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Entry Level Electrical Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

We are seeking a motivated Entry-Level Electrical Engineer with an emphasis in power systems to join our team. This is an excellent opportunity for recent graduates to gain hands-on experience ...

We are seeking a motivated Entry-Level Electrical Engineer with an emphasis in power systems to join our team. This is an excellent opportunity for recent graduates to gain hands-on experience ...

Overview Kimley-Horn is looking for Electrical Engineering graduates to join our Warrenville, Illinois (IL) office! This is not a remote position. Responsibilities * Utilize technical software ...

Overview Kimley-Horn is looking for Electrical Engineering graduates to join our Warrenville, Illinois (IL) office! This is not a remote position. Responsibilities * Utilize technical software ...

Overview Kimley-Horn is looking for Electrical Engineering graduates to join our Warrenville, Illinois (IL) office! This is not a remote position. Responsibilities * Utilize technical software ...

Overview Kimley-Horn is looking for Electrical Engineering graduates to join our Warrenville, Illinois (IL) office! This is not a remote position. Responsibilities * Utilize technical software ...

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Entry Level Electrical information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$41.7K

$89K

$146.8K

How much do entry level electrical jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level electrical in Chicago, IL is $88,985.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $67,000.00 and $106,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Electrical Technician, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Electrical Technician, you need a basic understanding of electrical theory, wiring, and safety protocols, often supported by a high school diploma or technical training. Familiarity with hand tools, multimeters, circuit testers, and reading electrical schematics is typically required, and certifications like OSHA-10 or NCCER can be beneficial. Attention to detail, problem-solving, and willingness to learn new concepts are important soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure safe, efficient installation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of electrical systems in compliance with industry standards.

What jobs make $3,000 a month without a degree?

Entry-level electrical jobs such as apprentice electricians or electrical technicians can earn around $3,000 per month, especially with some on-the-job training and certifications like OSHA or electrical licenses. These roles often require technical skills, safety knowledge, and physical work in construction or maintenance environments.

What is the difference between Entry Level Electrical vs Entry Level Electrician?

AspectEntry Level ElectricalEntry Level Electrician
CertificationsHigh school diploma, basic electrical knowledgeHigh school diploma, basic electrical knowledge
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, maintenance, installationConstruction sites, maintenance, installation
Employer & Industry UsageConstruction companies, manufacturing, maintenance firmsConstruction companies, maintenance firms, industrial facilities
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Entry Level Electrical and Entry Level Electrician roles often overlap in work environment and required credentials. The main difference is that 'Entry Level Electrical' may refer broadly to roles involving electrical work, while 'Entry Level Electrician' specifically denotes those performing electrical installations and repairs. Both positions serve similar industries and require comparable certifications, making them closely related in job searches and industry usage.

How to get an electrician job with no experience?

To get an entry-level electrical job with no experience, focus on completing a technical training program or apprenticeship to gain foundational skills and knowledge of electrical systems. Obtaining relevant certifications, such as OSHA safety training, and demonstrating a willingness to learn can improve your chances of securing an apprenticeship or helper position in the electrical trade.

Can you make $100,000 as an electrician?

Entry-level electricians typically do not earn $100,000 annually; this level of income is usually achieved with several years of experience, advanced certifications, and working in high-demand areas or specialized fields. Most electricians see higher earnings as they gain skills, complete apprenticeships, and take on more complex projects.

What are entry level electrical jobs?

Entry level electrical jobs are positions designed for individuals who are new to the electrical field, often requiring minimal experience and providing on-the-job training. These roles typically involve assisting licensed electricians with installing, maintaining, and repairing electrical systems in residential, commercial, or industrial settings. Duties might include running wires, assembling electrical components, and following safety protocols. Entry level positions are a great way to gain hands-on experience and can lead to more advanced roles with additional training and certification.

What is the entry level for an electrician?

The entry level for an electrician typically involves completing a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by an apprenticeship or technical training program. Most entry-level electricians are required to work under supervision and obtain relevant licenses or certifications before working independently.

What types of projects and tasks can I expect to work on as an entry-level electrical engineer?

As an entry-level electrical engineer, you'll typically be assigned to support larger projects by performing tasks such as drafting schematics, assisting with circuit design, performing basic calculations, and testing prototypes. You may also help with troubleshooting electrical issues under the guidance of senior engineers and participate in site visits or equipment inspections. This hands-on experience allows you to build foundational skills and gradually take on more responsibility as you become familiar with industry standards and your team's workflow.
What are the most commonly searched types of Electrical jobs in Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Electrical jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Entry Level Electrical jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Entry Level Electrical job openings:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Electrical job openings in Chicago, IL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 96% Full Time, and 4% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $88,985 per year, or $42.8 per hour.

Electrical Worker (Entry Level - Tier 3)

CRRC Sifang America, Inc.

