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Entry Level Project Engineer Jobs in McAllen, TX

PLANNER I - RGV MPO

Edinburg, TX · On-site

$21.89 - $24/hr

Performs entry-level planning and programming activities in support of management-related programs and/or transportation projects. Work involves assisting with local, regional, or state zoning, urban ...

PLANNER I - RGV MPO

Edinburg, TX · On-site

$21.89 - $24/hr

Performs entry-level planning and programming activities in support of management-related programs and/or transportation projects. Work involves assisting with local, regional, or state zoning, urban ...

Entry Level Project Engineer information

See McAllen, TX salary details

$31.4K

$78K

$143K

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

As of Jul 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level project engineer in McAllen, TX is $77,964.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $63,700.00 and $84,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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, and why are they important?

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 are the most commonly searched types of Project Engineer jobs in McAllen, TX? The most popular types of Project Engineer jobs in McAllen, TX are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Project Engineer jobs in McAllen, TX? For Entry Level Project Engineer jobs in McAllen, TX, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Project Engineer jobs in McAllen, TX look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Project Engineer jobs in McAllen, TX are:
What cities near McAllen, TX are hiring for Entry Level Project Engineer jobs? Cities near McAllen, TX with the most Entry Level Project Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Project Engineer job openings in McAllen, TX as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $77,964 per year, or $37.5 per hour.

PLANNER I - RGV MPO

Lower Rio Grande Valley D

Edinburg, TX • On-site

$21.89 - $24/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 8 hours ago


Job description

Performs entry-level planning and programming activities in support of management-related programs and/or transportation projects. Work involves assisting with local, regional, or state zoning, urban, transportation, emergency management, or site plans and programs; assist with preparing implementation plans; Works under close supervision, with minimal latitude for the use of initiative and independent judgment. Work requires occasional contact with departmental managers, local government officials, and the general public.

EXAMPLES OF WORK

Assist with federally mandated transportation planning tasks. May represent the RGVMPO at local, state and federal levels in support of 3C’s process planning. Assist and reviews correspondence, reports, studies, may give briefings and assist with presentations to MPO Technical and Transportation Policy Board. Supports travel demand model development and assist with the use of the model in transportation planning activities. Research demographic databases, travel demand model networks and transportation analysis. Provides MPO staff support in transportation planning documents (i.e., Transportation Improvement Program, the Unified Planning Work Program, and the Metropolitan Transportation Plan), and insuring compliance with state and federal transportation planning funding rules; Works with consultants, vendors and other entities to help identify advance project planning. Provides technical support in development or regional planning activities. May be responsible for assigned geographic information system activities and products. Assist with coordinating training and technology sharing programs, including classes, seminars and conferences related to metropolitan transportation planning.

Performs such other related duties as may be assigned.

WORKING CONDITIONS

Works in well-lighted, air-conditioned office. Requires attendance at periodic night meetings. Some overnight travel is required. May lift up to 25 lbs. at a time.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

Some knowledge and experience in transportation and/or city/county planning; federal and state funds and requirements; transportation planning and modeling; transportation planning grants; GIS applications; Project management; FHWA and FTA rules and regulations; ADA and Clean Air Acts knowledge preferred. Skills in research data sources that support the transportation planning process, computer software (i.e., spreadsheets, word processing, database, presentation production, GIS). Ability to effectively communicate in both English and Spanish preferred.

ACCEPTABLE EXPERIENCE AND TRAINING

Bachelor’s degree in business administration, urban planning, civil or transportation engineering or a related field; and up to one (1) year work experience preferred; A transcript is required. Bachelor’s in civil engineering or transportation engineering or transportation planning, or urban planning may be substituted for some of the transportation planning experience. May require proof of Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam passing score. Demonstrable transportation planning skills are essential.

CERTIFICATES AND LICENSES REQUIRED

  • Valid/Current Texas Driver’s License
  • AICP is desired


“Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veteran/Disability”