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Entry Level Design Jobs in Park Ridge, IL (NOW HIRING)

Our Design Studio team, in our Chicago office is seeking an Entry Level Mechanical Engineer . This role will support the engineering of systems for a variety of projects while working closely with ...

Description At Wolverine Trading, we're looking for an Entry-Level C++ Software Engineer eager to ... Contribute to the design, development, and testing of C++ applications that drive our trading ...

Installation Assistant

Chicago, IL · On-site

$16.50 - $21/hr

We design, manufacture, and install a complete line of custom closets, home office furniture, media ... This is an entry-level role, so the ideal candidate will be excited to grow their career in the ...

Drafter - Substation

Chicago, IL · On-site

$50K - $72K/yr

No experience required for an entry level position in the electric utility industry. More experience performing detailed CAD/design for high voltage substation projects could result in a higher pay ...

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Entry Level Design information

See Park Ridge, IL salary details

$15

$22

$28

How much do entry level design jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level design in Park Ridge, IL is $22.12, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.18 and $24.38 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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 most commonly searched types of Design jobs in Park Ridge, IL? The most popular types of Design jobs in Park Ridge, IL are:
What cities near Park Ridge, IL are hiring for Entry Level Design jobs? Cities near Park Ridge, IL with the most Entry Level Design job openings:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Design job openings in Park Ridge, IL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 87% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,005 per year, or $22.1 per hour.
Entry-Level Civil Inspection Engineer (50349)

Entry-Level Civil Inspection Engineer (50349)

Collins Engineers Inc.

Chicago, IL • On-site

$75K - $80K/yr

Full-time

Posted 16 days ago


Job description

Collins is an ENR Top 500 Design Firm. We have opportunities for you.
Collins has an opening for an Entry-Level Engineer in our Chicago, IL office to join our Structural Inspection Group. In this role, you will primarily assist with bridge and transportation structure inspections, condition assessments, and report preparation, with exposure to design-related tasks as needed. You will be mentored by experienced inspection engineers in both the office and the field. This position offers a unique opportunity to gain hands-on field experience, build a strong understanding of structural behavior, and develop inspection and documentation skills within the transportation industry.
Typical Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Perform field inspections of bridges and transportation-related structures under the supervision of licensed professional engineers.
  • Assist in the preparation of inspection, evaluation, and condition assessment reports.
  • Document field observations, measurements, and photographs in accordance with agency and inspection standards.
  • Support review of structure plans, load ratings, and previous inspection records to aid in inspection and assessment efforts.
  • Use computer-assisted engineering and inspection software to prepare report exhibits, sketches, calculations, and supporting documentation.
  • Perform limited design computations or quantity estimates related to inspection findings, repair concepts, or rehabilitation alternatives (as applicable).
  • Coordinate with draftspersons/technicians on figures, data entry, and report preparation.
  • Includes limited communication with clients and agency representatives regarding inspection activities and findings.
  • Field work is required and may include nights, weekends, travel, and working at heights or over traffic and water.

Relocation assistance is available.
Click HERE to see the variety of benefits that Collins has to offer.
Qualifications
Education and/or Experience:
  • Senior or recent graduate with a bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering from an accredited university.
  • Interest in bridge and structural inspection, field work, and transportation infrastructure.
  • Previous experience with AutoCAD, MicroStation, Bluebeam, or Civil 3D is a plus.
  • Previous experience with Microsoft Office Suite and Adobe PDF or other PDF editing software is a plus.
  • Engineer-In-Training (E.I.T.) certification, or ability to obtain within one year.
  • Valid driver's license and willingness to perform required field work

Physical Demands:
  • The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
  • While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to sit; use hands to finger, handle, or feel objects, tools, or controls; and reach with hands and arms.
  • The employee frequently is required to talk or hear.
  • The employee is occasionally required to stand, walk, stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl.
  • The employee must frequently lift and/or move up to 10 pounds and occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds.
  • Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, color vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus.