2

Entry Level Engineering Jobs in Crystal Lake, IL

Be Seen First

Position: Entry- Level Manufacturing Engineer Job Type : Direct Hire Pay: $65,000 - $82,000 ... Bachelor's Degree in Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or Civil Engineering. * Strong ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Entry Level Engineering information

See Crystal Lake, IL salary details

$29.1K

$67.3K

$114.4K

How much do entry level engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level engineering in Crystal Lake, IL is $67,266.00, 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 Crystal Lake, IL? The most popular types of Engineering jobs in Crystal Lake, IL are:
What cities near Crystal Lake, IL are hiring for Entry Level Engineering jobs? Cities near Crystal Lake, IL with the most Entry Level Engineering job openings:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Engineering job openings in Crystal Lake, IL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $67,266 per year, or $32.3 per hour.

Entry Level Manufacturing Engineer

Just In Time Staffing LLC

Elgin, IL • On-site

$65K - $82K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, PTO

Re-posted 14 days ago

Be Seen First

After you apply to this job, you can share why you’re interested to jump to the top of the candidate list.


Job description

Position: Entry- Level Manufacturing Engineer

Job Type: Direct Hire

Pay: $65,000 - $82,000 depending on experience

Hours: Day Shift (Occasional Off-Shift or On-Call Support Required) 

Location: Elgin, IL 

Requirements: Resume, Interview, E-verify

Benefits: Health, Dental, Vision, Supplemental life, and short-term disability insurance, basic life insurance and AD&D coverage, PTO. 

We are seeking an Entry-Level Manufacturing Engineer to join our team and play a key role in supporting production operations in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.

This is not a desk job. You'll spend the majority of your time on the production floor working directly with operators, maintenance technicians, and production equipment to troubleshoot issues, improve reliability, and support continuous improvement initiatives.

Responsibilities

Equipment Troubleshooting & Production Support

  • Respond to equipment breakdowns and production line stoppages.
  • Diagnose and resolve mechanical, electrical, pneumatic, and process-related issues.
  • Work closely with maintenance technicians and production operators to restore equipment and minimize downtime.
  • Identify recurring equipment failures and help implement long-term corrective actions.
  • Support preventive maintenance programs and spare parts management.

Automation & Controls

  • Assist with troubleshooting and maintaining automated production equipment.
  • Support conveyors, fillers, packaging systems, sensors, motors, and PLC-controlled equipment.
  • Participate in equipment upgrades, installations, and sensor calibrations.
  • Develop troubleshooting skills for both mechanical and controls-related issues.

Continuous Improvement

  • Observe manufacturing processes and identify opportunities to improve efficiency, throughput, quality, and waste reduction.
  • Assist with process improvement projects and Lean Manufacturing initiatives.
  • Document procedures, equipment modifications, and process changes.
  • Support safety, quality, and food-safety compliance requirements.

Qualifications

Required

  • Bachelor's Degree in Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or Civil Engineering.
  • Strong problem-solving and troubleshooting skills.
  • Ability to work in a manufacturing environment, including standing, walking, lifting, exposure to noise, and varying temperatures.
  • Strong communication and teamwork skills.

Preferred

  • Internship, co-op, lab, shop, automotive, robotics, or other hands-on technical experience.
  • Exposure to PLCs, sensors, motors, pneumatics, HMIs, or basic ladder logic through coursework or projects.
  • Experience in food, beverage, pharmaceutical, or other GMP-regulated manufacturing environments.
  • Familiarity with CAD software.
  • Understanding of Lean Manufacturing, Continuous Improvement, or CMMS systems.


Company Description

Just In Time Staffing seeks to pair top candidates with opportunities that will be mutually beneficial for both them and the employers.