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Environmental Engineer Trainee Jobs in Chicago, IL

SwiftX Inc.

Management Trainee

Schiller Park, IL · On-site

$25/hr

Supply Chain, Logistics, Industrial Engineering, Business, Economics, Operations Management, or ... Ability to thrive in a fast-paced operational environment * Strong teamwork and collaboration ...

SwiftX Inc.

Management Trainee

Schiller Park, IL

$25/hr

Supply Chain, Logistics, Industrial Engineering, Business, Economics, Operations Management, or ... Ability to thrive in a fast-paced operational environment * Strong teamwork and collaboration ...

VAST Data

Senior Systems Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$107K - $147K/yr

Ability to perform in an unstructured environment. * Understanding of classic unstructured data ... trainees. * Knowledge of virtualization, high-performance networking and enterprise security.

ACS Management Group LLC

Be Seen First

Form Fabricator / CNC Wire Cutter Trainee

West Chicago, IL · On-site

$18 - $22/hr

Supportive and knowledgeable team environment. * Opportunities for advancement within the company ... and developers, ACS brings deep, practical construction knowledge to every project, allowing ...

Marriott

Engineer I U (Trainee)

Chicago, IL · On-site

We actively foster an environment where the unique backgrounds of our associates are valued and celebrated.Our greatest strength lies in the rich blend of culture, talent, and experiences of our ...

Marriott

Engineer I U (Trainee)

Chicago, IL

We actively foster an environment where the unique backgrounds of our associates are valued and celebrated.Our greatest strength lies in the rich blend of culture, talent, and experiences of our ...

Lillibridge Healthcare Services

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Maintenance Technician Trainee

Libertyville, IL · On-site

$21 - $26/hr

... quality environments for health systems, physicians, and medical service groups nationwide ... the onsite engineering team. This role plays a key part in maintaining the reliability and ...

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Environmental Engineer Trainee information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$14

$21

$37

How much do environmental engineer trainee jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for environmental engineer trainee in Chicago, IL is $21.79, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.87 and $25.00 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Environmental Engineer Trainee, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Environmental Engineer Trainee, you need a solid grounding in environmental science and engineering principles, typically supported by a bachelor's degree in environmental engineering or a related field. Familiarity with technical tools such as GIS software, AutoCAD, and environmental modeling systems, as well as knowledge of relevant regulations, is often required. Strong analytical thinking, effective communication, and teamwork skills help trainees collaborate on projects and convey complex information clearly. These competencies are vital for ensuring accurate data analysis, regulatory compliance, and successful project outcomes in the environmental sector.

What types of projects and responsibilities can an Environmental Engineer Trainee expect during their first year?

As an Environmental Engineer Trainee, you will typically assist with data collection, site assessments, and environmental monitoring as part of larger project teams. Early responsibilities often include preparing reports, conducting basic analyses, and supporting senior engineers with regulatory compliance tasks. You may also participate in field visits, sample collection, and the implementation of environmental protection measures. This role provides exposure to a variety of projects, such as water and air quality management, waste treatment, and environmental impact assessments, allowing you to develop a strong foundation for advancement.

What is the difference between Environmental Engineer Trainee vs Environmental Engineer?

AspectEnvironmental Engineer TraineeEnvironmental Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in environmental engineering or related field; internship or trainee programBachelor's degree; often requires professional engineering (PE) license for advanced roles
Work EnvironmentEntry-level, supervised, often in training programs or internshipsFull professional role, independent project work, field and office settings
Employer & Industry UsageInternship programs, entry-level positions in environmental consulting, government, industryEstablished professional roles in similar sectors, responsible for project design and implementation

The main difference between an Environmental Engineer Trainee and an Environmental Engineer is experience level and responsibility. Trainees are in training, gaining skills and knowledge, while Environmental Engineers are fully qualified professionals managing projects independently.

What does an Environmental Engineer Trainee do?

An Environmental Engineer Trainee assists experienced engineers in designing, planning, and implementing projects that help protect the environment. Typical tasks include collecting and analyzing environmental data, preparing reports, conducting site assessments, and supporting the development of solutions to issues like pollution, waste management, and water treatment. Trainees also learn to ensure compliance with environmental regulations and standards while gaining hands-on experience to advance their careers. This role provides foundational training and exposure to various aspects of environmental engineering.
What are the most commonly searched types of Environmental Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Environmental Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What are popular job titles related to Environmental Engineer Trainee jobs in Chicago, IL? For Environmental Engineer Trainee jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Environmental Engineer Trainee jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Environmental Engineer Trainee jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Environmental Engineer Trainee jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Environmental Engineer Trainee job openings:
Environmental Engineer Trainee jobs near you
Infographic showing various Environmental Engineer Trainee job openings in Chicago, IL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,317 per year, or $21.8 per hour.

