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Entry Level Project Engineer Jobs in Portage, MI

Technician Associate

Three Rivers, MI · On-site

$25.99 - $32.49/hr

... entry level technical work and related activities associated with the planning, engineering, design ... Contacting the Project Design Group for advice on system improvements needed to serve new loads and ...

Entry Level Project Engineer information

See Portage, MI salary details

$31K

$77.1K

$141.3K

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

As of Jun 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level project engineer in Portage, MI is $77,052.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $62,900.00 and $83,100.00 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 engineer makes $500,000 a year?

While most entry-level project engineers do not earn that level of salary, senior engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum, aerospace, or software engineering with extensive experience and advanced certifications can reach or exceed $500,000 annually, especially with bonuses and stock options. High compensation typically involves leadership roles, significant project responsibilities, or working in high-demand industries.

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.

Can you become a project engineer with no experience?

Entry level project engineer positions typically require some related education or internship experience, but they often do not require prior full-time work in the role. Candidates with strong technical skills, relevant certifications, and a willingness to learn can sometimes qualify for these roles without extensive experience.

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 engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum, aerospace, or software engineering can earn $300,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced skills, and leadership roles. High compensation often involves working in high-demand industries, holding managerial or executive positions, or possessing rare technical expertise and certifications.

Can you make $500,000 as a civil engineer?

Entry level project engineers typically earn salaries below $100,000 annually, with higher earnings possible through experience, specialization, or management roles. Reaching a $500,000 annual salary generally requires many years of experience, advanced skills, and often leadership positions in large projects or firms.
What are the most commonly searched types of Project Engineer jobs in Portage, MI? The most popular types of Project Engineer jobs in Portage, MI are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Project Engineer jobs in Portage, MI? For Entry Level Project Engineer jobs in Portage, MI, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Project Engineer jobs in Portage, MI look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Project Engineer jobs in Portage, MI are:
What cities near Portage, MI are hiring for Entry Level Project Engineer jobs? Cities near Portage, MI with the most Entry Level Project Engineer job openings:
Entry Level Railroad Sales & Marketing Manager - Michigan

Entry Level Railroad Sales & Marketing Manager - Michigan

Watco

Kalamazoo, MI • On-site

Full-time

Posted 11 days ago


Watco rating

6.7

Company rating: 6.7 out of 10

Based on 52 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

243rd of 345 rated logistics


Job description

Entry Level Railroad Sales & Marketing Manager - Michigan
Job Location: Michigan
Office Location: Remote
Employment Type: Salary
Job Type: Full Time
Start a Watco Career and Discover the Difference
Keep the world's supply chain moving. That's what the Watco team does every day at our short line railroads, switching sites, terminals, ports, and logistics hubs. Whether you're at one of these locations or in a support-services role, there's one thread that ties everyone together. We're all or the same team. One Watco.
Here's what you can expect from Watco:
• Outstanding culture recognized by Forbes and Newsweek
• Competitive compensation and benefits
• Paid on-the-job training with peer trainers
• Training for conductors, engineers, mechanics, and MOW Team Members at Watco's Safe Performance Center
• Leadership and development programs offered through Watco University
• Career advancement opportunities
Job Summary
This is an entry-level position that will require residence or reloaction to the State of Michigan.
The Manager of Sales and Marketing is responsible for building and maintaining customer relationships, while growing the business, and optimizing Watco's assets by delivering expanded services and locations. This role focuses on multiple-freight railroads and terminal operations and holds accountability for overall sales and marketing performance across assigned properties. The successful candidate will drive revenue growth by developing new customers, strengthening existing relationships, and identifying strategic business development opportunities.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
• Drive year-over-year EBITDA growth across assigned properties.
• Strengthening Watco's role within customers' supply chains by promoting and selling the full portfolio of Watco services.
• Proactively pursue new business opportunities and cultivate strategic customer relationships.
• Negotiate commercial transactions, legal agreements, and long-term commitments on behalf of Watco.
• Develop and communicate a strategic, long-term vision that aligns customer needs with market dynamics, industry trends, and competitive conditions.
• Demonstrate a strong understanding of operational fundamentals, including cost structures and productivity constraints across Watco services.
• Apply financial acumen through quantitative analysis and fiscal modeling, including forecasting, NPV analysis, capital valuation, and internal rate of return calculations.
• Lead cross-functional teams (Sales, Operations, Finance, Project Management, People Services, EHS, etc.) to deliver customer solutions with integrity, professionalism, and persistence.
• Coordinate customer service responses with internal stakeholders to resolve issues diplomatically and effectively.
• Communicate regularly and effectively with management regarding goals, challenges, and performance using strong verbal, written, and listening skills.
Qualifications
• Entry-level experience or education in transportation sales preferred.
• Strong listening skills with the ability to probe for understanding and identify customer needs and priorities.
• Demonstrated negotiation skills or a strong aptitude to develop them.
• Ability to clearly present ideas, proposals, and results to customers and business leaders through various formats, including public speaking.
• Knowledge of industry practices, trends, and operational requirements within transportation and logistics.
• Ability to build and maintain a professional network of peers and industry contacts to exchange market insights.
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office applications, including Outlook, Word, and Excel, with experience in financial modeling.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, including the ability to evaluate complex economic and financial scenarios.
• Excellent organizational skills with the ability to prioritize tasks while maintaining confidentiality.
• Proven ability to manage multiple priorities independently and work autonomously.
• Team-oriented mindset with the ability to take direction, adhere to work schedules, and maintain attention to detail.
• Excellent verbal and written communication and presentation skills.
• Strong leadership and interpersonal skills with the ability to lead cross-functional and ad-hoc teams.
• Willingness and ability to travel up to 50% throughout the United States
Education
Bachelor's degree

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