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

Electrical Engineering Analyst

Warrenville, IL

$87K - $90K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

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 ...

Electrical Engineering Analyst

Warrenville, IL · On-site

$87K - $90K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

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 ...

Electrical Engineering Analyst

Warrenville, IL · On-site

$87K - $90K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

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 ...

Electrical Engineering Analyst

Warrenville, IL · On-site

$87K - $90K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

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

Showing results 21-40

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 13, 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 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.

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.

How to get into entry level electrical work with no experience?

Entry level electrical work typically requires a high school diploma or equivalent; gaining basic knowledge of electrical systems and safety procedures is helpful. Many employers accept applicants who complete an apprenticeship program or technical training, which provides hands-on experience and skills in wiring, tools, and safety standards. Obtaining a relevant certification, such as OSHA safety training, can improve job prospects and demonstrate commitment to the field.

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 are popular job titles related to Entry Level Electrical jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Entry Level Electrical jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles 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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, 3% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $88,985 per year, or $42.8 per hour.

Staff Engineer, Electrical Engineering - Thermal

Invenergy

Chicago, IL

$70K - $95K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 3 days ago


Invenergy rating

9.1

Company rating: 9.1 out of 10

Based on 9 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Invenergy is North America's largest privately held developer, owner, and operator of power infrastructure. With 25 years of trusted execution, we deliver reliable, affordable energy through a diverse portfolio that includes natural gas, solar, land-based wind, energy storage, transmission, and domestic manufacturing. Headquartered in Chicago, we develop, own, and operate large scale projects that power communities and support the energy future.

This position will be open for application for at least 3 calendar days from the posting date. This position will remain open for application based on business need, which may be before or after the 3-day posting window.

Job Description

Position Overview

The Staff Engineer, Electrical Engineering will support the electrical engineering and construction of cutting-edge Thermal generation projects (natural gas combustion turbines, combined cycle power plants, etc.). You will be primarily responsible for supporting engineering activities internally or through the selected Engineering Firms in order to complete final detailed design packages for projects to be built. The electrical systems of Thermal projects utilize large turbine generators, isophase, medium voltage and low voltage auxiliary systems (switchgear, breakers, MCCs), Generator Step-Up Transformers, switchyard, and transmission line interconnections to the grid at high and extra high voltages. The Staff Engineer level includes a training period for engineers to develop into contributing team members.

Responsibilities:

  • Electrical Engineering and Projects' Technical Responsibility

    • Assist in developing project specific construction, engineering, and equipment specifications

    • Assist in the development of new projects by analyzing conceptual designs that comply with all critical owner and interconnection requirements and support RFQ specifications

    • Prepare and validate electrical energy calculations

    • Conduct thorough design reviews of electrical drawings: Balance of Plant, switchyard, and transmission line

    • Define the scope of all required electrical system studies and review results for accuracy and compliance

    • Track design schedules, update all stakeholders, and ensure that critical dates related to electrical engineering tasks are met on time.

    • Support project close out by organizing and transferring all as-built documentation to final project owner including electrical drawings, schematics, bill of materials, electrical studies, and relay settings.

    • Coordinate with operations engineering to incorporate lessons learned into new design reviews and specifications to continuously improve quality

    • Maintain up-to-date knowledge of industry technology through various training sessions and conferences

    • Coordinate information between equipment suppliers, construction contractors, and the engineer of record

  • Procurement and Construction Support

    • Review competitive bids for owner procured electrical material. Support the purchasing of this equipment and manage suppliers throughout the engineering and commissioning process.

    • Monitor construction progress both remotely and via on-site inspections and support resolution of any field issues. Attend on-site meetings with electrical construction contractors and in person coordination meetings with interconnection utilities.

    • Perform factory/equipment inspection and witness factory acceptance testing for major materials.

Minimum Qualifications:

  • Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering or Power Systems,

    or expected graduation in 2026 with Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering or Power Systems.

  • Knowledge of power systems, ideally acquired through specific coursework, and internships.

  • Understanding of HV/MV electrical infrastructure (substations/switchyards, distribution systems, transmission lines, transformers).

  • General knowledge of interpreting and applying common electrical industry standards and codes.

  • Computer proficiency in Microsoft Excel, Word, Visio.

  • Strong verbal and written communications skills.

  • Some travel required (up to 25%).

  • Valid driver's license.

  • Eligible to work in the United States without the need for employer visa sponsorship now or in the future.

Preferred Skills:

  • Master's degree in Electrical Engineering, Power Systems or related.

  • Relevant work experience, including internships.

  • EIT license.

  • Familiarity with ETAP, CYMCAP, EasyPower or similar electrical modeling software.

  • Familiarity with breaker-and-a-half or double-breaker-double-bus switchyards

  • Ability to concurrently coordinate and manage multiple projects with various teams.

  • Thermal energy experience (Natural Gas Peaker plants, combined cycle power plants, or similar), especially direct experience with the turbine-generator supplier.

  • Experience with construction of infrastructure projects

Base Pay

$70,000.00 - $95,000.00 USD Annual
Bonus: 15%

The base pay range reflects the minimum and maximum target salary for the position. Invenergy considers a number of factors when determining base pay offers such as the scope and responsibilities of the position and the candidate's experience, education and skills.
In addition to base pay, the total annual compensation package may also include eligibility to participate in our bonus program(s) which are designed to reward individual and company performance. Your recruiter can share more about bonus eligibility for this position during the hiring process.
Invenergy offers a variety of other benefits including medical, dental and vision insurance, 401k, paid time off, etc.

Invenergy LLC is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to, among other things, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, status as a protected veteran, or disability.


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