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Entry Level Mechanical Engineer Jobs in Springfield, IL

We are seeking a hard-working and self-driven individual for an entry-level production position at ... Engineering and Production project participation during scheduled maintenance/cleanup days.

Entry Level Mechanical Engineer information

See Springfield, IL salary details

$17

$32

$54

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

As of Jun 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level mechanical engineer in Springfield, IL is $32.90, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $26.68 and $37.16 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.

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 some familiarity with industry standards and safety protocols.

What engineering jobs pay $500,000?

Entry level mechanical engineering positions typically do not pay $500,000 annually. High-paying engineering roles such as senior engineering managers, director-level positions, or specialized consulting roles in industries like aerospace, oil and gas, or technology can reach or exceed this salary level, often requiring extensive experience, advanced skills, and sometimes additional certifications or leadership responsibilities.

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 engineers make $300,000 a year?

Highly experienced engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum, aerospace, or software engineering can earn $300,000 or more annually, especially with advanced skills, leadership roles, or working in high-paying industries. These roles often require extensive experience, advanced degrees, and certifications, and may involve managing large projects or 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.

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.

Is 40 too late to be an engineer?

Entry level mechanical engineering positions are open to individuals of various ages, and starting a career at 40 is possible. Success depends on relevant education, skills, and experience, such as proficiency with CAD software and understanding of engineering principles. Many engineers transition careers later in life and find opportunities in the field.
What are the most commonly searched types of Mechanical Engineer jobs in Springfield, IL? The most popular types of Mechanical Engineer jobs in Springfield, IL are:
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What job categories do people searching Entry Level Mechanical Engineer jobs in Springfield, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Mechanical Engineer jobs in Springfield, IL are:
What cities near Springfield, IL are hiring for Entry Level Mechanical Engineer jobs? Cities near Springfield, IL with the most Entry Level Mechanical Engineer job openings:
Field/Office Engineer - MEC Industrial (Entry-Level)

Field/Office Engineer - MEC Industrial (Entry-Level)

Kiewit Corporation

Springfield, IL

$89K - $96K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 9 days ago


Kiewit Corporation rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 133 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

20th of 78 rated construction


Job description

Requisition ID: 180725 

Job Level: Entry Level 

Home District/Group: MEC Industrial District 

Department: Field Operations 

Market: Industrial 

Employment Type: Full Time 

Position Overview

As a Field Engineer, you bring your big ideas, commitment to top quality and unwavering work ethic. In return, we offer huge career and travel opportunities and the satisfaction of building "the next big thing" from the ground up. There's a reason Mass Electric (MEC) attracts the best: we offer fast-paced excitement and fulfillment you won't find anywhere else. Our mission is to make a difference and we offer opportunities for you to make make a difference in our construction operations. Whether we're boring tunnels through mountains, turning rivers into energy or building bridges that connect communities, we depend on our passionate, skilled, and safety-obsessed construction professionals to get it done right.

District Overview

Mass Electric Construction Co. is a subsidiary of the Kiewit Corporation. Since our founding in 1928 in Boston, Massachusetts, Mass. Electric Construction's philosophy has been to pursue electrical projects that require a higher level of technical and logistical skill.MEC Industrial has organized strategically to actively participate and capture projects in the growing industrial market. We intend to effectively compete and win in traditional and alternate delivery procurements and position ourselves for a sustainable future. We self-perform the majority of our work and are looking for people committed to the industrial construction industry.

Location

One of the many things that makes our culture unique is that we go where the work is, which exposes your career to abundant opportunities. We relocate our teams based on the work that is available, combined with the development plans, skill sets and career goals of each team member. This means your MEC adventure is custom-designed to meet our shared needs. MEC Industrial is based out of Waltham, MA and has work all across the country. Job assignment location will be determined closer to your start date.  Must be able to travel and relocate as frequently as business needs require. These projects are happening in large cities and small towns, so you have a chance to experience it all!

Responsibilities

    Field engineering, operation planning, cost control, project scheduling, quantity tracking, material procurement, contract administration, estimating & supervision of field activities
   Performing engineering tasks requiring standard techniques and handling minor problems of a technical nature arising during construction
   Maintaining records as required regarding job progress, costs, material usage, etc.
   Planning and scheduling of job and/or job segments
   Investigating problems and/or reported incidents; identifying and recommending solutions/alternatives as appropriate
   Reviewing plans and specifications to determine material requirements (quantities and qualities), pricing of materials, etc.
   Working with suppliers as required facilitating the handling and expediting delivery of materials

Qualifications

    Undergraduate or graduate degree in construction management, construction engineering, civil engineering, electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, engineering technology or equivalent combination of education and experience.
    Minimum overall GPA of 2.7
    Proficient knowledge of Microsoft Excel, Word and PowerPoint
    Attention to detail with the ability to recognize discrepancies
    Strong organizational and time management skills
    Effective verbal, written and presentation skills
    Able to work independently as well as part of a team
    Must be able to access all points of a construction site
    Ability to freely access all points of a construction site in a wide-ranging climates and environments 
    Highly motivated, with a demonstrated passion for excellence and taking initiative
    Strong work ethic, willing to do what it takes to get the job done right the first time
    Demonstrated commitment to ethics and integrity
    Passion for safety, with the ability to help us ensure that nobody gets hurt
    Team player with the ability to work independently to meet deadlines, goals, and objectives


Other common names for this role: Project Engineer, Office Engineer, Engineer 1

#LI-DP1

Other Requirements:
   Regular, reliable attendance
   Work productively and meet deadlines timely
   Communicate and interact effectively and professionally with supervisors, employees, and others individually or in a team environment
   Perform work safely and effectively. Understand and follow oral and written instructions, including warning signs, equipment use, and other policies.
   Work during normal operating hours to organize and complete work within given deadlines. Work overtime and weekends as required.
   May work at various different locations and conditions may vary

Base Compensation: $89,000/yr - $96,000

(Actual compensation is subject to variation due to such factors as education, experience, skillset, and/or location)

We offer our fulltime staff employees a comprehensive benefits package that's among the best in our industry, including top-tier medical, dental and vision plans covering eligible employees and dependents, voluntary wellness and employee assistance programs, life insurance, disability, retirement plans with matching, and generous paid time off.

Equal Opportunity Employer, including disability and protected veteran status.


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About Kiewit

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Kiewit Infrastructure Engineering's Design-Build team is driving clients to turn to Kiewit during all stages of design-build projects. Through our integrated design and construction approach, our multi-disciplinary team works together to improve schedule, control costs and minimize risk. Our construction-focused engineers work collaboratively with our estimators and builders to design solutions that are innovative, constructible, and designed with a focus on safety. Clients benefit from the proven processes and tools used by Kiewit to minimize project risk. We are an in-house resource that supports projects throughout the company. Our staff shares experiences gained, innovative concepts, and best practices for all projects that we support.

Industry

Construction materials wholesalers

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Omaha, NE, US

Year founded

1884