ZipRecruiter

Log In

2

Entry Level Power Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

4pconsultinginc

Engineer 1

Naperville, IL · On-site

Naperville, IL 60563 Contract- 1 Year Client- Nicor Gas Position Overview The Engineer 1 role is an entry-level position within the electric utility and power generation industry , supporting the ...

K&A Engineering, Inc.

Engineer II

Oak Brook, IL

$99K/yr

K&A Power Group is a privately held engineering firm delivering worldclass technical expertise and engineering excellence to power utility and industrial clients across the United States, Asia, the ...

K&A Engineering Consulting

Engineer II

Oak Brook, IL · On-site

$99K/yr

K&A Power Group - is a privately held engineering firm delivering worldclass technical expertise and engineering excellence to power utility and industrial clients across the United States, Asia, the ...

4pconsultinginc

Engineer 1

Naperville, IL · On-site

... an entry-level engineering position responsible for supporting the design, planning, and construction of power-related systems. This role applies engineering principles, design standards, and ...

previous pagenext page

Showing results 21-40

All JobsPower Engineer JobsEntry Level Power Engineer JobsEntry Level Power Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL

Entry Level Power Engineer information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$41.8K

$89.1K

$146.9K

How much do entry level power engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level power engineer in Chicago, IL is $89,055.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $67,000.00 and $106,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level power engineer?

To thrive as an Entry Level Power Engineer, you need a solid understanding of electrical engineering principles, a relevant engineering degree, and foundational knowledge of power systems. Familiarity with industry-standard software such as AutoCAD, ETAP, or MATLAB, and exposure to relevant codes and standards (like IEEE) are commonly required. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help you collaborate on multidisciplinary teams and manage complex projects. These skills and qualifications are crucial for ensuring safe, efficient, and innovative solutions in power generation, transmission, and distribution.

What is the difference between Entry Level Power Engineer vs Power Plant Operator?

AspectEntry Level Power EngineerPower Plant Operator
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in engineering or related field; may need engineering internship experienceHigh school diploma or equivalent; on-the-job training often provided
Work EnvironmentDesign, analyze, and support power systems; office and technical settingsOperate and monitor power plant equipment; plant floor and control room
Industry UsagePower generation companies, engineering firmsPower plants, utility companies

Entry Level Power Engineers typically focus on designing and analyzing power systems with a background in engineering, while Power Plant Operators manage and control the operation of power plant equipment. Both roles are essential in the energy industry but differ in responsibilities and required qualifications.

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

Entry level power engineers often encounter challenges such as adapting to complex electrical systems, learning industry-specific software, and understanding regulatory standards. They may also need to quickly develop strong communication skills to collaborate effectively with senior engineers, technicians, and project managers. Balancing the technical demands of the role with ongoing training and real-world project deadlines can be demanding, but most organizations provide mentorship and structured onboarding to support new engineers as they build confidence and expertise.

What is an entry level power engineer?

Entry level power engineers are recent graduates or early-career professionals who work in the field of power engineering, which focuses on the generation, transmission, distribution, and use of electrical power. They typically assist in designing, testing, maintaining, and improving electrical systems and equipment under the supervision of senior engineers. Their responsibilities may include working on power grids, renewable energy projects, or electrical infrastructure for utilities and industries. Entry level power engineers often use engineering software and analytical tools while learning industry standards and gaining hands-on experience.
What are the most commonly searched types of Power Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Power Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Power Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL? For Entry Level Power Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Power Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Power Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Entry Level Power Engineer jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Entry Level Power Engineer job openings:
Entry Level Power Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Power Engineer job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 93% In-person, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $89,055 per year, or $42.8 per hour.

Engineer 1

4pconsultinginc

Naperville, IL • On-site

Contractor

Re-posted yesterday

Job description

Engineer 1 – Utilities Industry

Location: Naperville, IL 60563
Contract- 1 Year
Client- Nicor Gas

Position Overview

The Engineer 1 role is an entry-level position within the electric utility and power generation industry, supporting the design, construction, and maintenance of power delivery systems. The position applies engineering processes, utility-specific design standards, and industry software tools to deliver safe, reliable, and cost-effective infrastructure solutions. The Engineer 1 collaborates with internal departments, contractors, and vendors to ensure projects meet Southern Company and regulatory standards.

Key Responsibilities

  • Apply utility engineering principles and NESC-compliant design criteria to support new construction, system upgrades, and maintenance activities.

  • Assist in preparing cost estimates, design packages, and construction specifications for transmission, distribution, and generation facilities.

  • Conduct design reviews and provide quality assurance oversight for contractors to ensure compliance with Southern Company Standards and federal regulations.

  • Maintain a safety-first approach, ensuring all work meets OSHA requirements and industry best practices.

  • Understand and support the full project lifecycle for power systems, including planning, permitting, design, procurement, construction, and commissioning.

  • Utilize industry-standard engineering software (e.g., CAD/GIS, modeling tools) to produce and update project documentation.

  • Support construction and maintenance crews during field work and outage response activities.

  • Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives in design processes, standards, and project delivery methods.

Qualifications

Education & Certifications

  • Required: Bachelor’s degree in Engineering from an ABET-accredited program.

  • Preferred: Degree in Civil, Mechanical, or Industrial Engineering; Engineer in Training (EIT) Certification.

Experience

  • Preferred: Internship or co-op experience in utilities, power generation, or energy infrastructure design.

Skills & Knowledge

  • Ability to read and interpret utility engineering plans, schematics, and system diagrams.

  • Strong communication skills for effective collaboration with field crews, plant personnel, and regulatory stakeholders.

  • Preferred:

    • Experience with CAD/GIS tools.

    • Knowledge of hydraulic analysis for utility systems.

    • Exposure to utility project management processes.