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Entry Level Engineer Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Naperville, IL Contract- 1 Year Client- Nicor Gas Position Overview The Engineer 1 role is an entry-level engineering position responsible for supporting the design, planning, and construction of ...

Naperville, IL Contract- 1 Year Client- Nicor Gas Position Overview The Engineer 1 role is an entry-level engineering position responsible for supporting the design, planning, and construction of ...

New

Naperville, IL Contract- 1 Year Client- Nicor Gas Position Overview The Engineer 1 role is an entry-level engineering position responsible for supporting the design, planning, and construction of ...

New

Entry Level Mechanical Engineer

Chicago, IL ยท On-site

$60K - $70K/yr

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 ...

Entry Level Mechanical Engineer

Chicago, IL ยท Hybrid

$60K - $70K/yr

... Entry Level Mechanical Engineer . This role will support the engineering of systems for a variety of projects while working closely with clients, client reps, architects, and MEP engineers in ...

Showing results 21-40

Entry Level Engineer information

See Illinois salary details

$29.1K

$67.2K

$114.3K

How much do entry level engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level engineer in Illinois is $67,213.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $49,900.00 and $76,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How do I get into entry level engineering with no experience?

Entry level engineering positions often require a relevant degree in engineering or a related field. Gaining practical skills through internships, co-op programs, or personal projects, and learning industry tools like CAD or MATLAB, can improve your chances. Certifications such as Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) can also demonstrate your commitment and knowledge to employers.

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

Entry level engineers often face challenges such as adapting to new tools and technologies, understanding company-specific processes, and translating theoretical knowledge into practical solutions. It's also common to navigate working on multidisciplinary teams and learning effective communication with colleagues from different backgrounds. With guidance from mentors and proactive engagement, these challenges become valuable learning experiences that contribute to professional growth.

Why is it so hard to find an entry-level engineer job?

Entry-level engineering jobs are competitive because employers often seek candidates with relevant internships, project experience, or specific technical skills such as proficiency in CAD, programming, or industry-standard tools. Additionally, many positions require a bachelor's degree in engineering or related fields, and the limited availability of entry-level roles can make the job search challenging for new graduates.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Engineer, you need a foundational understanding of engineering principles, problem-solving abilities, and a relevant bachelor's degree in engineering. Familiarity with industry-standard software such as CAD tools, MATLAB, or project management platforms, as well as relevant internships or certifications, is often expected. Strong communication, teamwork, and adaptability help you collaborate effectively and learn quickly in a dynamic environment. These skills ensure you can contribute to projects, adapt to organizational needs, and grow professionally in the engineering field.

What is the difference between Entry Level Engineer vs Mechanical Engineer?

AspectEntry Level EngineerMechanical Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in engineering or related field; internships helpfulBachelor's degree in mechanical engineering; licensure optional for some roles
Work EnvironmentDesign firms, manufacturing plants, construction sites, labsDesign, testing, manufacturing, research and development
Employer & Industry UsageEntry-level positions across various engineering sectorsMid to senior roles, but entry-level positions are common in manufacturing and design firms

Entry Level Engineers typically have a bachelor's degree and gain hands-on experience through internships. They work in diverse environments like design firms and manufacturing plants. Mechanical Engineers, while often requiring similar credentials, may start in entry-level roles but are more specialized in mechanical systems. Both roles are common in engineering industries, but the term 'Entry Level Engineer' is broader, encompassing various engineering disciplines, including mechanical engineering.

What is an entry level engineer?

An entry-level engineer designs, builds, and maintains the functional aspects of a product, structure, or system for their specific engineering industry. All engineers start out in an entry-level position with fewer responsibilities until they gain work experience. Many start gaining experience through an internship or apprenticeship before moving into an entry-level position. An entry-level engineer job description relates to all of the education requirements, skills, detailed tasks, responsibilities that a company or organization requires for their specific engineering job. For example, civil engineers design, construct, and maintain large infrastructure projects, such as highways, bridges, and airports. Electrical engineers design, monitor, and test electrical systems.

What are the most commonly searched types of Engineer jobs in Illinois?

The most popular types of Engineer jobs in Illinois are:

What cities in Illinois are hiring for Entry Level Engineer jobs?

Cities in Illinois with the most Entry Level Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Engineer job openings in Illinois 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 $67,213 per year, or $32.3 per hour.

Entry-Level Civil Engineer - Transportation

EFK Moen

Chicago, IL โ€ข On-site

$80K - $100K/yr

Full-time

Dental, Vision, Life, PTO

Re-posted 4 days ago


Job description

Entry-Level Civil Engineer – Transportation | www.efkmoen.comJoin a dynamic team shaping the future of transportation infrastructure in Illinois. We are currently seeking an Entry-Level Civil Engineer to support the design of high-impact transportation projects in a collaborative, flexible work environment.This position will report to the Northern Illinois Regional Manager in our office located in downtown Chicago, IL.About EFK MoenEFK Moen, LLC is a civil engineering design consulting firm founded in 1998. With a strong emphasis on transportation, bridge engineering, roadway design, and professional land surveying, our team has delivered over $3 billion in infrastructure projects across multiple states. Our team of professionals is respected across the industry for producing high-quality design documents and innovative solutions.We partner with federal, state, and local agencies and are known for our deep understanding of evolving design guidelines and procedures. By combining the latest technology with diverse experience, we consistently deliver cost-effective, value-engineered solutions that reduce construction costs and improve long-term maintenance.Our services span the full lifecycle of transportation projects-from feasibility studies and public involvement to final PS&E and construction administration. We are proud to be trusted partners in shaping safe, efficient, and resilient infrastructure.Job Description:The Entry-Level Transportation Engineer will perform civil engineering design services in a team-oriented environment. Project emphasis is transportation engineering design for both public and private sectors which range in scope from small to multimillion-dollar designs. Services are provided to a wide range of clients that include state DOTs and other governmental agencies – municipal, county and state.Duties & Responsibilities:Daily production of civil engineering design plansWork as part of a team to deliver quality design that adheres to the project budget and scheduleResponsible and accountable for client/customer satisfaction and technical project executionPerform other job duties as assignedQualifications:Bachelor of Science degree in Civil Engineering from an accredited college/university requiredEIT Certification preferred, or ability to obtain within 6 months of employmentHands-on plan preparation experience for public agency transportation projects preferredFamiliarity with DOT/AASHTO StandardsProficiency in Microstation as well as a related transportation design package (OpenRoads Designer, Geopak), although candidates with an AutoCAD/Civil3D background will also be consideredProficiency with Excel and other general office softwareStrong verbal, written and organizational skillsPhysical Qualifications:Ability to sit and use a computer for extended periodsVisual focus for electronic documents and design softwareSufficient mobility to move to various locations in and out of the office to use various office equipment, coordinate with other staff, visit other EFK Moen and client offices/meeting locationsEFK Moen offers:Paid Time Off (PTO)Paid Company HolidaysPaid Parental LeaveHealth, Dental and Vision Insurance401(k) with Company ContributionCompany sponsored Short and Long-Term disability coverageCompany sponsored life insurance coverageProfessional License exam fee reimbursementBonus OpportunitiesSupport of professional organization membership and activitiesWork-life balance through a flexible, casual work environmentA culture of mentoring and teamworkStarting Salary Range: $80,000-100,000Pay is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.EFK Moen is an Equal Opportunity Employer and Drug Free Workplace. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, protected veterans' status, or any other characteristic protected by law. Our organization participates in E-Verify. Applicants must be authorized to work for any employer in the United States.