ZipRecruiter

Log In

2

Entry Level Reliability Engineer Jobs in Illinois

Just In Time Staffing LLC

Be Seen First

Entry Level Manufacturing Engineer

Elgin, IL · On-site

$65K - $82K/yr

Position: Entry- Level Manufacturing Engineer Job Type : Direct Hire Pay: $65,000 - $82,000 ... reliability, and support continuous improvement initiatives. Responsibilities Equipment ...

RFA Engineering

Quality/Test Engineer

Chillicothe, IL · On-site

$70K - $95K/yr

We are seeking an entry level to experienced candidate to become an integral part of our ... Support reliability, durability, and performance testing activities. * Create and maintain test ...

Gotion, Inc.

Junior Equipment Engineer

Manteno, IL · On-site

This is an excellent entry-level opportunity for an early-career engineer seeking to build ... and reliability * Provide hands-on support to production and maintenance teams during daily ...

Gotion, Inc.

Junior Equipment Engineer

Manteno, IL · On-site

This is an excellent entry-level opportunity for an early-career engineer seeking to build ... and reliability * Provide hands-on support to production and maintenance teams during daily ...

Lanco

Mechanical Engineer

Hazel Crest, IL · On-site

$75K - $90K/yr

We are reliability: Designed for decades of service life, minimizing downtime and lowering total ... * Entry-level to early-career experience in mechanical design, product development, or ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsReliability Engineer JobsEntry Level Reliability Engineer JobsEntry Level Reliability Engineer Jobs in Illinois

Entry Level Reliability Engineer information

See Illinois salary details

$59.1K

$114.3K

$136.6K

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

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level reliability engineer in Illinois is $114,319.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $99,300.00 and $125,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an entry level reliability engineer do?

An Entry Level Reliability Engineer helps ensure that products, systems, or processes operate reliably and meet quality standards. They assist in analyzing failure data, identifying root causes of issues, and working with senior engineers to improve designs or maintenance procedures. Their tasks often include running tests, collecting data, and maintaining documentation. Entry level roles focus on learning industry standards and supporting projects that enhance reliability and performance.

Is reliability engineering in demand?

Reliability engineering is in high demand across industries such as manufacturing, energy, and aerospace, as companies prioritize system uptime and safety. Entry-level reliability engineers with skills in data analysis, failure modes, and tools like FMEA or root cause analysis are sought after to improve product and system performance.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level reliability engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Reliability Engineer, you need a background in engineering (such as mechanical, electrical, or industrial), strong analytical skills, and a basic understanding of reliability principles and failure analysis. Familiarity with tools like reliability modeling software, root cause analysis methods, and Computerized Maintenance Management Systems (CMMS) is commonly expected. Attention to detail, effective communication, and a collaborative mindset are standout soft skills in this role. These competencies are vital for ensuring equipment reliability, minimizing downtime, and supporting continuous improvement initiatives in technical environments.

How to get into entry level reliability engineering?

To enter an entry-level reliability engineering role, candidates typically need a bachelor's degree in engineering, manufacturing, or a related field. Gaining skills in data analysis, root cause analysis, and familiarity with reliability tools like FMEA or RCM can be beneficial, along with internships or hands-on experience in maintenance or quality assurance environments.

What is the difference between Entry Level Reliability Engineer vs Maintenance Technician?

AspectEntry Level Reliability EngineerMaintenance Technician
Required CredentialsBachelor's in engineering or related field; certifications like Certified Reliability Engineer (CRE) beneficialHigh school diploma or technical training; certifications like HVAC, electrical, or mechanical licenses
Work EnvironmentOffice and plant floor; data analysis and equipment monitoringPrimarily plant floor; hands-on equipment repair and maintenance
Employer & Industry UsageManufacturing, energy, aerospace; focus on system reliability and performanceManufacturing, facilities, industrial plants; focus on equipment upkeep
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

The Entry Level Reliability Engineer focuses on analyzing data, improving system reliability, and preventing failures, often requiring a degree in engineering. In contrast, Maintenance Technicians perform hands-on repairs and routine maintenance. While both roles support operational efficiency, the Reliability Engineer emphasizes analysis and planning, whereas the Technician emphasizes direct equipment repair.

What types of projects and responsibilities can an entry level reliability engineer expect during their first year on the job?

