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Entry Level Energy Systems Engineering Jobs in Chicago, IL

Infobahn SoftWorld Inc

Systems Engineer

Elgin, IL · On-site

Apply system engineering and requirements management tools and techniques. * Communicate ... Windows and Google programs preferable Required Experience Level: Entry Level Work Environment:

IvyTech

Energy Audit Intern

Valparaiso, IN · On-site

$14.75 - $19/hr

Currently pursuing or recently completed a degree in Engineering, Environmental Science, Energy Management, Sustainability, Architecture, or a related field * Basic understanding of energy systems ...

Nano Nuclear Energy Inc

Experienced Professionals

Oak Brook, IL · On-site +1

$99K - $119K/yr

Through the development of its KRONOS MMR Energy System, LOKI MMR Energy System, and ZEUS Solid ... A collaborative engineering culture focused on innovation and technical excellence. * Opportunities ...

Resource Innovations

Energy Engineer

Chicago, IL · Remote

Develop and review engineering calculations to quantify energy and cost savings using spreadsheets ... Evaluate energy impacts for measures related to HVAC systems and controls, lighting, compressed air ...

Resource Innovations

Energy Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site +1

Develop and review engineering calculations to quantify energy and cost savings using spreadsheets ... Evaluate energy impacts for measures related to HVAC systems and controls, lighting, compressed air ...

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All JobsEnergy Systems Engineering JobsEntry Level Energy Systems Engineering JobsEntry Level Energy Systems Engineering Jobs in Chicago, IL

Entry Level Energy Systems Engineering information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$41.7K

$89K

$146.8K

How much do entry level energy systems engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level energy systems engineering 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 does an entry level energy systems engineer do?

Entry level energy systems engineers assist in the design, analysis, and optimization of energy systems such as renewable power plants, energy storage solutions, and grid infrastructure. They often work under the supervision of senior engineers to conduct research, perform simulations, and support project development. Their responsibilities may also include data collection, system modeling, and helping ensure projects comply with environmental and safety standards.

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

To thrive as an Entry Level Energy Systems Engineer, you need a solid background in engineering principles, energy systems, and mathematics, typically supported by a bachelor's degree in mechanical, electrical, or energy engineering. Familiarity with simulation software (like MATLAB or HOMER), energy modeling tools, and proficiency in CAD systems are commonly required. Strong problem-solving skills, teamwork, and effective communication help you collaborate and present technical information clearly. These skills and qualities are essential for designing efficient energy solutions and supporting sustainable projects in a multidisciplinary environment.

What are some typical projects an entry level energy systems engineer might work on, and how do they contribute to larger team goals?

As an entry-level energy systems engineer, you might work on projects such as conducting energy audits, assisting with the design and modeling of renewable energy systems, or analyzing building energy consumption data. These tasks usually involve collaborating closely with senior engineers, project managers, and sometimes clients to ensure solutions are both efficient and sustainable. Your contributions help the team optimize energy use, reduce costs, and implement innovative technologies, providing a solid foundation for your professional growth and understanding of the industry.

What is the difference between Entry Level Energy Systems Engineering vs Entry Level Electrical Engineering?

AspectEntry Level Energy Systems EngineeringEntry Level Electrical Engineering
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Energy Systems, Mechanical, or Electrical EngineeringBachelor's in Electrical Engineering or related field
Work EnvironmentRenewable energy sites, power plants, consulting firmsUtilities, manufacturing, technology companies
Industry UsageFocus on energy efficiency, renewable integration, grid systemsPower systems, electronics, circuit design

Entry Level Energy Systems Engineering roles typically focus on renewable energy, energy efficiency, and grid integration, requiring knowledge of energy systems and sustainability. Entry Level Electrical Engineering roles are broader, covering electronics, power systems, and circuit design. Both roles often require similar degrees but differ in industry focus and daily tasks.

What are the most commonly searched types of Energy Systems Engineering jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Energy Systems Engineering jobs in Chicago, IL are:

Entry Level Energy Systems Engineering jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Energy Systems Engineering job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, and 17% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $88,985 per year, or $42.8 per hour.

