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Entry Level Engineer Jobs in Champaign, IL (NOW HIRING)

Prairie Engineers

Entry Level Civil Engineer

Champaign, IL · On-site

$62K - $85K/yr

Build your career with Prairie Engineers, an award-winning firm! Join a collaborative team that fuels your growth and rewards your dedication. We're a team looking to make a lasting impact and want ...

GHR Engineers & Associates, INC.

Be Seen First

Mechanical Design Engineer - HVAC - Entry Level

Champaign, IL · On-site

$65K - $75K/yr

About the Role We are seeking an entry-level Mechanical Designer to join our MEP team. You will ... Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering * A talent for spatial and systems thinking

Constellation Energy

Electrical Engineer

White Heath, IL · On-site

$87K - $154K/yr

Expected salary range: Entry-Level - $87,000 Mid-Level - $92,700 - $114,000 Sr Level - $122,400- $154,000 Primary Purpose of Position Responsible for performing engineering and technical tasks, under ...

Constellation Energy

Electrical Engineer

Farmer City, IL · On-site

$92K - $114K/yr

Expected salary range: Entry-Level - $87,000 Mid-Level - $92,700 - $114,000 Sr Level - $122,400- $154,000 Primary Purpose of Position Responsible for performing engineering and technical tasks, under ...

Constellation Energy

Electrical Engineer

De Land, IL · On-site

$87K - $154K/yr

Expected salary range: Entry-Level - $87,000 Mid-Level - $92,700 - $114,000 Sr Level - $122,400- $154,000 Primary Purpose of Position Responsible for performing engineering and technical tasks, under ...

Constellation Energy

Electrical Engineer

Weldon, IL · On-site

$92K - $114K/yr

Expected salary range: Entry-Level - $87,000 Mid-Level - $92,700 - $114,000 Sr Level - $122,400- $154,000 Primary Purpose of Position Responsible for performing engineering and technical tasks, under ...

Constellation Energy

Electrical Engineer

White Heath, IL · On-site

$92K - $114K/yr

Expected salary range: Entry-Level - $87,000 Mid-Level - $92,700 - $114,000 Sr Level - $122,400- $154,000 Primary Purpose of Position Responsible for performing engineering and technical tasks, under ...

Constellation Energy

Electrical Engineer

Farmer City, IL · On-site

$87K - $154K/yr

Expected salary range: Entry-Level - $87,000 Mid-Level - $92,700 - $114,000 Sr Level - $122,400- $154,000 Primary Purpose of Position Responsible for performing engineering and technical tasks, under ...

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All JobsEngineer JobsEntry Level Engineer JobsEntry Level Engineer Jobs in Champaign, IL

Entry Level Engineer information

See Champaign, IL salary details

$30K

$69.5K

$118.2K

How much do entry level engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level engineer in Champaign, IL is $69,463.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $51,600.00 and $78,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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.

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.

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 certifications in tools like AutoCAD or MATLAB can improve your chances; demonstrating problem-solving abilities and a willingness to learn are also important for employers.

What is the easiest entry level engineer job to get into?

Entry-level engineering roles such as manufacturing, technician, or quality assurance positions are often considered easier to obtain due to lower experience requirements and high demand. These jobs typically require basic technical skills, familiarity with tools or software relevant to the field, and sometimes a relevant certification or associate degree.

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 technical skills such as proficiency in CAD, programming, or specific tools. Additionally, many positions require a bachelor's degree and sometimes certifications, which can limit the pool of qualified applicants and make entry into the field more challenging.
More about Entry Level Engineer jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Engineer jobs in Champaign, IL?

The most popular types of Engineer jobs in Champaign, IL are:

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Engineer jobs in Champaign, IL?

For Entry Level Engineer jobs in Champaign, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Engineer jobs in Champaign, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Engineer jobs in Champaign, IL are:

What cities near Champaign, IL are hiring for Entry Level Engineer jobs?

Cities near Champaign, IL with the most Entry Level Engineer job openings:

Entry Level Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Engineer job openings in Champaign, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 6% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $69,463 per year, or $33.4 per hour.

Entry Level Civil Engineer

Prairie Engineers

Champaign, IL • On-site

$62K - $85K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 5 days ago

Job description

Build your career with Prairie Engineers, an award-winning firm!

Join a collaborative team that fuels your growth and rewards your dedication. We're a team looking to make a lasting impact and want people who embrace challenges, drive change, and help shape our collective future. If that's you, let's connect!

Prairie Engineers is a growing and progressive business. You will find opportunities for career advancement, a diverse range of clients, and varied projects across the nation. We value a people-focused culture, a "can-do" attitude, and responsiveness. Give us your best and we'll give you ours! We offer a flexible work environment, mentoring, and career growth plans to meet your individual needs while providing a competitive salary and benefits. We will accommodate full-time or part-time schedules in our Champaign, Columbia or Springfield, Illinois or Hannibal, Missouri offices.

What you Need:
  • Education: Bachelor's degree in civil engineering from an ABETaccredited university.
  • Primary Interest: Transportation or water resources engineering.
  • Travel: Willingness to travel within the United States to meet project requirements.
  • Safety: Valid driver's license with a clean driving record.
  • Licensure: Current licensure as an Engineer Intern or the ability to obtain with the first 6 months of employment.
    • What you will Do:
  • Planning, design, and construction phase services for a variety of projects and client types.
  • Coordinate staff activities with surveyors, engineers, environmental scientists, and CADD technicians.
    • What you can Add:
  • Software: Experience in GIS, AutoCAD, and Civil 3D
  • Experience: Previous experience or internships
    • How you Align:
  • People Focused: Professional, respectful, and teamoriented with a strong work ethic and the ability to collaborate internally and externally.
  • Can Do Attitude: Positively engages with challenges, facilitates problemsolving, and takes initiative to deliver solutions.
  • Responsive: Communicates openly, proactively, and promptly, with excellent verbal and written communication skills.

    • Salary range: $62,000 - $85,000 determined by education, experience, licensure, and knowledge, skills and abilities of the applicant, as well as internal and external benchmarking.

    Check out the Careers page at prairieengineers.com for details on the attractive benefits package available including 401(k), medical insurance on day one, generous paid time off, professional development, and to find out why employees chose to join our team. All qualified individuals will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, sexual orientation, or gender identity), national origin, age (40 or older), disability, genetic information (including family medical history), or any other legally protected status.

    Potential candidates for this position should include cover letter and resume. We are interested in every qualified candidate who is authorized to work for any employer in the U.S. However, we are unable to sponsor current or future visas for this position.

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