Entry Level Python Programmer Jobs in Chicago, IL

This position has a target start date in summer 2026.

• This position will offer you the ability to directly apply your knowledge of materials, structural analysis, structural steel design, and reinforced concrete design.
• As a member of an engineering and design team, you will work on a wide range of power, energy and industrial related projects, creating calculations to develop structural document designs, and preparing technical specifications. Additionally, you will conduct structural analyses, which include complex loading conditions such as wind, seismic, and pressurization.
• Using our state-of-the-art computer tools, you will perform the structural analysis and design of steel frames, connections, concrete members, equipment and piping supports, and foundations.
• There is the potential for you to travel to client and vendor offices for design reviews, and to plant site locations for structural condition assessments, construction coordination and field verification of designs. 

This position is based on a hybrid work schedule and will require in-office work 3 days per week.

We do not sponsor employees for work authorization in the U.S. for this position.

Essential skills and experience:

• This position requires a BS or MS of Civil Engineering with a graduation in spring 2026 and a strong academic background and interest in behavior of materials, structural analysis, structural steel design, and reinforced concrete design.
• Knowledge of the practical application of structural engineering including loads analysis for structural supports, and design integrity.
• Knowledge of design techniques, tools, and principles involved in the production of technical plans, blueprints, drawings, and models.
• Proficiency with MS Office applications.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

Valued but not required skills and experience:

• Successful completion of the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam, and designation as an Engineer in Training.
• A Bachelor’s or Master’s of Science degree from an ABET Engineering Accreditation Commission-approved program.
• Experience in writing and providing support documentation for Structural Engineering calculations.
• Proficiency with any of the following programs: MathCad, STAAD PRO, SAP2000, SAFE, STRUDL, or ANSYS.
• Familiarity with design codes and standards such as IBC, ASCE 7, AISC, and ACI 318.
• Related engineering internship or co-op work experience.

In this role, we expect people to be willing or able to solve problems using modern tools:

• You are expected to take engineering problems from issue to solution using data and modern tools such as automation and AI to improve workflows, reduce rework, and deliver cost-effective designs.
• Many engineers in these roles build or use automation to create calculations, summarize technical documents, or draft design documentation, including appropriate use of agentic AI tools, with strong engineering judgment and verification of results.
• Programming or scripting (e.g., Python, MATLAB, advanced Excel) to automate calculations, design checks, reporting, or data transformation is valued but not required.
• We also value additional learning, such as a minor, certificate, or other training in Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence, Software Engineering, or related fields that helps you apply automation or agentic AI to real engineering problems.

At Sargent & Lundy, we care about the health and well-being of our employees. Our commitment extends beyond the workplace, offering comprehensive healthcare plans and generous paid time off to support our team members in every aspect of their lives. We understand the importance of work-life balance, which is why we are proud to provide competitive, award-winning benefits. Our dedication to employee satisfaction has earned us the prestigious Top Workplaces Culture Excellence Award for compensation and benefits in 2022, 2023, and 2024.

• Health Plans: Medical, Dental, Vision
• Life & Accident Insurance
• Disability Coverage
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Back-Up Daycare
• FSA & HSA

• 401(k)
• Pre-Tax Commuter Account
• Merit Scholarship Program
• Employee Discount Program
• Corporate Charitable Giving Program
• Tuition Assistance
• First Professional Licensure Bonus
• Employee Referral Bonus

• Paid Annual Personal/Sick Time (PST)
• Paid Vacation
• Paid Holidays
• Paid Parental Leave
• Paid Bereavement Leave
• Flexible Work Arrangements

The Energy & Industrial Group (EIG) specializes in delivering advanced engineering solutions across various sectors, including power generation, environmental compliance, oil & gas, and industrial projects, from new plant design to plant betterment and upgrade services for operating facilities. We have designed nearly 900 conventional power plants, yielding over 100,000 megawatts (MW) of generation capacity. Our expertise includes numerous recent and ongoing combined cycle projects that leverage the latest advanced machinery, including combustion turbines, steam turbines, and heat recovery steam generators from all leading suppliers. EIG is recognized for its commitment to decarbonization through innovative technologies in renewable energy, carbon capture, and hydrogen power. We excel in detailed engineering services for photovoltaic (PV) solar projects and energy storage integration, and lead the industry in carbon capture technologies, managing projects from conceptual studies, pilot demonstrations and through commercial scale implementation for utilities and industrial plants.

Sargent & Lundy is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any protected status as defined by applicable law.