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Entry Level Engineering Manager Jobs in Illinois

About DMC DMC is a leading engineering consulting firm, delivering high-caliber engineering and ... Manage tasks with project teams, prioritizing needs and addressing risks and roadblocks * Consult ...

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Entry Level Engineering Manager information

See Illinois salary details

$45.1K

$142.3K

$168.6K

How much do entry level engineering manager jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level engineering manager in Illinois is $142,319.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $112,900.00 and $167,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry level engineering manager?

An Entry Level Engineering Manager is a professional who has recently moved into a leadership role overseeing a team of engineers, often after gaining technical experience as an engineer. Their responsibilities typically include coordinating projects, managing team performance, mentoring junior engineers, and facilitating communication between technical staff and upper management. While they may still contribute technically, their primary focus shifts to leadership, project management, and supporting their team's growth and productivity. This role serves as a stepping stone to higher management positions within engineering organizations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level engineering manager?

To thrive as an Entry Level Engineering Manager, you typically need a bachelor’s degree in engineering, foundational leadership abilities, and experience with project coordination or team supervision. Familiarity with project management tools (like Jira or Asana), engineering software relevant to your field, and potentially a Project Management Professional (PMP) certification are valuable. Strong communication, problem-solving, and motivational skills help you guide teams and foster collaboration. These skills and qualifications are crucial for ensuring project success, team productivity, and smooth transition from technical roles to leadership responsibilities.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level engineering managers as they transition from individual contributor roles?

Entry level engineering managers often find it challenging to balance technical tasks with new leadership responsibilities. Shifting from hands-on engineering work to managing people, projects, and priorities requires developing strong communication, delegation, and conflict resolution skills. Additionally, learning to advocate for team members while aligning with organizational goals can be demanding. Many new managers rely on mentorship, ongoing training, and feedback from peers to successfully navigate these adjustments.

What is the difference between Entry Level Engineering Manager vs Software Engineer?

AspectEntry Level Engineering ManagerSoftware Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in engineering or related field; some leadership trainingBachelor's degree in computer science or related field
Work EnvironmentTeam leadership, project management, cross-department collaborationDesign, develop, and test software applications
Employer & Industry UsageTech companies, manufacturing, engineering firmsTech companies, startups, software firms
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding entry-level management roles in engineeringComparing engineering roles at entry level

The Entry Level Engineering Manager typically focuses on overseeing engineering projects, leading teams, and coordinating efforts within technical environments. In contrast, a Software Engineer primarily concentrates on designing and developing software solutions. While both roles may require similar educational backgrounds, the manager role emphasizes leadership and project oversight, whereas the software engineer role centers on technical development tasks.

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

The most popular types of Engineering Manager jobs in Illinois are:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Engineering Manager 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 $142,319 per year, or $68.4 per hour.

Associate AV Tech / Junior Programmer

Pearl Companies

Peoria Heights, IL

Full-time

Re-posted 29 days ago


Job description

Associate Av Tech / Junior Programmer

The Associate AV Tech / Junior Programmer's primary role is to define, develop, test, analyze, and maintain new software applications in support of the achievement of business requirements. This includes writing, coding, testing, and analyzing software programs and applications. The Entry-Level Programmer will also research, design, document, and modify software specifications on an ongoing basis. Additionally, the Entry-Level Programmer will support trouble tickets and staging activities.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

Interfaces with Client:

  • Interfaces with client as needed to ensure full understanding of clients' needs close any gaps from a technical delivery standpoint as to ensure Pearl delivers and clients' needs, and expectations are met.
  • Responds to service calls and processes trouble tickets.

Programming and Configuration:

  • Performs network configuration, device configuration and connectivity before programming.
  • Documents relevant device information including IP addresses, Mac addresses, etc.
  • Following configuration, programs DSP, control system, user interface design and programming.
  • Perform system staging and project preparation activities.

Commissioning:

  • Following each installation, performs on-site testing to ensure proper functionality of all programmed/configured devices per system design and expectations.
  • Troubleshoots and remedies system inadequacies when present.
  • Performs audio tuning so proper levels are achieved Tuning prior to client use.
  • Backs up all programming related files (e.g. code, configurations, network sheets, etc.)
  • Develops user documentation (e.g. user guides) to aide in the delivery of an optimal user experience.

Administrative:

  • Documents time accurately to ensure proper allocation of project hours.
  • Helps maintain AV knowledge base.
  • Forwards original copies of any earned certifications to HR for safekeeping, provision to clients upon request, and monitoring.
  • Immediately forwards receipts for any purchases for company use to accounting department, annotates receipts with name, project name or other description (e.g. parking fee, etc.) and date. Payments made with cash should be marked as such for reimbursement, if applicable.
  • Secures and maintains all company property in good condition; immediately reports lost, stolen, and maintenance needs to supervisor.
  • Safeguards confidential information and follows recordkeeping guidelines to properly dispose of any material that is no longer relevant or useful.

Professional Development:

  • Learns new programming languages that complement the shift towards modern programming, in addition to proprietary tools (e.g. Crestron, AMX, Extron, QSC, etc...) and/or as required to meet project implementation needs.
  • Furthers industry knowledge through practical learning, either formally or informally.
  • Keeps current with changes in technology, company capability, general business practices.
  • Attends, supports, and actively participates in company-sponsored meetings, educational activities, associated with the industry or the company objectives.

Conduct:

  • Adheres to company-issued handbook, policies, procedures, standards for job performance and workplace behaviors, and other guidelines as set forth by the company.
  • Performs job tasks in a safe manner and as prescribed, promptly reports all work-related incidents and/or safety issues to appropriate management.
  • Represents IAS professionally (e.g. in dress, communications, promptness, etc.) and in a manner that reflects the company's high standard for ethical conduct, in all dealings.

Qualifications:

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

  • Basic IT knowledge (e.g. IP address recognition, ability to follow direction to adjust software).
  • Ability to effectively multi-task, frequently switching between job projects, tasks, and/or redirect without notice.
  • Ability to learn quickly, with the desire and initiative to attain knowledge beneficial to improving performance and/or gaining industry knowledge.
  • Organized with attention to detail.
  • Results-oriented; ability to manage time and projects effectively thereby sustains productivity with little or no supervision.
  • Communication skills to effectively communicate system capabilities and limitations to internal constituents.
  • Solution-focused and ability to apply reasonable logic to troubleshoot and resolve issues.
  • Advanced knowledge and certifications specific to control system programming (Crestron, AMX, Extron, QSC, etc.)

Education and Experience:

  • High school diploma or equivalent required.
  • CTS required within 6 months of initial employment.
  • Programming experience strongly preferred.
  • Strong interest and desire to learn programming, correlating education helpful.

Physical Requirements:

  • Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk, working on a computer and/or telephone.
  • Move or transport audiovisual equipment up to 50 pounds, independently.
  • Travel locally/regionally up to 90%, and nationally or internationally, on occasion (up to 10%). Overnight lodging may be required for jobs with distances exceeding two hours of work office.
  • Must be able to communicate and converse with employees and various external customers professionally and effectively exchange accurate information.
  • Operates computer regularly, and other office equipment as needed.
  • Ability to drive to/from worksites, meetings, and/or trainings regularly and/or as requested; valid driver's license and proof of insurance required.

Equal Opportunity Employer This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.