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Entry Level Mechanical Engineer Jobs in Decatur, IL

All JobsMechanical Engineer JobsEntry Level Mechanical Engineer JobsEntry Level Mechanical Engineer Jobs in Decatur, IL

Entry Level Mechanical Engineer information

See Decatur, IL salary details

$17

$32

$53

How much do entry level mechanical engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level mechanical engineer in Decatur, IL is $32.20, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $26.11 and $36.39 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

AspectEntry Level Mechanical EngineerMechanical Designer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Mechanical Engineering, possibly internship experienceBachelor's in Mechanical Engineering or related field, technical certifications optional
Work EnvironmentDesign, analysis, testing, and project collaboration in engineering teamsCreating detailed drawings and models, often using CAD software, in design departments
Employer & Industry UsageEngineering firms, manufacturing, aerospace, automotiveDesign firms, manufacturing companies, product development
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Entry Level Mechanical Engineers focus on applying engineering principles to design, analyze, and test mechanical systems, often working on projects from concept to prototype. Mechanical Designers primarily create detailed CAD drawings and models for manufacturing and assembly. While both roles require a mechanical engineering background, engineers typically engage in broader engineering tasks, whereas designers concentrate on detailed design work.

Is 32 too old to become an engineer?

Entry level mechanical engineering positions are open to individuals of various ages, and starting a career at 32 is common. Many engineers begin their careers after gaining relevant education, certifications, or skills, regardless of age, and employers value experience and knowledge. Age should not be a barrier to pursuing a mechanical engineering role if you have the necessary qualifications and skills.

What types of projects and tasks can an entry level mechanical engineer expect to work on in their first year?

As an entry level mechanical engineer, you will typically be involved in a variety of projects that support more senior engineers. Your tasks may include creating and revising CAD drawings, assisting with prototype development, conducting basic calculations and simulations, and performing hands-on testing in the lab or on the production floor. You'll also collaborate closely with cross-functional teams such as manufacturing, quality assurance, and design. This exposure helps you build foundational technical skills while learning effective teamwork and communication in a professional engineering environment.

What are entry-level mechanical engineering jobs?

Entry-level mechanical engineering jobs typically include roles such as design engineer, manufacturing engineer, or quality engineer, often requiring a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering. These positions involve tasks like CAD modeling, testing, and assisting in product development, with common tools including AutoCAD and SolidWorks. They usually offer on-the-job training and may require basic knowledge of engineering principles and safety standards.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Mechanical Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Mechanical Engineer, you need a solid understanding of engineering principles, CAD design, and problem-solving, typically supported by a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering. Familiarity with tools like SolidWorks, AutoCAD, and simulation software, as well as knowledge of industry standards, is often required. Strong communication, teamwork, and analytical thinking skills help you collaborate effectively and adapt to project needs. These abilities are crucial for delivering accurate designs, meeting project deadlines, and integrating smoothly into engineering teams.

What Does an Entry-Level Mechanical Engineer Do?

An entry-level mechanical engineer works on product design for a given industry, such as aerospace, automotive, medical, manufacturing, or entertainment. Your job duties as an entry-level mechanical engineer depend on the size of your employer and the scope of the projects your team handles. At a large corporation, your job focuses on a specialized element of the product design. At a small company or startup, your responsibilities encompass all of the engineering elements of a project. Regardless of company size, you need communication and interpersonal skills as a mechanical engineer, because teamwork is essential to the job.

How to get a mechanical engineering job with no experience?

Entry-level mechanical engineering positions often require relevant internships, co-op experience, or project work to demonstrate skills. Gaining proficiency in CAD software, such as SolidWorks or AutoCAD, and obtaining certifications like Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) can improve chances. Networking with professionals and applying to internships or trainee programs also help build experience for entry-level roles.

What does an entry level mechanical engineer do?

An entry level mechanical engineer assists in the design, development, testing, and manufacturing of mechanical devices, such as engines, tools, and machines. They typically work under the supervision of senior engineers to learn industry practices and gain hands-on experience. Their tasks often include using computer-aided design (CAD) software, creating prototypes, conducting experiments, and analyzing data. Entry level engineers also help prepare technical reports and documentation while collaborating with other engineering teams.

Can you make $200,000 a year as a mechanical engineer?

