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Entry Level Material Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL

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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 Aug 7, 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 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 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 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 71% Full Time, 25% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 79% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 20% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $71,453 per year, or $34.4 per hour.

Associate Chemical Engineer

AK Steel

Burns Harbor, IN

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 25 days ago

Job description

Location: Burns Harbor, IN

ClevelandCliffs is seeking upcoming college graduates for entrylevel Associate Chemical Engineer roles at our Burns Harbor facility in Burns Harbor, Indiana. As the leading flatrolled steel producer in North America, ClevelandCliffs leverages advanced technologies and vertically integrated operations to drive innovation, efficiency, and sustainability across our steelmaking processes. These roles offer emerging engineers handson opportunities to apply their academic knowledge to realworld challenges while making a meaningful impact on American manufacturing. In support of our commitment to operational excellence and continuous improvement, ClevelandCliffs actively recruits talented, driven chemical engineers ready to grow their careers with us.

Summary of Responsibilities:

  • Analyze product failure data and laboratory test results to determine causes of problems and develop solutions

  • Conducting tests on raw materials or finished products to ensure their quality

  • Evaluate technical specifications and economic factors relating to process or product design objectives

  • Monitor material performance and evaluating material deterioration

  • Plan and implement laboratory operations for the purpose of developing material and fabrication procedures that meet cost, product specification, and performance standards

  • Review new product plans and make recommendations for ease of manufacturability while meeting the product design objectives

  • Potentially supervise a crew of hourly employees

  • Rotating shift work may be required according to business needs

  • Other duties as assigned

Minimum Qualifications:

  • Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering, or other related technical degrees

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Previous experience or internship/co-op in manufacturing

Cleveland-Cliffs Inc. is the largest flat-rolled steel company and the largest iron ore pellet producer in North America. The Company is vertically integrated from mined raw materials, direct reduced iron, and ferrous scrap to primary steelmaking and downstream finishing, stamping, tooling, and tubing. We offer an excellent total compensation package including competitive pay with variable compensation opportunity, health insurance, retirement plan, education assistance, paid time off and more.

Cleveland-Cliffs Inc. is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodation to individuals with disabilities. If, because of a medical condition or disability, you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the employment process, please send an e-mail tocareers@clevelandcliffs.comor call 1-(312) 899-3097 and let us know the nature of your request and your contact information. Do not email your application materials to this email address. Application materials sent to this email address will not be considered.

Cleveland-Cliffs Inc. is an equal opportunity employer - M/F/Veteran/Disability. We are a drug-free workplace and conduct pre-employment screening as a condition of employment.

AK Steel logo

About AK Steel

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

AK Steel is a leading producer of flat-rolled carbon, stainless, and electrical steel products in the United States. With a rich heritage spanning over a century, AK Steel is known for its commitment to innovation, quality, and customer satisfaction. AK Steel's product portfolio encompasses a wide range of steel solutions tailored to meet the needs of various industries, including automotive, construction, appliances, electrical, and packaging. The advanced manufacturing facilities and state-of-the-art technologies enable AK Steel to produce high-quality steel products that meet stringent specifications and performance requirements.

Industry

Manufacturing

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

West Chester, OH, US

Year founded

1899

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