Chicago, IL โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 25 days ago


Job description

RRC SIFANG AMERICA INCORPORATED ("CRRC") is a passenger railcar manufacturer in Chicago, Illinois. The passenger railcar manufacturing process includes 2 bargained-for work disciplines: assembly and electrical
The instant job description relates specifically to electrical work during the production of passenger railcars
Summary
Electrical Workers are separated into 4 classifications/categories, namely Entry Level, Tier 1, Tier 2, and Tier 3. As specified below, said classifications are separated by, among other considerations, skill sets, experience, and proficiency.
In general, Electrical Workers are responsible for wiring, assembling, connecting, and testing (specifically not including testing required during the commissioning process) electrical components on railcars under varying levels of supervision (depending on classification) while following drawings, schematics, procedures, and other written documentation, instructions, directives, and protocols. Electrical Workers will also participate in the testing/commissioning portion of the production process by providing support to Commissioning and Functional Engineers, and other high-level engineering and/or technical personnel, as directed, by specifically assisting with wiring for the continuity test, insulation test, and high voltage/potential (hipot) test.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
  • Interpreting and using electrical schematics, drawings, process procedures, and other written documentation to prepare materials and tools, and to complete assembly of components;
  • Sorting, routing, crimping, and terminating wires to electrical components;
  • Using basic diagnostics tools such as multimeters to test, and trouble-shoot wire connections (not related to commissioning work), as required;
  • Disassembling and recovering components for testing and commissioning, during the continuity, insulation, and high voltage/potential tests, as directed by Commissioning Engineers and other such specially-skilled personnel;
  • Trimming and insulating stripped wiring utilizing heat shrink tubing;
  • Disconnecting and restoring cable shunts and relevant tooling;
  • Completing paperwork, such as quality confirmation forms, as required in the process;
  • Following all safety protocols, and company policies and procedures;
  • Complete work documentation;
  • Maintaining a neat, clean, and organized work area; and
  • Performing other tasks, as assigned.

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the job.
Competencies and Characteristics
To perform the job successfully, an individual should demonstrate the following competencies and have the following characteristics:
  • Have the ability to work in a safe fashion
  • Have the ability to produce a quality product
  • Have great hand-eye coordination
  • Have a technical aptitude (of varying degrees, depending on classification)
  • Have the ability to bring value to the assigned project and to CRRC, as a whole
  • Have the ability to troubleshoot, as necessary
  • Have the ability to collaborate and coordinate with co-workers, supervisors, managers, and executive personnel in the Production Department and in other CRRC Departments
  • Have the ability to communicate well with others
  • Have the ability to draft documents of varying types
  • Have the ability to meet work, task, and project deadlines
  • Have the ability to multitask
  • Have the ability to follow instructions properly and accurately
  • Have flexibility with respect to the work schedule as warranted by operational/production needs and as permitted by the applicable Collective Bargaining Agreement
  • Have excellent time management skills
  • Have credibility and be trustworthy

Work Environment
Passenger railcar production facility with mobile equipment, heavy machinery, and high voltages
Physical Demands
โ€ข Ability to lift 40 lbs.
  • Ability to climb, bend, stoop, kneel
  • Ability to stand for an 8-hour shift
  • Ability to step up and bend down inside or under a railcar
  • Ability to remain in one position for a long period of time
  • Ability to perform work in tight spaces with difficult access

Required Education and Experience
โ€ข Required of all candidates:
  • Ability to read and interpret blueprints or ability to efficiently and effectively learn this part of the job if applying for an Entry Level Electrical Worker position
  • Ability to use basic electrical work-related hand tools, such as screwdrivers, wrench and socket sets, wire strippers, cutters, and crimpers
  • Ability to use basic pneumatic and power tools
  • Ability to follow oral and written instructions
  • Ability to read, write, and communicate in English
  • High School Diploma or GED highly recommended

โ€ข Depending on job classification, varying levels of electrical work experience, preferably in a fast-paced manufacturing setting:
โ€ข Entry Level classification: entry level with no prior relevant work experience required
โ€ข For Entry Level candidates: basic knowledge and hands-on skills with willingness and ability to be trained to do electrical work on and related to passenger railcars with regular supervision
โ€ข Tier 1 classification: some relevant prior work experience and proficiency required
โ€ข For Tier 1 candidates: working knowledge and hands-on skills with some relevant job experience in order to be able to complete basic tasks and undertake intermediate tasks with supervision and additional training OR having the foregoing knowledge and skills with work experience as an Electrical Worker (Entry Level) during Phase I and/or Phase II production at CRRC
โ€ข Tier 2 classification: more advanced relevant prior work experience and proficiency required
โ€ข For Tier 2 candidates: intermediate level knowledge, hands-on skills, proficiency, and experience to start and complete tasks without supervision, to direct and guide less skilled or experienced workers, and to assist Tier 3 workers, Foremen and Team Leads; demonstrated ability to produce a quality product with minimal abnormalities or reworks OR having the foregoing knowledge and skills with work experience as an Electrical Worker (either Entry Level and/or Tier 1) during Phase I and/or Phase II production at CRRC
โ€ข Tier 3 classification: very advanced technical skills, proficiency, and some supervisory experience/skills/capabilities
โ€ข For Tier 3 candidates: high level knowledge, hands-on skills, proficiency, and experience to start and complete tasks, to train less skilled and experienced workers with relevant tasks, and to provide significant assistance to Foremen and Team Leads including oversight of others' work; demonstrated ability to consistently produce a high-quality product; actual experience with or demonstrated capability to supervise less senior electricians OR having the foregoing knowledge and skills with work experience as an Electrical Worker (either Entry Level and/or Tier 1 and/or Tier 2) during Phase I and/or Phase II production at CRRC
CRRC is an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.
Salary Range: $19.82 - $30.55/hour
Benefits Include: Medical, Dental, Vision, and Union Pension
We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.
CRRC Sifang America
CRRC Sifang America is an Illinois-based subsidiary of CRRC Corporation Limited. CRRC Corporation Limited, the parent company, is a world leader in the designing, engineering and manufacturing of advanced passenger rail vehicles and high-speed trains. Headquartered in Beijing, China, CRRC Corporation Limited has 46 wholly-owned & majority-owned subsidiaries. They are a global innovator in rail car and locomotive construction and maintenance
In 2016, CRRC Sifang America was awarded a contract by the Chicago Transit Authority to supply 846 new railcars
CRRC Sifang America recently constructed a state-of-the-art production facility on the city's southeast side, returning railcar manufacturing to Chicago after a 50-year absence
Company Website: