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Entry Level Mining Engineering Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Mechanical Engineer

Decatur, IL ยท On-site

$65K - $95K/yr

RFA Engineering (www.rfamec.com) is an engineering service provider dedicated to delivering our ... Projects may involve large mining trucks, off-highway trucks, wheel loaders, wheel tractor scrapers ...

Quality/Test Engineer

Chillicothe, IL ยท On-site

$70K - $95K/yr

... with timely engineering support and expertise. We are seeking an entry level to experienced ... mining equipment. Work may involve laboratory testing, machine testing, failure analysis, root ...

Mechanical Engineer

Chillicothe, IL ยท On-site

$70K - $95K/yr

... with timely engineering support and expertise. We are seeking an entry-level to experienced ... and mining equipment. The work will be highly collaborative with engineering, manufacturing ...

Electrical Engineer

Chillicothe, IL ยท On-site

$70K - $105K/yr

Bachelor's of Science in Electrical Engineering or related field. * Entry level candidates and ... mining, recreational, industrial, and special machines. Our work includes concept development ...

Embedded Software Engineer

Chillicothe, IL ยท On-site

$75K - $115K/yr

... with timely engineering support and expertise. We are seeking an entry-level to experienced ... mining, recreational, industrial, and special machines. Our work includes concept development ...

The Engineering Team is seeking a motivated, hard-working Domain Engineer with the ability to ... Understand big data concepts and have knowledge of data mining algorithms. * Read and understand ...

The Engineering Team is seeking a motivated, hard-working Domain Engineer with the ability to ... Understand big data concepts and have knowledge of data mining algorithms. * Read and understand ...

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Showing results 1-20

Entry Level Mining Engineering information

See Illinois salary details

$32K

$86.4K

$137.6K

How much do entry level mining engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level mining engineering in Illinois is $86,421.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $64,400.00 and $105,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as an Entry Level Mining Engineer, you need a bachelor's degree in mining engineering or a related field, along with solid knowledge of geology, mathematics, and engineering principles. Familiarity with mining software such as Surpac, Vulcan, or AutoCAD, as well as understanding of safety regulations, is typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, teamwork, and effective communication help set candidates apart in collaborative and challenging environments. These skills and qualifications are essential for ensuring safe, efficient, and sustainable mining operations from the start of your career.

What is the difference between Entry Level Mining Engineering vs Mining Technician?

AspectEntry Level Mining EngineeringMining Technician
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in Mining Engineering or related fieldAssociate degree or technical certification in mining technology
Work EnvironmentDesign, planning, and project management in minesFieldwork, equipment operation, and site support
Employer & Industry UsageMining companies, engineering firms, consultingMining operations, contractors, and maintenance teams

Entry Level Mining Engineering roles focus on planning, design, and project management within the mining industry, requiring a bachelor's degree. Mining Technicians typically perform fieldwork and equipment support, often with technical certifications. Both roles are essential in mining operations but differ in responsibilities and educational requirements.

What are entry level mining engineers and what do they do?

Entry level mining engineers are recent graduates or newcomers to the mining engineering field who assist in the planning, design, and supervision of mining operations. They typically work under the guidance of senior engineers to ensure the safe and efficient extraction of minerals. Their responsibilities may include site inspections, conducting feasibility studies, using specialized software for mine design, and helping to develop environmental and safety protocols. Entry level roles provide valuable hands-on experience and a pathway to more advanced engineering positions in the mining industry.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level mining engineers during their first year on the job?

Entry level mining engineers often face challenges such as adapting to remote work locations, understanding complex site-specific safety protocols, and transitioning theoretical knowledge into practical, on-site problem solving. Working as part of a multidisciplinary team, new engineers must quickly learn to communicate effectively with experienced technicians, supervisors, and other engineers. The role also requires flexibility, as daily tasks can range from field inspections to data analysis and equipment monitoring, making time management and adaptability key to success.
What are the most commonly searched types of Mining Engineering jobs in Illinois? The most popular types of Mining Engineering jobs in Illinois are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Mining Engineering jobs in Illinois? For Entry Level Mining Engineering jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Mining Engineering jobs in Illinois look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Mining Engineering jobs in Illinois are:
What cities in Illinois are hiring for Entry Level Mining Engineering jobs? Cities in Illinois with the most Entry Level Mining Engineering job openings:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Mining Engineering job openings in Illinois as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $86,421 per year, or $41.5 per hour.

Entry Level Mechanical Engineer

RFA Engineering

Chillicothe, IL โ€ข On-site

$60K - $78K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 16 days ago


Job description

RFA Engineering (www.rfamec.com) is an engineering service provider dedicated to delivering our clients with timely engineering support and expertise. We are seeking an Entry Level candidate to become an integral part of our engineering team. The selected candidate will work with an experienced engineering staff using state-of-the-art engineering tools & processes. This position will operate onsite at our customer's world-class engineering and manufacturing facility.
This is a full-time position with a full benefit package listed below that includes opportunities for professional growth, direct hire by our customers, and additional opportunities within our own organization.
Entry Level Mechanical Engineer
The selected candidate will work with an experienced engineering staff supporting the development of engines, powertrain systems, cast components, and off-highway equipment. Work will include product design, product improvement, cost reduction, product health, prototype support, validation, and manufacturing support activities. Potential projects may involve diesel and natural gas engines, axles, drives, gears, torque converters, cast components, and systems used in construction, mining, and industrial equipment. The work will be highly collaborative with both internal customers and external suppliers.
Responsibilities
  • Participate in design, development, build, and validation activities related to engines, powertrain systems, and off-highway equipment.
  • Collaborate with design teams to develop and improve mechanical systems and components.
  • Work with validation and system engineers to ensure product requirements are satisfied through appropriate testing and analysis.
  • Support prototype, pilot, and production build activities.
  • Assist with product quality, reliability, and continuous improvement initiatives.
  • Support root cause investigations and implementation of corrective actions.
  • Work with factory operations, manufacturing, quality, and supplier teams to support robust product solutions.
  • Support Bill of Material (BOM) creation and maintenance activities.
  • Create and update engineering documentation, models, and product structures.
  • Assist with APQP activities and product development processes.
  • Support supplier and customer interactions as needed.
  • Collaborate with other groups (Engineering, Manufacturing, Purchasing, Validation, Quality, Supplier Development, etc.) as necessary.
  • Travel to supplier or customer sites pending project need (up to ~5%).

Requirements
  • BSME, BSMET or equivalent degree with experience.
  • Entry level candidates and experienced candidates will be considered.
  • Strong mechanical aptitude demonstrated through work experience or hobbies.
  • Excellent communication both written and verbal.
  • Demonstrated ability to meet deadlines and commitments.
  • Strong analytical, problem solving and troubleshooting skills.
  • Ability to thrive in a team environment.
  • Ability to travel (less than 10% of time).

Desired Attributes
  • Experience with the APQP (Advanced Product Quality Planning) process.
  • Experience in 3-D Modeling Software; Creo (Pro/Engineer) experience.
  • Previous experience with Teamcenter or other PDM software.
  • Experience with manufacturing processes.
  • Design experience or exposure to off-road mobile equipment, engines, powertrain systems, or heavy machinery.
  • Experience with shop or factory support.
  • Exposure to validation, prototype builds, testing, or product development activities.
  • Desire to work in an engineering environment focusing on robust & cost effective design.

Visa sponsorship is NOT available for this position.
Pay Range: $60,000-$78,000 - Commensurate with experience
About RFA Engineering
RFA Engineering has provided product development and engineering services to industry leading customers since 1943. Our primary focus is the development of off highway equipment including agricultural, construction, mining, recreational, industrial, and special machines. Our work includes concept development, product design, documentation, problem-solving, simulation, optimization, and testing of components, systems and complete machines. Our engineering staff is located at our Engineering Center in Minneapolis, branch office in Dubuque, IA, and at numerous customer sites throughout the U.S.
Competitive Benefits
  • Health and Dental Insurance
  • Health Savings Account
  • TelaDoc: Virtual Health Care
  • Vision Insurance
  • Company Paid / Supplemental Life Insurance
  • Company Paid Long-Term Disability
  • Supplemental Short-Term Disability
  • Retirement Savings Account (Traditional 401k & Roth 401k)
  • Flexible Spending Plan Dependent Care
  • Bonus Plan (Exempt Employees Only)
  • Paid Time Off (PTO)
  • Paid Holidays
  • Bereavement Leave
  • Employee Assistance Programs (EAP)
  • Education Assistance

Equal Opportunity and Veteran Friendly
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.