... Entry-level position with assignments designed to develop a general knowledge of professional engineering practice in the electric utility industry and introduce customer/supplier communication ...
... Entry-level position with assignments designed to develop a general knowledge of professional engineering practice in the electric utility industry and introduce customer/supplier communication ...
Sub-Transmission Planning Engineer I/II/III
Columbus, NE · On-site
$70 - $100/hr
... Entry-level position with assignments designed to develop a general knowledge of professional engineering practice in the electric utility industry and introduce customer/supplier communication ...
Sub-Transmission Planning Engineer I/II/III
Columbus, NE · On-site
$70 - $100/hr
... Entry-level position with assignments designed to develop a general knowledge of professional engineering practice in the electric utility industry and introduce customer/supplier communication ...
... Entry-level position with assignments designed to develop a general knowledge of professional engineering practice in the electric utility industry and introduce customer/supplier communication ...
... Entry-level position with assignments designed to develop a general knowledge of professional engineering practice in the electric utility industry and introduce customer/supplier communication ...
Entry Level Engineer information
See Columbus, NE salary details
$30.3K - $38.4K
2% of jobs
$38.4K - $46.5K
10% of jobs
$51.8K is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$46.5K - $54.5K
20% of jobs
$54.5K - $62.6K
13% of jobs
The median wage is $64.6K / yr.
$62.6K - $70.7K
21% of jobs
$76K is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$70.7K - $78.8K
14% of jobs
$78.8K - $86.9K
7% of jobs
$86.9K - $94.9K
5% of jobs
$94.9K - $103K
3% of jobs
$103K - $111.1K
2% of jobs
$111.1K - $119.2K
2% of jobs
$30.3K
$70.1K
$119.2K
How much do entry level engineer jobs pay per year?
As of Sep 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level engineer in Columbus, NE is $70,059.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $52,000.00 and $79,300.00 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?
| Aspect | Entry Level Engineer | Mechanical Engineer |
|---|---|---|
| Required Credentials | Bachelor's degree in engineering or related field; internships helpful | Bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering; licensure optional for some roles |
| Work Environment | Design firms, manufacturing plants, construction sites, labs | Design, testing, manufacturing, research and development |
| Employer & Industry Usage | Entry-level positions across various engineering sectors | Mid 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 Columbus, NE?
The most popular types of Engineer jobs in Columbus, NE are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Engineer jobs in Columbus, NE?
For Entry Level Engineer jobs in Columbus, NE, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities near Columbus, NE are hiring for Entry Level Engineer jobs?
Cities near Columbus, NE with the most Entry Level Engineer job openings:
Full-time
Medical, Dental, Retirement, PTO
Posted 20 days ago
Key responsibilities
Develop short-term and long-term Subtransmission plans to identify improvements and solve operational problems.
Support operations and maintenance activities related to the sub-transmission system, including troubleshooting and system performance analysis.
Coordinate maintenance-related projects and evaluate proposed configuration changes to maintain asset value.
Nebraska Public Power District rating
8.0
Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz
Job description
Nebraska Public Power District (NPPD) has an immediate opening for a Sub-Transmission Planning Engineer I/II/III located at the Columbus General Office in Columbus, Nebraska. Position will remain open until filled.
Position Summary
Position provides daily support for Operations, Maintenance, trending system performance and initiating actions to restore/improve system performance and reliability, troubleshooting off-normal system conditions, failure and root cause analysis, evaluating proposed configuration changes, recommendations to maintain asset value, and coordinating maintenance-related projects. Assignments are designed to develop general knowledge of professional engineering practice in the electric utility industry and introduce customer/supplier communication skills. In addition to the general engineering activities above, job-specific knowledge and expectations for this individual role will include:
Sub-transmission Planning: Develop short-term and long-term Subtransmission plans and provide operational support in the area of Subtransmission planning. These plans identify improvements required to serve projected load increases and help solve operational problems.
Education, Training and Experience
Level I to Level III is considered a progression and is approved by the appropriate manager. District engineering positions are managed under the Engineering Technical Career Path.
