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Entry Level Construction Project Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL

Relevante, Inc.

Project Engineer

Munster, IN · On-site

$75K/yr

Prioritized Must Have Skills for the Project Engineer: #1. Bachelor's Degree in Construction Engineering, Construction Management, or a related field (required). #2. Open to both entry-level ...

ONeill Contractors Inc.

Be Seen First

Construction Project Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$65K/yr

The Project Engineer supports the Project Manager in the day-to-day administration of federal construction projects and supports the Estimating team in the preparation of competitive proposals ...

ONeill Contractors Inc.

Be Seen First

Construction Project Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$65K/yr

The Project Engineer supports the Project Manager in the day-to-day administration of federal construction projects and supports the Estimating team in the preparation of competitive proposals ...

SWE Solutions

Project Engineer I

Chicago, IL · On-site

$30 - $48/hr

This entry-level position provides an excellent opportunity to gain hands-on experience in construction engineering, project management, and fieldwork while supporting the successful execution of ...

SWE Solutions

Project Engineer I

Chicago, IL · On-site

$30 - $48/hr

This entry-level position provides an excellent opportunity to gain hands-on experience in construction engineering, project management, and fieldwork while supporting the successful execution of ...

SWE Solutions

Project Engineer I

Chicago, IL · On-site

$30 - $48/hr

This entry-level position provides an excellent opportunity to gain hands-on experience in construction engineering, project management, and fieldwork while supporting the successful execution of ...

Novak Construction Company

Project Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$70K - $80K/yr

Novak Construction Company is seeking experienced Traveling Project Engineers to support commercial construction projects from preconstruction through closeout. You will serve as a central hub for ...

Novak Construction Company

Project Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$70K - $80K/yr

Novak Construction Company is seeking Traveling Project Engineers to support commercial construction projects from preconstruction through closeout. You will serve as a central hub for project ...

BMWC Constructors

Project Engineer II

Munster, IN · On-site

$67K - $86K/yr

BMWC is an industrial construction company seeking a Project Engineer II to join the team. This position allows you to contribute to the delivery of large-scale industrial construction projects. You ...

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All JobsConstruction Project Engineer JobsEntry Level Construction Project Engineer JobsEntry Level Construction Project Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL

Entry Level Construction Project Engineer information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$34K

$84.5K

$155K

How much do entry level construction project engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 20, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level construction project engineer in Chicago, IL is $84,539.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $69,000.00 and $91,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Entry Level Construction Project Engineer vs Construction Coordinator?

AspectEntry Level Construction Project EngineerConstruction Coordinator
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Civil Engineering or related field; internships preferredHigh school diploma or associate degree; relevant experience beneficial
Work EnvironmentOn-site construction sites, project officesOffice setting, on-site visits
Employer & Industry UsageConstruction firms, engineering companiesGeneral contractors, construction management firms

Both roles support construction projects but differ mainly in responsibilities. Entry Level Construction Project Engineers focus on technical planning, design, and assisting with project execution, while Construction Coordinators handle scheduling, communication, and administrative tasks. The engineer role typically requires a degree and technical skills, whereas the coordinator role emphasizes organizational abilities. Understanding these differences helps job seekers identify the best fit for their skills and career goals.

How much does a first year project engineer make?

A first-year construction project engineer typically earns between $55,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on location, company size, and educational background. Entry-level engineers often develop skills in project management software and site supervision during their first year.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Construction Project Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Construction Project Engineer, you need a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering, construction management, or a related field, along with a solid understanding of project planning and construction processes. Familiarity with project management software (like Procore or Microsoft Project), AutoCAD, and reading blueprints is typically expected. Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and effective communication help you manage tasks, coordinate with teams, and solve problems on-site. These skills and qualities are crucial for ensuring projects are delivered safely, on time, and within budget while facilitating teamwork and minimizing errors.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Highly experienced engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum engineering, aerospace engineering, or software engineering with senior roles and advanced skills can earn $300,000 or more annually. These positions often require extensive experience, advanced certifications, and work in high-demand industries or leadership roles.

What are some common challenges faced by Entry Level Construction Project Engineers during their first year on the job?

Entry Level Construction Project Engineers often encounter challenges such as learning to effectively coordinate between various stakeholders—including contractors, architects, and suppliers—and managing their time across multiple tasks or job sites. Adapting to the fast-paced environment and resolving unexpected onsite issues can be demanding. New engineers typically need to quickly develop strong communication skills and a solid understanding of construction documentation, safety protocols, and project management software. However, these challenges provide valuable learning experiences and a foundation for long-term career growth in construction management.

What Does an Entry-Level Construction Project Engineer Do?

Entry-level construction project engineers assist senior project engineers with building projects. In this role, you may help plan the construction schedule, act as a liaison for contractors and subcontractors, provide status updates to clients, and answer any questions they may have about the progress. Many companies use this role as a type of extended training period for new engineers; you are supervised in most of your job duties and receive feedback designed to help you improve your skills and prepare for a regular, less-supervised engineering role. This job may require you to travel to different construction sites and work long shifts, including nights, weekends, or holidays, as needed.

What engineer makes $500,000 a year?

While most entry-level construction project engineers earn significantly less, senior or specialized engineers such as civil, petroleum, or aerospace engineers with extensive experience and advanced certifications can reach or exceed $500,000 annually, especially with bonuses and profit sharing. These high salaries are typically associated with senior roles, leadership positions, or engineers working in high-demand industries or regions with high living costs.

Can you become a project engineer with no experience?

Entry level construction project engineers can often start with little to no experience if they have relevant education, such as a degree in construction management or engineering, and demonstrate strong organizational and communication skills. Employers may provide on-the-job training and look for candidates with basic knowledge of construction processes, safety protocols, and project management tools like MS Project or Primavera.

What does an Entry Level Construction Project Engineer do?

An Entry Level Construction Project Engineer assists in managing construction projects by coordinating schedules, resources, and documentation. They work closely with project managers, contractors, and architects to ensure that building plans are executed correctly and safely. Their tasks often include tracking project progress, assisting with budgeting, and resolving on-site issues. This role provides valuable hands-on experience and is often a stepping stone to more advanced engineering or management positions in construction.
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Entry Level Construction Project Engineer jobs near you

Project Engineer

Cloud think technologies LLC

Munster, IN • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 18 days ago

Job description

Prioritized Must Have Skills for the Project Engineer:

#1. Bachelor’s Degree in Construction Engineering, Construction Management, or a related field (required).

#2. Open to both entry-level graduates (training will be provided) and candidates with prior experience in industrial construction project engineering.

Requirements of the Project Engineer: 

  • Bachelor’s Degree in Construction Engineering, Construction Management, or a related field is required.
  • We will train an entry level graduate and/or hire an experienced industrial construction project engineer.

 

Other Key Requirements:

  • Work on-site.
  • No sponsorships or visa holders.  No Corp-to-Corp.

 

Benefits of the Project Engineer: 

  • Competitive Pay with Bonus
  • PTO and paid holidays
  • 401K/Profit Sharing with company match
  • Medical, Dental and Vision Insurance
  • Life, AD&D and Disability benefits
  • Pet Insurance
Tuition Reimbursement