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Entry Level Engineering Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

We have been retained by a well established construction and engineering firm that is seeking a ... This Staff Accountant role is perfect for an entry level finance or accounting college graduate who ...

New

Quality/Test Engineer

Chillicothe, IL · On-site

$70K - $95K/yr

We are seeking an entry level to experienced candidate to become an integral part of our engineering team. The selected candidate will work with an experienced engineering staff using ...

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Entry Level Engineering information

See Illinois salary details

$29.1K

$67.2K

$114.3K

How much do entry level engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level engineering in Illinois is $67,213.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $49,900.00 and $76,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Entry Level Engineering vs Mechanical Engineering?

AspectEntry Level EngineeringMechanical Engineering
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in engineering or related fieldBachelor's degree in mechanical engineering; often requires licensure for advanced roles
Work EnvironmentInternships, entry-level positions in offices, labs, or manufacturing plantsDesign, analysis, testing in offices, labs, manufacturing facilities
Employer & Industry UsageEngineering firms, manufacturing, construction, technology companiesManufacturing, automotive, aerospace, energy sectors

Entry Level Engineering typically involves foundational engineering tasks with a bachelor's degree, often in various disciplines, and is used across many industries. Mechanical Engineering is a specialized field focusing on design, analysis, and manufacturing of mechanical systems, often requiring specific technical skills and licensure for advanced roles. Both roles share similar work environments but differ in specialization and scope.

How to 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, certifications, or personal projects can improve your chances, and demonstrating proficiency with tools like CAD or programming languages can be beneficial for entry-level candidates.

What is an entry level engineer?

Entry level engineering jobs are positions designed for recent graduates or individuals with limited professional experience in the engineering field. These roles typically involve assisting senior engineers with projects, performing basic technical tasks, and gaining hands-on experience in a specific engineering discipline such as civil, mechanical, electrical, or software engineering. Entry level engineers often receive on-the-job training and mentoring to develop their skills and advance their careers. These roles serve as a foundation for future growth and specialization within the engineering industry.

How to get hired as an entry-level engineer?

To get hired as an entry-level engineer, candidates should obtain a relevant bachelor's degree in engineering or a related field, develop practical skills through internships or projects, and demonstrate proficiency with industry tools and software. Building a strong resume that highlights technical skills, problem-solving abilities, and teamwork experience increases employment prospects. Certifications such as Engineer-in-Training (EIT) can also enhance job opportunities.

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 solid educational background in engineering fundamentals, strong problem-solving abilities, and proficiency in mathematics, usually obtained through a relevant bachelor's degree. Familiarity with technical tools such as CAD software, industry-specific modeling programs, and basic project management systems is typically expected. Effective communication, teamwork, and a willingness to learn are important soft skills that help you integrate into engineering teams and adapt to new challenges. These skills and qualities are vital for ensuring accurate technical work, smooth collaboration, and ongoing professional development in a dynamic engineering environment.

What types of projects and responsibilities can I expect as an entry level engineer?

As an entry-level engineer, you’ll typically begin by supporting more senior engineers on a variety of projects, which may include drafting designs, running simulations, conducting data analysis, or assisting with testing and troubleshooting. Your daily tasks will often involve collaborating with team members, participating in meetings, and learning industry-specific tools and software. Over time, you'll gain more responsibility, such as managing small project components or communicating directly with clients. This role is designed to help you build foundational technical skills while gaining exposure to different aspects of engineering within your organization.

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

The most popular types of Engineering jobs in Illinois are:

What cities in Illinois are hiring for Entry Level Engineering jobs?

Cities in Illinois with the most Entry Level Engineering job openings:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Engineering job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 4% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 87% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $67,213 per year, or $32.3 per hour.

Associate AV Tech / Junior Programmer

Pearl Technology

Peoria Heights, IL • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 23 days ago


Job description

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 (Other duties may be assigned)

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: 

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.  Employees are limited to executing job responsibilities that align with the requirements provided herein.  Reasonable accommodations may be considered to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

  • 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.