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

QC Engineer-Quality

Decatur, IL · On-site

$55K - $63K/yr

This entry-level position is ideal for candidates with a background in business analytics, database ... · Work with engineering, production, and purchasing departments to ensure consistent data ...

Entry Level Engineer information

See Decatur, IL salary details

$29.1K

$67.3K

$114.5K

How much do entry level engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 25, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level engineer in Decatur, IL is $67,279.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $50,000.00 and $76,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What job makes $10,000 a month without a degree?

Entry level engineering roles typically do not pay $10,000 a month without advanced education or significant experience. High-paying jobs that reach this level often require specialized skills, certifications, or experience in fields like software development, sales, or entrepreneurship, rather than entry-level positions. Most roles offering such salaries involve advanced training or industry-specific expertise.

How do I get into 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. Building a strong foundation in math and science and developing problem-solving skills are also important for entry into engineering roles.

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 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 is a recent graduate or someone with minimal professional experience who works in engineering roles under supervision. They assist with basic engineering tasks, learn company procedures, and gain practical experience in their field. Entry level engineers often participate in training, collaborate with experienced professionals, and gradually take on more responsibility as they develop their skills.

Is 40 too late to be an engineer?

Entry level engineering positions typically require a bachelor's degree in engineering or a related field, which can be obtained at any age. Many engineers start their careers later in life, and skills such as problem-solving, technical knowledge, and certifications can be developed at any age to enter the profession.

What Is the Job Description for 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.

Do entry-level engineering jobs exist?

Yes, entry-level engineering jobs are widely available across various industries such as civil, mechanical, electrical, and software engineering. These roles typically require a bachelor's degree in engineering or a related field and may involve tasks like design, testing, or project support, often with opportunities for skill development and certification.
What are the most commonly searched types of Engineer jobs in Decatur, IL? The most popular types of Engineer jobs in Decatur, IL are:
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What job categories do people searching Entry Level Engineer jobs in Decatur, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Engineer jobs in Decatur, IL are:
What cities near Decatur, IL are hiring for Entry Level Engineer jobs? Cities near Decatur, IL with the most Entry Level Engineer job openings:
Entry Level NDT Assistant

Entry Level NDT Assistant

Acuren Inspection, Inc.

Decatur, IL • On-site

$21.63 - $34.13/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 7 hours ago


Acuren rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 37 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

39th of 103 rated laboratories


Job description

Acuren is seeking an Entry Level NDT Assistant for operations in Decatur, IL. LOCAL APPLICANTS ONLY.

This will be a nested position and will be a fast track to NDT Level II. 

NDT Assistants will assist in performing calibrations, Nondestructive Tests, and evaluations for acceptance or rejection determinations according to written instructions and record results.


  • Set up and utilize Nondestructive Test equipment
  • Assist Radiographers in the calibration of NDT equipment
  • Assist Radiographers to conduct tests to ensure quality or detect discontinuities (defects) using NDT methods of inspection
  • Record results of inspections
  • Assist performing NDT procedures, carrying equipment and other operations
  • Perform other job related tasks as assigned by management

  • High School Diploma or equivalent
  • Some college preferred
  • Technical background desired
  • Must be able to have experience, credentials and history to be certified as Trustworthy & Reliable to comply with federal and state regulations, as determined by a thorough background check
  • Motor Vehicle Driving record must meet company standards to drive company vehicles
  • MUST PASS DRUG/ALCOHOL AND BACKGROUND SCREENS PER CLIENT REQUIREMENTS.

  • Competitive Salary
  • Medical, dental, vision, and supplemental insurance
  • 401K Plan
  • Paid Holidays
  • Paid Time Off
  • Pay Transparency: As per applicable state law the job posting pay range is $21.63-34.13/hr depending on experience and applicable certifications.

Acuren is a trusted, single source provider of technology-enabled asset protection solutions used to evaluate the structural integrity of critical energy, industrial and public infrastructures. Committed to delivering a Higher Level of Reliability, Acuren provides an unrivaled spectrum of capabilities including inspection, traditional and advanced NDE/NDT, failure analysis, rope access, materials engineering, field engineering, reliability engineering, drones, robotics, V-Deck and condition-based monitoring services.

Our work is critical to the integrity and safety of industrial firms, including petroleum refinery, pipeline, power generation, pulp & paper, mining, pharmaceutical, aerospace and automotive industries. Acuren employs over 4,000 dedicated professionals supporting the mechanical integrity and inspection programs of the world’s largest industrial segments.

Acuren is a market leader. Our formula for success is straightforward: be capable locally, with certified and well-equipped personnel supported by trained, experienced leaders. Continuing to build on a strong heritage of safety, quality and professionalism, Acuren strives to maintain incident free work environments, pursues advanced technical developments, and supports reliability programs that are valued by clients and employees.  #LI-BE1


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