD software (such as SolidWorks or CATIA), vehicle simulation tools, and basic knowledge of manufacturing processes are often expected. Attention to detail, effective teamwork, and clear communication skills are crucial soft skills in this position. These competencies enable successful contribution to design projects, effective collaboration with cross-functional teams, and adherence to industry safety and quality standards.

What is an entry level automotive engineer?

An Entry Level Automotive Engineer is a junior professional who assists in designing, testing, and improving vehicles and automotive components. They work under the supervision of senior engineers to develop vehicle systems, ensure safety standards, and enhance performance. Responsibilities may include computer-aided design (CAD), data analysis, and prototype testing. This role requires a degree in mechanical, automotive, or a related engineering field, along with technical skills and problem-solving abilities. It's a great starting point for those looking to advance in the automotive industry.

What are the most commonly searched types of Automotive Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Automotive Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Automotive Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL? For Entry Level Automotive Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Automotive Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Automotive Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Entry Level Automotive Engineer jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Entry Level Automotive Engineer job openings:
Entry Level Automotive Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Automotive Engineer job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $71,509 per year, or $34.4 per hour.

Entry Level Manufacturing Engineer

Just In Time Staffing LLC

Elgin, IL • On-site

$65K - $82K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, PTO

Re-posted 14 days ago

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Job description

Position: Entry- Level Manufacturing Engineer

Job Type: Direct Hire

Pay: $65,000 - $82,000 depending on experience

Hours: Day Shift (Occasional Off-Shift or On-Call Support Required) 

Location: Elgin, IL 

Requirements: Resume, Interview, E-verify

Benefits: Health, Dental, Vision, Supplemental life, and short-term disability insurance, basic life insurance and AD&D coverage, PTO. 

We are seeking an Entry-Level Manufacturing Engineer to join our team and play a key role in supporting production operations in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.

This is not a desk job. You'll spend the majority of your time on the production floor working directly with operators, maintenance technicians, and production equipment to troubleshoot issues, improve reliability, and support continuous improvement initiatives.

Responsibilities

Equipment Troubleshooting & Production Support

  • Respond to equipment breakdowns and production line stoppages.
  • Diagnose and resolve mechanical, electrical, pneumatic, and process-related issues.
  • Work closely with maintenance technicians and production operators to restore equipment and minimize downtime.
  • Identify recurring equipment failures and help implement long-term corrective actions.
  • Support preventive maintenance programs and spare parts management.

Automation & Controls

  • Assist with troubleshooting and maintaining automated production equipment.
  • Support conveyors, fillers, packaging systems, sensors, motors, and PLC-controlled equipment.
  • Participate in equipment upgrades, installations, and sensor calibrations.
  • Develop troubleshooting skills for both mechanical and controls-related issues.

Continuous Improvement

  • Observe manufacturing processes and identify opportunities to improve efficiency, throughput, quality, and waste reduction.
  • Assist with process improvement projects and Lean Manufacturing initiatives.
  • Document procedures, equipment modifications, and process changes.
  • Support safety, quality, and food-safety compliance requirements.

Qualifications

Required

  • Bachelor's Degree in Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or Civil Engineering.
  • Strong problem-solving and troubleshooting skills.
  • Ability to work in a manufacturing environment, including standing, walking, lifting, exposure to noise, and varying temperatures.
  • Strong communication and teamwork skills.

Preferred

  • Internship, co-op, lab, shop, automotive, robotics, or other hands-on technical experience.
  • Exposure to PLCs, sensors, motors, pneumatics, HMIs, or basic ladder logic through coursework or projects.
  • Experience in food, beverage, pharmaceutical, or other GMP-regulated manufacturing environments.
  • Familiarity with CAD software.
  • Understanding of Lean Manufacturing, Continuous Improvement, or CMMS systems.


Company Description

Just In Time Staffing seeks to pair top candidates with opportunities that will be mutually beneficial for both them and the employers.