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Entry Level Engineer Jobs in Hilo, HI (NOW HIRING)

Entry Level Engineer information

See Hilo, HI salary details

$30.6K

$70.7K

$120.3K

How much do entry level engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level engineer in Hilo, HI is $70,724.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $52,500.00 and $80,000.00 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.

What are the most commonly searched types of Engineer jobs in Hilo, HI?

The most popular types of Engineer jobs in Hilo, HI are:

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Engineer jobs in Hilo, HI?

For Entry Level Engineer jobs in Hilo, HI, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities near Hilo, HI are hiring for Entry Level Engineer jobs?

Cities near Hilo, HI with the most Entry Level Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Engineer job openings in Hilo, HI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 10% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $70,724 per year, or $34 per hour.

Field/Office Engineer - MEC Industrial (Entry-Level)

Mass. Electric Construction Co.

Hilo, HI • On-site

$82K - $96K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 7 days ago


Job description

Requisition ID: 181656
Job Level: Entry Level
Home District/Group: MEC Industrial District
Department: Field Operations
Market: Industrial
Employment Type: Full Time
Position Overview
As a Field Engineer, you bring your big ideas, commitment to top quality and unwavering work ethic. In return, we offer huge career and travel opportunities and the satisfaction of building "the next big thing" from the ground up. There's a reason Mass Electric (MEC) attracts the best: we offer fast-paced excitement and fulfillment you won't find anywhere else. Our mission is to make a difference and we offer opportunities for you to make make a difference in our construction operations. Whether we’re boring tunnels through mountains, turning rivers into energy or building bridges that connect communities, we depend on our passionate, skilled, and safety-obsessed construction professionals to get it done right.
District Overview
Mass Electric Construction Co. is a subsidiary of the Kiewit Corporation.  Since our founding in 1928 in Boston, Massachusetts, Mass. Electric Construction’s philosophy has been to pursue electrical projects that require a higher level of technical and logistical skill. MEC Industrial has organized strategically to actively participate and capture projects in the growing industrial market.  We intend to effectively compete and win in traditional and alternate delivery procurements and position ourselves for a sustainable future. We self-perform the majority of our work and are looking for people committed to the industrial construction industry.
Location
One of the many things that makes our culture unique is that we go where the work is, which exposes your career to abundant opportunities. We relocate our teams based on the work that is available, combined with the development plans, skill sets and career goals of each team member. This means your MEC adventure is custom-designed to meet our shared needs. MEC Industrial is based out of Waltham, MA and has work all across the country. Job assignment location will be determined closer to your start date. Must be able to travel and relocate as frequently as business needs require. These projects are happening in large cities and small towns, so you have a chance to experience it all!
Responsibilities
  • Field engineering, operation planning, cost control, project scheduling, quantity tracking, material procurement, contract administration, estimating & supervision of field activities
  • Performing engineering tasks requiring standard techniques and handling minor problems of a technical nature arising during construction
  • Maintaining records as required regarding job progress, costs, material usage, etc.
  • Planning and scheduling of job and/or job segments
  • Investigating problems and/or reported incidents; identifying and recommending solutions/alternatives as appropriate
  • Reviewing plans and specifications to determine material requirements (quantities and qualities), pricing of materials, etc.
  • Working with suppliers as required facilitating the handling and expediting delivery of materials
Qualifications
  • Undergraduate or graduate degree in construction management, construction engineering, civil engineering, electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, engineering technology or equivalent combination of education and experience.
  • Minimum overall GPA of 2.7
  • Proficient knowledge of Microsoft Excel, Word and PowerPoint
  • Attention to detail with the ability to recognize discrepancies
  • Strong organizational and time management skills
  • Effective verbal, written and presentation skills
  • Able to work independently as well as part of a team
  • Must be able to access all points of a construction site
  • Ability to freely access all points of a construction site in a wide-ranging climates and environments
  • Highly motivated, with a demonstrated passion for excellence and taking initiative
  • Strong work ethic, willing to do what it takes to get the job done right the first time
  • Demonstrated commitment to ethics and integrity
  • Passion for safety, with the ability to help us ensure that nobody gets hurt
  • Team player with the ability to work independently to meet deadlines, goals, and objectives
Other common names for this role: Project Engineer, Office Engineer, Engineer 1
Other Requirements:
  • Regular, reliable attendance
  • Work productively and meet deadlines timely
  • Communicate and interact effectively and professionally with supervisors, employees, and others individually or in a team environment
  • Perform work safely and effectively. Understand and follow oral and written instructions, including warning signs, equipment use, and other policies.
  • Work during normal operating hours to organize and complete work within given deadlines. Work overtime and weekends as required.
Base Compensation: $82,000/yr - $96,000
(Actual compensation is subject to variation due to such factors as education, experience, skillset, and/or location)
We offer our fulltime staff employees a comprehensive benefits package that’s among the best in our industry, including top-tier medical, dental and vision plans covering eligible employees and dependents, voluntary wellness and employee assistance programs, life insurance, disability, retirement plans with matching, and generous paid time off.
Equal Opportunity Employer, including disability and protected veteran status.