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Entry Level Design Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Actalent

Design Engineer (Entry Level Bsme)

Lisle, IL · Hybrid

$31.25/hr

Design Engineer (Entry Level Civil, Mechanical, or related Engineering discipline grad opportunity!!!)Overview We are seeking a Design Engineer to support infrastructure and utility-related ...

New

SWE Solutions

Design Engineer I

Chicago, IL · On-site

$33 - $48/hr

In this entry-level role, you will collaborate with experienced engineers and designers to develop ... Stay current with advancements in civil engineering design practices, tools, and regulations.

SWE Solutions

Design Engineer I

Chicago, IL · On-site

$33 - $48/hr

Description We are seeking a motivated Civil Design Engineer I to join our team and contribute to ... In this entry-level role, you will collaborate with experienced engineers and designers to develop ...

SWE Solutions

Design Engineer I

Chicago, IL · On-site

$33 - $48/hr

We are seeking a motivated Civil Design Engineer I to join our team and contribute to the ... In this entry-level role, you will collaborate with experienced engineers and designers to develop ...

Dewberry

Entry Level Electrical Engineer

Peoria, IL · On-site

$82K - $85K/yr

The engineer will also assist with the design and specification of power distribution systems ... Our entry-level program comes together on a regular basis for professional development events and ...

Dewberry

Entry Level Electrical Engineer

Peoria, IL · On-site

$82K - $85K/yr

The engineer will also assist with the design and specification of power distribution systems ... Our entry-level program comes together on a regular basis for professional development events and ...

Dewberry

Entry Level Electrical Engineer

Peoria, IL · On-site

$82K - $85K/yr

The engineer will also assist with the design and specification of power distribution systems ... Our entry-level program comes together on a regular basis for professional development events and ...

Rfamec

Entry Level Mechanical Engineer

Chillicothe, IL · On-site

$60K - $78K/yr

We are seeking an Entry Level candidate to become an integral part of our engineering team. The ... Work will include product design, product improvement, cost reduction, product health, prototype ...

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Entry Level Design information

See Illinois salary details

$14

$21

$28

How much do entry level design jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level design in Illinois is $21.78, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.85 and $23.99 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry level design job?

An entry level design job is a starting position in the design industry, typically suited for recent graduates or those with limited professional experience. These roles often involve assisting senior designers, creating basic design assets, and learning industry tools and workflows. Entry level designers may work in fields such as graphic design, web design, or industrial design, and are expected to have a foundational understanding of design principles and software like Adobe Creative Suite. The goal is to build practical skills, gain experience, and develop a professional portfolio to advance in the field.

What types of projects and responsibilities can an entry level design professional expect in their first year?

Entry-level design professionals typically work on a variety of supporting tasks, such as preparing drafts, creating visual assets, and assisting with layout or branding projects. They often collaborate closely with senior designers and art directors, gaining exposure to client feedback and the revision process. While responsibilities may start with smaller assignments, there are frequent opportunities to contribute ideas during team brainstorming sessions and to gradually take on more complex projects as skills develop. This hands-on experience is crucial for building a strong portfolio and understanding real-world design workflows.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level designer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Designer, you need a solid understanding of design principles, proficiency in visual communication, and a relevant degree or coursework in graphic, web, or industrial design. Familiarity with industry-standard tools such as Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign) and basic knowledge of design systems or prototyping platforms is important. Strong attention to detail, creativity, collaboration, and openness to feedback set standout candidates apart. These skills and qualities enable designers to produce high-quality work, adapt to team needs, and grow in a fast-evolving creative field.

What is the difference between Entry Level Design vs Graphic Designer?

AspectEntry Level DesignGraphic Designer
Required CredentialsAssociate degree or relevant courseworkBachelor’s degree in Graphic Design or related field
Work EnvironmentInternships, junior roles, freelance projectsDesign agencies, corporate marketing teams, freelance
Industry UsageEntry positions in various industriesCreative and marketing industries
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding entry-level roles in designEntry-level design roles and career path

Entry Level Design typically refers to initial roles requiring basic skills and minimal experience, often involving internships or freelance work. Graphic Designer is a more specific job title that usually requires a formal degree and involves creating visual content for clients or companies. While both roles serve as starting points in the design industry, Entry Level Design is broader, encompassing various entry positions, whereas Graphic Designer is a specialized role within the field.

What are the most commonly searched types of Design jobs in Illinois?

The most popular types of Design jobs in Illinois are:

What cities in Illinois are hiring for Entry Level Design jobs?

Cities in Illinois with the most Entry Level Design job openings:

Entry Level Design jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Design job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 82% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,305 per year, or $21.8 per hour.

Entry Level Electrical Design Engineer (2027)

Chicago, IL • Hybrid

DMC Engineering
Civil Engineering Construction • 11 - 50 employees
Learn more about DMC Engineeringexternal

$87K - $97K/yr

Full-time

Posted 29 days ago

Job description

(Hybrid)
Description
Are you passionate about electrical design? As an Entry-Level Electrical Design Engineer, you'll gain hands-on experience while expanding your expertise in electrical design software, custom control panel design, wiring, schematics, and more! You'll work on innovative projects across diverse industries, collaborate in a team-oriented environment, and apply your technical knowledge to real-world challenges.

Note: The expected start date for this position is Summer 2027.

About DMC
DMC is a leading engineering consulting firm, delivering high-caliber engineering and custom software development services globally. Specializing in innovative solutions for manufacturing, testing, and product development, our expertise spans industries from aerospace to consumer-packaged goods to healthcare, and more. Our engineers excel in staying ahead of cutting-edge technologies and ensuring top-notch solutions. We prioritize technical excellence and cultivate a collaborative environment for independent and team-based work, reflecting our commitment to professional growth and providing forward-thinking solutions to clients.

This role is for any entry level engineer (0-3 years of experience) looking for a position in 2027. We have an exceptional onboarding and training program to help align your skillset with our technical offerings. 

Responsibilities

  • Designs custom control panels, bill of materials, wiring diagrams, schematic diagrams, and one-line power distribution drawings
  • Conducts IO checkout and validation
  • Performs enclosure FLA and heat dissipation calculations
  • Creates and maintains AutoCAD Electrical templates, blocks and symbols library
  • Organizes and maintains project drawings and technical information
  • Researches components and identifies electrical requirements from data sheets/manuals
  • Manages time effectively across multiple projects

Requirements
Engineer Level I (0-1 years of relevant experience)

  • Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering or related field (3.4 GPA minimum)
  • Familiar with electrical schematics
  • Familiar with electrical design software (AutoCAD, AutoCAD Electrical, or EPlan preferred) 
  • Understanding of motors, instrumentation and other electrical components with guidance
  • Ability to comprehend and explain simple control circuits (on/off, latching, etc.)
  • Capable of occasional travel

ITAR Requirements
To conform to U.S. Government commercial space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), 8 U.S.C. § 1324b(a)(3), applicants for employment at DMC must be a U.S. citizen or national, lawfully admitted for permanent residence into the U.S. (i.e. current green card holder), or lawfully admitted as a refugee or granted asylum under 8 U.S.C. §  1157-1158. 

Additional Information:

  • Benefits/Culture/Bonuses and More!
  • Office Locations
  • DMC Website
  • Engineering Blogs
  • Additional Career Opportunities 

Compensation is based on relevant experience, industry and location standards.

Salary Range
$87,500—$97,500 USD