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Entry Level Project Engineer Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

mcnish water

Associate Project Manager

Aurora, IL · On-site

$54K - $69K/yr

... Engineering, Purchasing, Manufacturing, and Accounting. The Entry-Level Project Manager will assist in project planning, scheduling, documentation, and coordination to ensure timely and quality ...

New

SWE Solutions

Project Engineer I

Chicago, IL

$30 - $48/hr

This entry-level position provides an excellent opportunity to gain hands-on experience in construction engineering, project management, and fieldwork while supporting the successful execution of ...

SWE Solutions

Project Engineer I

Chicago, IL · On-site

$30 - $48/hr

This entry-level position provides an excellent opportunity to gain hands-on experience in construction engineering, project management, and fieldwork while supporting the successful execution of ...

SWE Solutions

Project Engineer I

Chicago, IL · On-site

$30 - $48/hr

This entry-level position provides an excellent opportunity to gain hands-on experience in construction engineering, project management, and fieldwork while supporting the successful execution of ...

dbHMS

Project Engineer - Mechanical

Chicago, IL · On-site

$70K - $95K/yr

As such, Project Engineers will typically find themselves continuing to learn from Senior Engineers while simultaneously teaching and mentoring Entry Level Engineers. The ideal candidate is expected ...

dbHMS

Project Engineer - Electrical

Chicago, IL · Hybrid

$70K - $100K/yr

As such, Project Engineers will typically find themselves continuing to learn from Senior Engineers while simultaneously teaching and mentoring Entry Level Engineers. The ideal candidate is expected ...

dbHMS

Project Engineer - Electrical

Chicago, IL · On-site

$70K - $100K/yr

As such, Project Engineers will typically find themselves continuing to learn from Senior Engineers while simultaneously teaching and mentoring Entry Level Engineers. The ideal candidate is expected ...

dbHMS

Project Engineer - Mechanical

Chicago, IL · Hybrid

$70K - $95K/yr

As such, Project Engineers will typically find themselves continuing to learn from Senior Engineers while simultaneously teaching and mentoring Entry Level Engineers. The ideal candidate is expected ...

dbHMS

Project Engineer - Mechanical

Chicago, IL · On-site

$70 - $100/hr

As such, Project Engineers will typically find themselves continuing to learn from Senior Engineers while simultaneously teaching and mentoring Entry Level Engineers. The ideal candidate is expected ...

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All JobsProject Engineer JobsEntry Level Project Engineer JobsEntry Level Project Engineer Jobs in Illinois

Entry Level Project Engineer information

See Illinois salary details

$32K

$79.5K

$145.8K

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

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level project engineer in Illinois is $79,523.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $64,900.00 and $85,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an entry level project engineer do?

An Entry Level Project Engineer assists in planning, coordinating, and overseeing engineering projects under the supervision of senior engineers or project managers. Typical responsibilities include preparing technical documents, assisting with project scheduling, monitoring progress, and communicating with team members and stakeholders to ensure project goals are met. They may also help troubleshoot issues, ensure compliance with safety and regulatory standards, and support quality assurance efforts. This role provides valuable hands-on experience for recent graduates or those new to the engineering field, often serving as a stepping stone to more advanced engineering positions.

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

To thrive as an Entry Level Project Engineer, a solid background in engineering principles, a relevant degree, and basic project management knowledge are essential. Familiarity with tools such as AutoCAD, Microsoft Project, and industry-specific software, along with any relevant certifications like EIT (Engineer-in-Training), is often required. Strong communication, problem-solving abilities, and teamwork skills help distinguish top performers in this role. These competencies enable effective project coordination, technical accuracy, and successful collaboration across multidisciplinary teams.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level project engineers during their first year, and how can they overcome them?

Entry Level Project Engineers often encounter challenges such as adapting to fast-paced project timelines, learning to communicate effectively with multidisciplinary teams, and managing multiple tasks simultaneously. It's common to feel overwhelmed at first, but proactively seeking guidance from senior engineers, staying organized with project management tools, and regularly checking in with your supervisor can help you succeed. Embracing a willingness to learn and asking questions will also build your technical confidence and foster strong working relationships.