Entry-level mechanical engineers typically earn between $60,000 and $80,000 annually, with higher salaries possible in specialized fields, management roles, or in certain industries like aerospace or oil and gas. Reaching a $200,000 salary generally requires many years of experience, advanced skills, certifications, or leadership positions.
More about Entry Level Mechanical Engineer jobs
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Mechanical Engineer jobs in Decatur, IL? For Entry Level Mechanical Engineer jobs in Decatur, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Mechanical Engineer jobs in Decatur, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Mechanical Engineer jobs in Decatur, IL are:
What cities near Decatur, IL are hiring for Entry Level Mechanical Engineer jobs? Cities near Decatur, IL with the most Entry Level Mechanical Engineer job openings:
Entry Level Mechanical Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Mechanical Engineer job openings in Decatur, IL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $66,981 per year, or $32.2 per hour.
Strategic Electrical Engineer

Strategic Electrical Engineer

Constellation Energy

Beason, IL • On-site

$89K - $154K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 13 days ago

Constellation Energy rating

8.5

Company rating: 8.5 out of 10

Based on 100 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

10th of 75 rated oil and gas companies

Job description

Who We Are

As the largest private-sector power producer in the world and the nation's largest producer of clean and reliable energy, Constellation is focused on our purpose: lighting the way to a brilliant tomorrow for all. We have been the leader in clean energy production for more than a decade, and we are cultivating a workplace where our employees can grow, thrive, and contribute. Now integrated with Calpine, our portfolio includes 55 gigawatts of capacity from nuclear, natural gas, geothermal, hydro, wind and solar facilities, with the generating capacity to power the equivalent of 27 million homes.

The Strategic Electrical Engineer position is based out of our Clinton Clean Energy Center in Clinton, IL.


Our culture and employee experience make it clear: We are powered by passion and purpose. Together, we're creating healthier communities and a cleaner planet, and our people are the driving force behind our success. At Constellation, you can build a fulfilling career with opportunities to learn, grow and make an impact. By doing our best work and meeting new challenges, we can accomplish great things. Join us in meeting the country's energy needs today and tomorrow.

Total Rewards

Constellation offers an extensive selection of benefits and rewards to help our employees thrive professionally and personally. We provide competitive compensation and a wide-range of benefits that support both employees and their families, helping them prepare for the future. In addition to highly competitive salaries, eligible employees are offered a bonus program, 401(k) with company match, employee stock purchase program comprehensive medical, dental and vision benefits, including robust wellbeing programs disability and life insurance benefits paid time off for vacation, holidays, and sick days and much more.

*****************This Engineering role can be filled at Entry-level, Mid-level or Senior Engineer level. Please see minimum qualifications list below for each level*********************************** 

Entry Level - $89,000 

Mid Level - $92,700-$114,000 

Sr Level - $122,400-$154,000 

Ranges are per year based on experience, along with a comprehensive benefits package that includes bonus and 401K 

Primary Purpose of Position

Responsible for performing engineering and technical tasks, under direct supervision, in support of nuclear plant operations.

Primary Duties and Accountabilities

  • Assure all engineering products prepared are in accordance with applicable safety analyses, industry codes, and all regulatory requirements.
  • Perform engineering and technical tasks as assigned by supervision.
  • Support engineering work functions.
  • All other job assignments and/or duties pursuant to company policy or as directed by management to include but not limited to: (Emergency Response duties and/or coverage, Department duty coverage and/or call out, and positions outside of department in support of outage activities etc.)

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS for Entry Level E01 Engineer &ndash New Graduate 

  • B.S  in Engineering (Chemical, Civil/Structural, Electrical, Industrial, Mechanical or Nuclear) 
  • Maintain minimum access requirements or unescorted access requirements, as applicable, and favorable medical examination and/or testing in accordance with position duties

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS for Mid-level E02 Engineer

  • B.S. in Engineering, a minimum 2 years Nuclear experience or related engineering experience
  • Must meet additional requirements as outlined in ANSI/ANS-3.1-2014 Standard, "Selection, Qualification, and Training of Personnel for Nuclear Power Plants"
  • Maintain minimum access requirements or unescorted access requirements, as applicable, and favorable medical examination and/or testing in accordance with position duties

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS for Senior E03 Engineer

  • B.S. in Engineering, a minimum 5 years Nuclear experience or related engineering experience
  • Must meet additional requirements as outlined in ANSI/ANS-3.1-2014 Standard, "Selection, Qualification, and Training of Personnel for Nuclear Power Plants"
  • Maintain minimum access requirements or unescorted access requirements, as applicable, and favorable medical examination and/or testing in accordance with position duties

Preferred Qualifications

BS Electrical Engineering Degree 

Experience with digital controls

Engineer in Training Certification

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