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Entry Level Mechanical Engineering Jobs in Decatur, IL

All JobsEntry Level Mechanical Engineering JobsEntry Level Mechanical Engineering Jobs in Decatur, IL

Entry Level Mechanical Engineering information

See Decatur, IL salary details

$17

$32

$53

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

As of Jun 24, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level mechanical engineering 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 are entry level mechanical engineers?

Entry level mechanical engineers are recent graduates or those with limited professional experience who work on designing, developing, testing, and manufacturing mechanical devices and systems. They typically support senior engineers by performing calculations, creating technical drawings, and assisting with product development. Their responsibilities often include using computer-aided design (CAD) software, conducting tests, and preparing reports. Entry level positions provide valuable hands-on experience and foundational knowledge in the field, serving as a stepping stone toward more advanced engineering roles.

What engineers make $500,000?

Highly experienced engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum, aerospace, or software engineering can earn $500,000 or more annually, often through a combination of base salary, bonuses, and stock options. These roles typically require advanced skills, extensive experience, and sometimes leadership or executive responsibilities.

What is the difference between Entry Level Mechanical Engineering vs Mechanical Design Engineer?

AspectEntry Level Mechanical EngineeringMechanical Design Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Mechanical Engineering or related fieldBachelor's or Master's in Mechanical Engineering or Design
Work EnvironmentDesign, analysis, testing in labs or officesDesign development, CAD modeling, prototyping
Employer & Industry UsageManufacturing, automotive, aerospace, consultingProduct design, machinery, consumer goods
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Entry Level Mechanical Engineering roles focus on foundational engineering tasks like analysis and testing, while Mechanical Design Engineers specialize in creating detailed designs and CAD models. Both roles often require similar educational backgrounds and are found in manufacturing, automotive, and aerospace industries. The main difference lies in the focus: general engineering versus specialized design work.

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 protocols.

What types of projects and responsibilities can I expect as an entry-level mechanical engineer?

As an entry-level mechanical engineer, you’ll typically work on a variety of tasks such as drafting and updating technical drawings, assisting with prototype development, and conducting basic analyses under the guidance of senior engineers. You may also be involved in quality testing, preparing documentation, and supporting the design or manufacturing process. Collaboration with cross-functional teams—including electrical engineers, manufacturing staff, and project managers—is common, providing valuable exposure to different aspects of the engineering process. This role offers a strong foundation for learning industry standards and developing technical problem-solving skills.

What engineers make 400K?

Highly experienced engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum, aerospace, or software engineering can earn salaries of $400,000 or more, often through a combination of base pay, bonuses, and stock options. These roles typically require advanced skills, extensive experience, and sometimes advanced 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 grasp of engineering fundamentals, problem-solving abilities, and a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering or a related field. Familiarity with CAD software (such as SolidWorks or AutoCAD), engineering simulation tools, and basic knowledge of manufacturing processes are typically required. Strong teamwork, communication, and time management skills help you collaborate effectively and manage project deadlines. These competencies are crucial for delivering quality engineering solutions, adapting to project requirements, and contributing to successful team outcomes.

Is 40 too late to be an engineer?

Entry level mechanical engineering positions typically require a bachelor's degree in engineering and relevant skills, and individuals can pursue this career at any age. Many engineers start their careers later in life, and experience can be an asset; age is generally not a barrier to entering the field if the necessary education and skills are obtained.
What cities near Decatur, IL are hiring for Entry Level Mechanical Engineering jobs? Cities near Decatur, IL with the most Entry Level Mechanical Engineering job openings:
Entry Level Mechanical Engineering jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Mechanical Engineering job openings in Decatur, IL as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $66,981 per year, or $32.2 per hour.
Entry Level NDT Assistant

Entry Level NDT Assistant

Acuren Inspection, Inc.

Decatur, IL

$21.63 - $34.13/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 1 hour ago

Acuren rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 37 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

39th of 103 rated laboratories

Job description

Acuren is seeking an Entry Level NDT Assistant for operations in Decatur, IL. LOCAL APPLICANTS ONLY.

This will be a nested position and will be a fast track to NDT Level II. 

NDT Assistants will assist in performing calibrations, Nondestructive Tests, and evaluations for acceptance or rejection determinations according to written instructions and record results.


  • Set up and utilize Nondestructive Test equipment
  • Assist Radiographers in the calibration of NDT equipment
  • Assist Radiographers to conduct tests to ensure quality or detect discontinuities (defects) using NDT methods of inspection
  • Record results of inspections
  • Assist performing NDT procedures, carrying equipment and other operations
  • Perform other job related tasks as assigned by management

  • High School Diploma or equivalent
  • Some college preferred
  • Technical background desired
  • Must be able to have experience, credentials and history to be certified as Trustworthy & Reliable to comply with federal and state regulations, as determined by a thorough background check
  • Motor Vehicle Driving record must meet company standards to drive company vehicles
  • MUST PASS DRUG/ALCOHOL AND BACKGROUND SCREENS PER CLIENT REQUIREMENTS.

  • Competitive Salary
  • Medical, dental, vision, and supplemental insurance
  • 401K Plan
  • Paid Holidays
  • Paid Time Off
  • Pay Transparency: As per applicable state law the job posting pay range is $21.63-34.13/hr depending on experience and applicable certifications.

Acuren is a trusted, single source provider of technology-enabled asset protection solutions used to evaluate the structural integrity of critical energy, industrial and public infrastructures. Committed to delivering a Higher Level of Reliability, Acuren provides an unrivaled spectrum of capabilities including inspection, traditional and advanced NDE/NDT, failure analysis, rope access, materials engineering, field engineering, reliability engineering, drones, robotics, V-Deck and condition-based monitoring services.

Our work is critical to the integrity and safety of industrial firms, including petroleum refinery, pipeline, power generation, pulp & paper, mining, pharmaceutical, aerospace and automotive industries. Acuren employs over 4,000 dedicated professionals supporting the mechanical integrity and inspection programs of the world’s largest industrial segments.

Acuren is a market leader. Our formula for success is straightforward: be capable locally, with certified and well-equipped personnel supported by trained, experienced leaders. Continuing to build on a strong heritage of safety, quality and professionalism, Acuren strives to maintain incident free work environments, pursues advanced technical developments, and supports reliability programs that are valued by clients and employees.  #LI-BE1

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