What is the difference between Entry Level Project Engineer vs Project Coordinator?

AspectEntry Level Project EngineerProject Coordinator
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Engineering or related field; some certificationsBachelor's degree; often in business or management
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, engineering offices, industrial settingsOffice settings, project management teams
Employer & Industry UsageEngineering firms, construction companies, manufacturingConstruction, IT, corporate projects
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

The Entry Level Project Engineer typically focuses on technical aspects of projects, including design, planning, and engineering tasks, often working directly with engineers and technical teams. In contrast, a Project Coordinator handles administrative tasks, schedules, and communication between teams. Both roles are essential in project execution but differ in technical involvement and responsibilities.

What are the most commonly searched types of Project Engineer jobs in Illinois?

The most popular types of Project Engineer jobs in Illinois are:

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Project Engineer jobs in Illinois?

For Entry Level Project Engineer jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Project Engineer jobs in Illinois look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Project Engineer jobs in Illinois are:

What cities in Illinois are hiring for Entry Level Project Engineer jobs?

Cities in Illinois with the most Entry Level Project Engineer job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Project Engineer jobs in IL?

For Entry Level Project Engineer jobs in IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Entry Level Project Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Project Engineer job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 83% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $79,523 per year, or $38.2 per hour.

Project Engineer - Entry Level (May 2027) - On-site

Usi Insurance

Chicago, IL • On-site

$55 - $75/hr

Other

Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted yesterday

New

Job description

Project Engineer - Entry Level (May 2027)

ENC Construction & Development (“ENC”) is looking for eager new graduates to join our fast‑growing team in Chicago, IL. The Project Engineer role at ENC provides hands‑on experience supporting our project teams, both in the office and in the field, as we execute and deliver our challenging and exciting portfolio of projects. We are seeking Project Engineers with a strong work ethic and motivation to be a part of an innovative and hard‑working team.

Benefits (probationary period may apply):

  • Short-Term and Long-Term Disability Insurance
  • Life Insurance
  • 401(k) with employer match
  • Paid Time Off (accrual based)
  • Performance‑based bonus programs
  • Career Wellbeing, Development and Training
  • Company Outings and Events
Job Responsibilities
  • Support PM and Field team with project coordination, scheduling, safety management, and estimating.
  • Assist with trade procurement and onsite subcontractor activity.
  • Utilize Procore and established ENC templates to process, distribute, track, update and manage all project documentation.
  • Perform a variety of tasks including bidding and awarding trades, reviewing and processing submittals, generating RFIs, cost management, issuing meeting minutes, and processing pay applications.
  • Monitor and control construction activity through administrative coordination with on‑site superintendent to ensure project completion on schedule and within budget.
  • Negotiate contracts and agreements with external stakeholders and subcontractors.
  • Collaborate with project staff to outline the work plan, assign duties, responsibilities and scope of authority and review project status reports, modifying schedules and budgets as required to meet prescribed plans.
  • Maintain relationships with Subcontractors, Architects, and Engineers to ensure construction activity supports the project schedule and requirements.
Qualifications
  • 4-year degree in a relevant field of study (Construction Management, Engineering, Architecture, etc.).
  • Prior internship(s) or co‑op experience working on commercial or multifamily construction projects.
  • Previous exposure to project management software is preferred but not required.

Skills:

  • Proficient in reading and understanding construction drawings, specifications and contract documents.
  • Strong interpersonal skills and strong written/verbal communication.
  • Ability to stay organized during various phases of multiple ongoing projects.
  • Familiarity with rules, regulations, best practices and performance standards.
  • Must be extremely organized, self‑reliant, proactive, and detail oriented.
  • Professional discretion, confidentiality and mature judgment.
  • Proactive approach to time‑management and problem solving.
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

DISCLAIMER This job description reflects ENC’s assignment of essential functions; and nothing in this herein restricts ENC’s right to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time. We are proud to be an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment.

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