As an Entry Level Reliability Engineer, you will typically start by supporting senior engineers in collecting and analyzing equipment performance data, conducting root cause analyses for failures, and assisting with preventive maintenance planning. You may be tasked with monitoring asset health, updating reliability databases, and participating in team meetings to discuss improvement strategies. Over time, you’ll take on more independent projects, such as developing reliability models or leading smaller failure investigations, which helps build your technical expertise and teamwork skills. This collaborative environment offers valuable exposure to different engineering disciplines and sets a strong foundation for career advancement.
What are the most commonly searched types of Reliability Engineer jobs in Illinois? The most popular types of Reliability Engineer jobs in Illinois are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Reliability Engineer jobs in Illinois? For Entry Level Reliability Engineer jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Reliability Engineer jobs in Illinois look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Reliability Engineer jobs in Illinois are:
What cities in Illinois are hiring for Entry Level Reliability Engineer jobs? Cities in Illinois with the most Entry Level Reliability Engineer job openings:
Entry Level Reliability Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Reliability Engineer job openings in Illinois as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 91% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $114,319 per year, or $55 per hour.

Entry Level Mechanical Engineer

RFA Engineering

Chillicothe, IL • On-site

$60K - $78K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 21 days ago

Job description

RFA Engineering (www.rfamec.com) is an engineering service provider dedicated to delivering our clients with timely engineering support and expertise. We are seeking an Entry Level candidate to become an integral part of our engineering team. The selected candidate will work with an experienced engineering staff using state-of-the-art engineering tools & processes. This position will operate onsite at our customer's world-class engineering and manufacturing facility.
This is a full-time position with a full benefit package listed below that includes opportunities for professional growth, direct hire by our customers, and additional opportunities within our own organization.
Entry Level Mechanical Engineer
The selected candidate will work with an experienced engineering staff supporting the development of engines, powertrain systems, cast components, and off-highway equipment. Work will include product design, product improvement, cost reduction, product health, prototype support, validation, and manufacturing support activities. Potential projects may involve diesel and natural gas engines, axles, drives, gears, torque converters, cast components, and systems used in construction, mining, and industrial equipment. The work will be highly collaborative with both internal customers and external suppliers.
Responsibilities
  • Participate in design, development, build, and validation activities related to engines, powertrain systems, and off-highway equipment.
  • Collaborate with design teams to develop and improve mechanical systems and components.
  • Work with validation and system engineers to ensure product requirements are satisfied through appropriate testing and analysis.
  • Support prototype, pilot, and production build activities.
  • Assist with product quality, reliability, and continuous improvement initiatives.
  • Support root cause investigations and implementation of corrective actions.
  • Work with factory operations, manufacturing, quality, and supplier teams to support robust product solutions.
  • Support Bill of Material (BOM) creation and maintenance activities.
  • Create and update engineering documentation, models, and product structures.
  • Assist with APQP activities and product development processes.
  • Support supplier and customer interactions as needed.
  • Collaborate with other groups (Engineering, Manufacturing, Purchasing, Validation, Quality, Supplier Development, etc.) as necessary.
  • Travel to supplier or customer sites pending project need (up to ~5%).

Requirements
  • BSME, BSMET or equivalent degree with experience.
  • Entry level candidates and experienced candidates will be considered.
  • Strong mechanical aptitude demonstrated through work experience or hobbies.
  • Excellent communication both written and verbal.
  • Demonstrated ability to meet deadlines and commitments.
  • Strong analytical, problem solving and troubleshooting skills.
  • Ability to thrive in a team environment.
  • Ability to travel (less than 10% of time).

Desired Attributes
  • Experience with the APQP (Advanced Product Quality Planning) process.
  • Experience in 3-D Modeling Software; Creo (Pro/Engineer) experience.
  • Previous experience with Teamcenter or other PDM software.
  • Experience with manufacturing processes.
  • Design experience or exposure to off-road mobile equipment, engines, powertrain systems, or heavy machinery.
  • Experience with shop or factory support.
  • Exposure to validation, prototype builds, testing, or product development activities.
  • Desire to work in an engineering environment focusing on robust & cost effective design.

Visa sponsorship is NOT available for this position.
Pay Range: $60,000-$78,000 - Commensurate with experience
About RFA Engineering
RFA Engineering has provided product development and engineering services to industry leading customers since 1943. Our primary focus is the development of off highway equipment including agricultural, construction, mining, recreational, industrial, and special machines. Our work includes concept development, product design, documentation, problem-solving, simulation, optimization, and testing of components, systems and complete machines. Our engineering staff is located at our Engineering Center in Minneapolis, branch office in Dubuque, IA, and at numerous customer sites throughout the U.S.
Competitive Benefits
  • Health and Dental Insurance
  • Health Savings Account
  • TelaDoc: Virtual Health Care
  • Vision Insurance
  • Company Paid / Supplemental Life Insurance
  • Company Paid Long-Term Disability
  • Supplemental Short-Term Disability
  • Retirement Savings Account (Traditional 401k & Roth 401k)
  • Flexible Spending Plan Dependent Care
  • Bonus Plan (Exempt Employees Only)
  • Paid Time Off (PTO)
  • Paid Holidays
  • Bereavement Leave
  • Employee Assistance Programs (EAP)
  • Education Assistance

Equal Opportunity and Veteran Friendly
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

Apply