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Entry Level Graduate Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Showing results 41-60

Entry Level Graduate information

See Illinois salary details

$24.2K

$46.3K

$66.4K

How much do entry level graduate jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level graduate in Illinois is $46,349.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $39,200.00 and $50,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are entry level graduate jobs?

Entry level graduate jobs are positions designed for recent university or college graduates who typically have little to no professional work experience in their chosen field. These roles provide foundational training, mentorship, and opportunities to develop practical skills relevant to their degree. Entry level jobs help graduates transition from academic studies into the workforce and often serve as stepping stones for career advancement. Common examples include graduate trainee programs, junior analyst roles, and assistant positions in various industries.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level graduate, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Graduate, you need a relevant academic degree, foundational knowledge in your field, and a willingness to learn. Familiarity with productivity tools like Microsoft Office or Google Workspace, and sometimes introductory certifications, are commonly expected. Strong communication, adaptability, and problem-solving skills help you integrate into teams and handle new challenges effectively. These skills and qualities are crucial for quickly acclimating to professional environments and contributing value early in your career.

What can I expect from the onboarding process as an entry level graduate in a professional organization?

As an entry level graduate, you can typically expect a structured onboarding process that introduces you to the company's culture, policies, and your specific job responsibilities. This process often includes training sessions, mentorship from experienced colleagues, and opportunities to shadow team members. You'll likely participate in team meetings and gradually take on more independent tasks as you become familiar with the workflow. The onboarding period is designed to help you build foundational skills and confidence, while also providing a support network to answer any questions as you settle into your new role.

What is the difference between Entry Level Graduate vs Junior Software Developer?

AspectEntry Level GraduateJunior Software Developer
Required CredentialsDegree in relevant field, possibly some internshipsDegree in computer science or related, some coding experience
Work EnvironmentTraining programs, mentorship, entry-level tasksDeveloping software, coding, debugging
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, training programs, tech companiesTech firms, startups, software companies
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding entry-level roles, career startJob responsibilities, skill requirements

Entry Level Graduate positions are typically designed for recent graduates with minimal work experience, focusing on training and development. Junior Software Developers are more specialized roles requiring some coding skills and are involved in actual software development tasks. While both roles serve as starting points in tech careers, Junior Software Developers usually have clearer technical responsibilities compared to the broader training focus of Entry Level Graduate roles.

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

The most popular types of Graduate jobs in Illinois are:

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

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

Infographic showing various Entry Level Graduate job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,349 per year, or $22.3 per hour.

Entry-Level Civil Inspection Engineer (50349)

Collins Engineers, Inc

Chicago, IL

Full-time

Re-posted 29 days ago


Job description

Collins is an ENR Top 500 Design Firm. We have opportunities for you.

Collins has an opening for an Entry-Level Engineer in our Chicago, IL office to join our Structural Inspection Group. In this role, you will primarily assist with bridge and transportation structure inspections, condition assessments, and report preparation, with exposure to design-related tasks as needed. You will be mentored by experienced inspection engineers in both the office and the field. This position offers a unique opportunity to gain hands-on field experience, build a strong understanding of structural behavior, and develop inspection and documentation skills within the transportation industry.

Typical Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Perform field inspections of bridges and transportation-related structures under the supervision of licensed professional engineers.
  • Assist in the preparation of inspection, evaluation, and condition assessment reports.
  • Document field observations, measurements, and photographs in accordance with agency and inspection standards.
  • Support review of structure plans, load ratings, and previous inspection records to aid in inspection and assessment efforts.
  • Use computer-assisted engineering and inspection software to prepare report exhibits, sketches, calculations, and supporting documentation.
  • Perform limited design computations or quantity estimates related to inspection findings, repair concepts, or rehabilitation alternatives (as applicable).
  • Coordinate with draftspersons/technicians on figures, data entry, and report preparation.
  • Includes limited communication with clients and agency representatives regarding inspection activities and findings.
  • Field work is required and may include nights, weekends, travel, and working at heights or over traffic and water.

Relocation assistance is available.

Click HERE to see the variety of benefits that Collins has to offer. 


QualificationsEducation and/or Experience:
  • Senior or recent graduate with a bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering from an accredited university.
  • Interest in bridge and structural inspection, field work, and transportation infrastructure.
  • Previous experience with AutoCAD, MicroStation, Bluebeam, or Civil 3D is a plus.
  • Previous experience with Microsoft Office Suite and Adobe PDF or other PDF editing software is a plus.
  • EngineerInTraining (E.I.T.) certification, or ability to obtain within one year.
  • Valid driver’s license and willingness to perform required field work

Physical Demands:

  • 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. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
  • While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to sit; use hands to finger, handle, or feel objects, tools, or controls; and reach with hands and arms.
  • The employee frequently is required to talk or hear.
  • The employee is occasionally required to stand, walk, stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl.
  • The employee must frequently lift and/or move up to 10 pounds and occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds.
  • Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, color vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus.