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Entry Level Material Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL

Proman Staffing

Material Handler 2nd Shift

Joliet, IL

$16.50 - $20/hr

... engineering company that serves the world's largest telecommunications and cable providers. We are seeking a dedicated and motivated Material Handler Entry Level Warehouse Associate to join our ...

Proman Staffing

Material Handler 2nd Shift

Joliet, IL

$16.50 - $20/hr

... engineering company that serves the world's largest telecommunications and cable providers. We are seeking a dedicated and motivated Material Handler Entry Level Warehouse Associate to join our ...

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All JobsMaterial Engineer JobsEntry Level Material Engineer JobsEntry Level Material Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL

Entry Level Material Engineer information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$30.9K

$71.5K

$121.6K

How much do entry level material engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level material engineer in Chicago, IL is $71,453.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $53,100.00 and $80,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an entry level material engineer do?

An entry level material engineer assists in developing, testing, and evaluating materials used in manufacturing and product design. Their responsibilities often include analyzing material properties, conducting experiments in labs, preparing technical reports, and supporting senior engineers on various projects. They may also help troubleshoot material failures and recommend improvements. This role provides foundational experience in materials science and engineering principles, often working under supervision while gaining practical skills.

What are some typical projects and responsibilities for an entry level material engineer in their first year?

As an entry-level material engineer, you will often work on tasks like conducting materials testing, analyzing data, assisting with the development of prototypes, and preparing technical documentation. You'll likely collaborate closely with senior engineers, quality control teams, and manufacturing staff to support ongoing projects. It's common to be involved in troubleshooting material-related issues and participating in team meetings to discuss project progress and challenges. This role provides a solid foundation for learning industry standards and gaining hands-on experience with different materials and processes.

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

To thrive as an Entry Level Material Engineer, you need a solid background in materials science or engineering, typically with a bachelor's degree in a related field. Familiarity with materials characterization tools (such as SEM, XRD), CAD software, and common lab testing protocols is often required. Strong analytical thinking, teamwork, and effective communication skills help you collaborate with colleagues and solve complex problems. These competencies ensure you can contribute to developing and improving materials that meet technical and project requirements.

What is the difference between Entry Level Material Engineer vs Entry Level Mechanical Engineer?

AspectEntry Level Material EngineerEntry Level Mechanical Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Materials Science, Metallurgy, or related fieldBachelor's in Mechanical Engineering or related field
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, manufacturing plants, R&D facilitiesDesign offices, manufacturing plants, testing labs
Industry UsageAutomotive, aerospace, electronics, manufacturingAutomotive, aerospace, energy, manufacturing
Common Search IntentEntry Level Material Engineer roles, job requirements, career pathEntry Level Mechanical Engineer roles, job duties, career options

Both roles typically require a bachelor's degree in their respective fields and involve working in manufacturing or R&D environments. While Material Engineers focus on developing and testing materials, Mechanical Engineers design and analyze mechanical systems. Understanding these differences helps job seekers target the right roles based on their skills and interests.

Entry Level Material Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Material Engineer job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 76% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 81% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 17% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $71,453 per year, or $34.4 per hour.

Entry Level Electrical Design Engineer (2027)

Chicago, IL • Hybrid

DMC Engineering
Civil Engineering Construction • 11 - 50 employees
Learn more about DMC Engineeringexternal

$87K - $97K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted yesterday

Job description

(Hybrid)
Description
Are you passionate about electrical design? As an Entry-Level Electrical Design Engineer, you'll gain hands-on experience while expanding your expertise in electrical design software, custom control panel design, wiring, schematics, and more! You'll work on innovative projects across diverse industries, collaborate in a team-oriented environment, and apply your technical knowledge to real-world challenges.

Note: The expected start date for this position is Summer 2027.

About DMC
DMC is a leading engineering consulting firm, delivering high-caliber engineering and custom software development services globally. Specializing in innovative solutions for manufacturing, testing, and product development, our expertise spans industries from aerospace to consumer-packaged goods to healthcare, and more. Our engineers excel in staying ahead of cutting-edge technologies and ensuring top-notch solutions. We prioritize technical excellence and cultivate a collaborative environment for independent and team-based work, reflecting our commitment to professional growth and providing forward-thinking solutions to clients.

This role is for any entry level engineer (0-3 years of experience) looking for a position in 2027. We have an exceptional onboarding and training program to help align your skillset with our technical offerings. 

Responsibilities

  • Designs custom control panels, bill of materials, wiring diagrams, schematic diagrams, and one-line power distribution drawings
  • Conducts IO checkout and validation
  • Performs enclosure FLA and heat dissipation calculations
  • Creates and maintains AutoCAD Electrical templates, blocks and symbols library
  • Organizes and maintains project drawings and technical information
  • Researches components and identifies electrical requirements from data sheets/manuals
  • Manages time effectively across multiple projects

Requirements
Engineer Level I (0-1 years of relevant experience)

  • Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering or related field (3.4 GPA minimum)
  • Familiar with electrical schematics
  • Familiar with electrical design software (AutoCAD, AutoCAD Electrical, or EPlan preferred) 
  • Understanding of motors, instrumentation and other electrical components with guidance
  • Ability to comprehend and explain simple control circuits (on/off, latching, etc.)
  • Capable of occasional travel

ITAR Requirements
To conform to U.S. Government commercial space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), 8 U.S.C. § 1324b(a)(3), applicants for employment at DMC must be a U.S. citizen or national, lawfully admitted for permanent residence into the U.S. (i.e. current green card holder), or lawfully admitted as a refugee or granted asylum under 8 U.S.C. §  1157-1158. 

Additional Information:

  • Benefits/Culture/Bonuses and More!
  • Office Locations
  • DMC Website
  • Engineering Blogs
  • Additional Career Opportunities 

Compensation is based on relevant experience, industry and location standards.

Salary Range
$87,500—$97,500 USD