Entry-Level Energy Efficiency Engineer **Fall 2026 Career Fair Applicants**

Chicago, IL • On-site

Michaels Energy
Industrial Machinery Manufacturing • 51 - 200 employees
Learn more about Michaels Energyexternal

$80K - $88K/yr

Full-time

Posted 9 days ago

Job description

Who is Michaels Energy?
Michaels Energy is a veteran-owned energy consulting firm that exists to help businesses minimize waste and maximize value. Our energy and engineering gurus are obsessed with optimizing buildings and processes to maximize energy savings and profits, minimize utility grid stress and carbon footprints, and keep this big, beautiful planet in tip-top shape. Our passion is developing long-term client relationships with energy users, utilities, consultants, and partners. This passion combined with our core values of proactive and responsive service, intuitive analysis, collaborative partnerships, and fanatical execution, forms the foundation of our corporate culture.
We're proud to share that Michaels Energy is one of Inc.'s Best Workplaces of 2024 & 2025. This award is given to workplaces that foster an environment where employees willingly go above and beyond in their work, advocate for the organization, and intend to stay in the future.
What is the role?
We're looking for entry-level engineers who are passionate about energy conservation AND have the technical chops to tackle energy cost-saving projects for all types of buildings. In this role, you can use that passion to help building owners, utilities, consultants and partners save energy and lower utility bills. Client and customer communication is also very important in this role. An engineer in this position will perform energy assessments on commercial and industrial buildings, recommend changes to building automation systems, perform energy calculations, and write reports.
Technical tasks include identifying energy efficiency measures, diagnosing building HVAC control issues, assessing equipment condition, estimating project costs, and performing site visits. Client and customer communication is critical in this role. Types of communication include meetings, presentations, and non-technical and technical writing. Work may also include working with data centers, verifying new construction projects, energy modeling using OpenStudio, custom rebate analysis, industrial new construction projects, developing regression models, and on-going energy consulting of individual customers through strategic energy management. We are looking for an engineer who is passionate about energy efficiency and removing barriers for the customer that will result in the implementation of projects.
After 3 months, you have
  • Learned company processes and procedures
  • Completed at least two energy audits independently
  • Completed at least one verification site visit with another engineer
  • Learned program rules and processes

After 6 months, you have
  • Fully trained on at least one energy efficiency program
  • Led customer meetings and project report outs
  • Completed at least ten audits independently

What are we looking for?
  • Bachelor's degree, preferably in mechanical, chemical, or building systems engineering
  • Zero to six years experience combining any of the following:
    • Energy efficiency industry - e.g., utilities or performance contracting
    • HVAC operations, controls, and/or building energy investigations
    • Utility program experience in retro-commissioning, ASHRAE level 2 energy audits, or custom rebate calculations
    • Software-based building energy modeling
    • Managing building retrofit projects
    • Design or implementation of HVAC Controls
    • Building codes/safety standards
    • HVAC consulting/design-build engineer
  • EIT or PE (Professional Engineer) is preferred but not required
  • Excels at communicating complicated ideas to a variety of audiences
  • Skilled at interfacing with contractors and building owners
  • Deep interest in energy, systems, and process efficiency, and improving productivity
  • Lifetime self-learner
  • Ability to travel up to 30% regionally

Where can you work?
  • Chicago, Denver, Boston, or central Virginia
  • You will have the option to work in the office, work from home, or hybrid.

Pay Scale
$80,000 to $88,000 annually
Physical Requirements
  • Sit, stand, and walk moderate distances.
  • Frequently lift or move objects up to 10 pounds.
  • Occasionally lift or move objects up to 50 pounds.
  • Occasionally crawl on the floor and climb ladders.

Why work for Michaels Energy?
  • The top reasons Michaels Energy is an awesome place to work, besides helping the world save energy.
  • We Never Stop Learning
  • Flexible Work Hours
  • Collaborative
  • Career Development
  • Beer Fridays
  • Fresh Fruit Daily
  • Wellness Rewards
  • Fun Company Outings

Michaels Energy Diversity Statement
We strive to build and nurture a culture that is inclusive and welcoming for all employees. We know diversity and inclusion are essential to innovation, a strong work environment and exceptional results. This fits in well with our culture that celebrates the unique, the different, and the individual. For us, this is who are and what we do, not just words in a policy.

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