Level I:
Bachelor's degree in engineering from an Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET) accredited university or college is required, or Professional Engineering (PE) License and bachelor's degree in engineering from a non-ABET accredited school is required.
Entry-level position with assignments designed to develop a general knowledge of professional engineering practice in the electric utility industry and introduce customer/supplier communication skills.
Level II:
Bachelor's degree in engineering from an ABET accredited university or college, or Professional Engineering License obtained by accredited examination.
Second-level position with assignments designed to develop competent technical knowledge within an engineering discipline, develop customer relation skills, and introduce project management skills.
Level III:
Bachelor's degree in engineering from an ABET accredited university or college, or Professional Engineering License obtained by accredited examination.
A fully competent engineer in conventional aspects within the specific discipline with expertise in specific areas of past assignments. Assignments designed to expand the areas of expertise within the discipline, develop project management skills, and develop a general knowledge of other disciplines.
Licenses and/or Certifications
Engineer III - Must have successfully passed the Engineering in Training (EIT) / Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) examination.
Essential Duties & Responsibilities
Level I:
Performs tasks of limited and specific scope under the direction of experienced personnel. Applies standard engineering practices and techniques utilizing prescribed methods in carrying out a sequence of related engineering tasks. Judgment is required on details of work, such as correlating data and recognizing discrepancies in results. Communicates with customers and suppliers as directed by supervision.
Level II:
Performs tasks of limited and specific scope under the direction of experienced personnel. Plans and conducts detailed phases of work in support of multiple assignments as well as managing assignments of moderate scope. Independently selects and applies standard engineering techniques and procedures utilizing prescribed methods in carrying out a sequence of related engineering tasks. Includes some complex features. Work requires a broad knowledge within the discipline and development of expertise in specific areas of work assignment. Judgment is required on details of work, such as correlating data and recognizing discrepancies in results. Communicates with customers and suppliers, as needed.
Level III:
Performs detailed development, planning, and implementation of numerous concurrent assignments of moderate scope. Performs work which includes a variety of complex features, such as unique operating conditions, conflicting design requirements, unsuitability of conventional materials or methods, or difficult coordination requirements. Performs as a consultant in technical specialties to determine and assess technical and economic feasibility and soundness of proposed engineering solutions as well as analysis of unusual operating conditions. Communicates with customers concerning needs and work status. Work generally requires a broad range of knowledge within the specific engineering discipline with expertise in numerous areas and general knowledge of other engineering disciplines.
Accountable for other duties as assigned.
Core Competencies
Customer Focus
Employees & Teamwork/Diversity & Inclusion
Integrity/Excellence
Public Service/Environmental Stewardship
Safety
Salary Information - Nebraska Public Power District offers a competitive starting salary with opportunities for growth. In addition to the base salary range listed below, NPPD employees may also be eligible for our Annual Incentive Program (AIP) that may supplement total compensation at a level above and beyond the stated salary range. Successful applicants will be provided more information regarding the incentive program at the time of an interview.
Engineer Level I: Exempt Pay Grade 12
Engineer Level II: Exempt Pay Grade 13
Engineer Level III: Exempt Pay Grade 14
Typical Pay Grade Starting Salary Range:
Exempt Pay Grade 12: $6,837 - $9,715 per month
Exempt Pay Grade 13: $7,668 - $10,897 per month
Exempt Pay Grade 14: $8,720 - $12,738 per month
Travel Required: Up to 25% (With no or minimal overnight stays, less than 3 per month, typically within state of Nebraska) Travel required may fluctuate by business need. This is an estimate and will be discussed further with candidates that receive an interview.
Nebraska Public Power District offers a competitive starting salary and an excellent benefits package including medical and dental insurance, 401K retirement plan, paid holidays, paid vacation, paid medical, training opportunities and more.
If you are an individual with a disability and would like to request a reasonable accommodation as part of the employment selection process, please contact Human Resources at Nebraska Public Power District.
Nebraska Public Power District is an Equal Opportunity Employer
What Nebraska Public Power District employees say
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About Nebraska Public Power District
Sourced by ZipRecruiter
Company size
1,001 - 5,000 Employees
Headquarters location
Columbus, NE, US
Year founded
1970