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Entry Level Drainage Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL

Water Resources Engineer

Cary, IL · On-site

$80K - $109K/yr

Our Cary office is looking for an entry level Hydraulic Engineer. The Hydraulic/Stormwater Design ... Assignments may include a diverse variety of drainage-related tasks such as stormwater management ...

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 ... drainage systems, grading, and utilities. * Perform calculations and analyses related to structural ...

In this entry-level role, you will collaborate with experienced engineers and designers to develop ... drainage systems, grading, and utilities. * Perform calculations and analyses related to structural ...

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 ... drainage systems, grading, and utilities. * Perform calculations and analyses related to structural ...

Langan provides expert land development engineering and environmental consulting services for major ... management, drainage, and soil erosion; * Excellent written and verbal communication skills;

Langan provides expert land development engineering and environmental consulting services for major ... management, drainage, and soil erosion; * Excellent written and verbal communication skills;

Entry Level Drainage Engineer information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$54.1K

$99.8K

$133.9K

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

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level drainage engineer in Chicago, IL is $99,815.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $87,000.00 and $113,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an entry level drainage engineer do?

An Entry Level Drainage Engineer helps design, analyze, and implement stormwater and wastewater management systems under the supervision of senior engineers. Their tasks typically include preparing drainage plans, using software to model water flow, assisting with site inspections, and ensuring projects comply with environmental regulations. They often work with multidisciplinary teams on infrastructure projects such as roads, buildings, and land developments. This role is ideal for recent engineering graduates looking to gain experience in civil or environmental engineering fields.

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

To thrive as an Entry Level Drainage Engineer, you need a solid understanding of civil engineering principles, hydrology, and environmental regulations, typically backed by a bachelor's degree in civil or environmental engineering. Familiarity with technical tools such as AutoCAD, MicroStation, and drainage modeling software like HEC-RAS or SWMM is often required. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication skills set candidates apart in this role. These skills and qualities are crucial for designing safe, efficient drainage systems and collaborating successfully with multidisciplinary teams.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level drainage engineers in their first year on the job?

Entry level drainage engineers often encounter challenges such as learning to interpret complex civil engineering plans, understanding local and federal drainage regulations, and becoming proficient with specialized design software like Civil 3D or MicroDrainage. Additionally, they may need to quickly adapt to collaborating with multidisciplinary teams, including architects, surveyors, and environmental specialists. Time management and balancing multiple project deadlines are also common hurdles, but with guidance from senior engineers and on-the-job experience, these challenges become valuable learning opportunities.

What is the difference between Entry Level Drainage Engineer vs Junior Civil Engineer?

AspectEntry Level Drainage EngineerJunior Civil Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Civil or Environmental Engineering, possibly some internship experienceBachelor's in Civil Engineering, internship experience often preferred
Work EnvironmentDesigning drainage systems, site assessments, field inspectionsAssisting in various civil projects, site planning, and design tasks
Industry UsageSpecialized in drainage and stormwater management within civil engineering firmsBroader civil engineering roles across multiple project types

Both roles typically require a bachelor's degree in civil engineering and internship experience. An Entry Level Drainage Engineer focuses specifically on drainage systems and stormwater management, while a Junior Civil Engineer has a broader scope in civil projects. The drainage engineer role is more specialized, whereas the junior civil engineer may work across various civil disciplines.

Are entry level drainage engineers in demand?

Entry level drainage engineers are in steady demand due to ongoing infrastructure projects, urban development, and the need for stormwater management solutions. Employers seek candidates with basic knowledge of civil engineering principles, drainage design software, and relevant certifications, making entry-level positions accessible for recent graduates.

What qualifications do I need to be an entry level drainage engineer?

An entry-level drainage engineer typically needs a bachelor's degree in civil engineering, environmental engineering, or a related field. Relevant skills include knowledge of drainage design, computer-aided design (CAD) software, and understanding of local regulations; some positions may also require internships or related work experience.
Infographic showing various Entry Level Drainage Engineer job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $99,815 per year, or $48 per hour.

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 10 days ago


Langan rating

9.3

Company rating: 9.3 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

26th of 451 rated engineering


Job description

Langan provides expert land development engineering and environmental consulting services for major developers, renewable energy producers, energy companies, corporations, healthcare systems, colleges/universities, and large infrastructure programs throughout the U.S. and around the world. Our employees collaborate seamlessly among 50+ offices and gain valuable hands-on experience that fosters career growth. Langan culture is entrepreneurial from advancing innovative technical solutions, to participating in robust training and knowledge sharing, to making progressive change within the communities we live and work.

Consistently ranked among the top ten "Best Firms to Work For" and Engineering News-Record's top 50 firms worldwide, Langan attracts and retains the best talent in the industry. Employees thrive at Langan, a firm that fosters an inclusive and supportive work environment for all; prioritizes wellbeing, health, and safety; encourages volunteerism and philanthropy; offers workplace flexibility, along with carbon-neutral office spaces; and empowers individuals to contribute their skills and knowledge to make impactful contributions.

 Job Summary

Langan is seeking an Entry-Level Civil Engineer to join its collaborative team in Chicago, IL. This individual will serve a key function in providing assistance with the planning, design, and permitting of civil engineering, land development, and infrastructure projects. In this role, you will have the opportunity to gain experience in site/civil engineering design for mixed-use developments, shopping centers, residential, higher education, federal, and other exciting land development projects.

Job Responsibilities
  • Assist with the planning, design and permitting of civil engineering, land development and infrastructure projects;
  • Assist with the preparation and modification of various engineering documents including reports, specifications, plans, construction schedules, cost estimates and design plans for projects using engineering and design software (AutoCAD, Civil 3D, etc.) and equipment;
  • Effectively use reports, maps, drawings, engineering plans, test and aerial photographs to assess soil composition, terrain, hydrological characteristics and topographical and geologic data and their impact on the planning and design of projects;
  • Recommend new approaches and ideas that continuously improve efficiency and services performed;
  • Apply knowledge and techniques of engineering and advanced mathematics;
  • Collaborate with team members on project tasks and assignments; and
  • Perform other duties as requested.
Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering;
  • 0-2 years of work-related experience; 
  • Minimum 3.0 GPA;
  • EIT Certification or current registration for the FE exam preferred;
  • Prior relevant internship or professional experience in site/civil design, including site planning, grading, stormwater management, drainage, and soil erosion;
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills;
  • Strong attention to detail with excellent analytical, multitasking, and judgment capabilities;
  • Ability to effectively work independently and in a team environment; and
  • Availability to work Monday through Friday with occasional evenings and weekends.

Langan provides a rich array of programs and benefits to help its employees advance their careers and enhance the quality of their lives. Our comprehensive compensation package includes: full-time employment company paid medical, dental, and vision coverage; life insurance, short- and long-term disability insurance, and paid pregnancy disability leave; 401(k)/Roth with company match; paid time off including parental and military leave; employee referral and professional license bonuses; and educational reimbursement.

Langan offers employee resource groups; flexible work schedules; extensive training; wellness programs; buddy and mentoring programs; and much more!

Langan is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all qualified applicants and employees, including individuals with disabilities and protected veterans. We believe that an inclusive workplace is essential for the well-being and success of our employees.


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