PASSENGER ENGINEER TRAINEE - 90267361 - Chicago

Amtrak

Chicago, IL • On-site

$34.42 - $35.62/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 18 days ago

Amtrak rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 144 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

39th of 97 rated public transport

Job description

Your success is a train ride away!

As we move America's workforce toward the future, Amtrak connects businesses and communities across the country. We employ more than 20,000 diverse, energetic professionals in a variety of career fields throughout the United States. The safety of our passengers, our employees, the public and our operating environment is our priority, and the success of our railroad is due to our employees.

Are you ready to join our team?

Our values of 'Do the Right Thing, Excel Together and Put Customers First' are at the heart of what matters most to us, and our Core Capabilities, 'Building Trust, Accountability, Effective Communication, Customer Focus, and Proactive Safety & Security' are what every employee needs to know and do to be most impactful at Amtrak. By living the Amtrak values, focusing on our capabilities, and actively embracing and fostering diverse ideas, backgrounds, and perspectives, together we will honor our past and make Amtrak a company of the future.

Job Summary

Consistently and safely operate locomotives and trains in compliance with federal regulations and corporate policies. Operates equipment during varying work hours within a 24/7 transportation environment maintaining alertness, situational awareness and vigilance. Thinks and functions independently and utilizes clear and effective verbal communication skills in interaction with fellow crew members and other personnel responsible for safe and efficient train movement.

Minimum Qualifications
  • H.S. Diploma or GED Required.
  • Some work experience demonstrates the ability to maintain alertness, awareness and vigilance, as well as clear, effective verbal communication skills in the performance of work. Satisfactory attendance and safe work record. Prior railroad operating experience and work history that demonstrates the ability to adapt to variable and often changing work hours preferred.
  • Although a driver's license is not required, applicants with a driver's license must provide a certified copy of motor vehicle driving record from the chief of the state driver's licensing agency in which the applicant was last issued a license and any license(s) issued or reissued from other state(s) within the preceding 60 months. Motor vehicle records must be void of any drug and alcohol violations within the previous 36 months. 2. Must have a motor vehicle driving record void of any convictions or state action canceling, revoking, suspending or denying a driver's license for operating a motor vehicle while under the influence of or impaired by alcohol or a controlled substance within the last 36 months or a record of refusal to undergo such testing as required by state law within the last 36 months. 3. Must sign a release of records authorizing all previous railroad employees to provide Amtrak with background information, if applicable. In accordance with FRA regulations, previous railroad service records must be void of any drug and alcohol violations within the previous 60 months.
  • If selected, incumbent will be required to successfully complete Engineer Training as follows: 8-10 weeks classroom and field work while headquartered at Amtrak's Training Center in Wilmington, DE; followed by extensive qualifying and on-the-job training associated with the Crew Base for which hired; paid at the student training rate until incumbent achieves certification as a Class 1 Train Service Engineer.
  • Individuals currently certified as Class 1 Train Service Engineers are paid at the rate determined by the agreement schedule. 
  • Incumbents are subject to periodic medical examinations including random drug and alcohol screenings.
  • Applicants for this position will be expected to meet the criteria for vision, color vision, and hearing set forth by the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) in 49 CFR 240.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Some college or vocational training.
Communications and Interpersonal Skills

Must have excellent verbal and written communication skills.

The hourly range is $34.42 - $35.62 (with opportunity for increases, as per the applicable collective bargaining agreement, after beginning employment). 

Health and Wellbeing Financial and Retirement Work and Family Life Support Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance 401K  Rail Pass Privileges Wellness Programs Railroad Retirement Benefits Employee Assistance Program Medical Plan Opt-out Credit Life Insurance Commuter and Flexible Spending Accounts No-cost Personal Health Advocate No-cost Financial Advisor Session Fertility and Family Building Benefits

Some benefits are subject to the collective bargaining agreement. Learn more about our benefits offerings here.

Requisition ID:166665
Posting Location(s):Illinois

Relocation Offered:No
Travel Requirements:Up to 100%
You power our progress through your performance.

We want your work at Amtrak to be more than a job. We want your career at Amtrak to be a fulfilling experience where you find challenging work, rewarding opportunities, respect among colleagues, and attractive compensation. Amtrak maintains a culture that values high performance and recognizes individual employee contributions.


Amtrak is committed to a safe workplace free of drugs and alcohol. All Amtrak positions requires a pre-employment background check that includes prior employment verification, a criminal history check and a pre-employment drug screen.

Candidates who test positive for marijuana will be disqualified, regardless of any state or local statute, ordinance, regulation, or other law that legalizes or decriminalizes the use or possession of marijuana, whether for medical, recreational, or other use. Amtrak's pre-employment drug testing program is administered in accordance with DOT regulations and applicable law.


In accordance with DOT regulations (49 CFR 40.25), Amtrak is required to obtain prior drug and alcohol testing records for applicants/employees intending to perform safety-sensitive duties for covered Department of Transportation positions. If an applicant/employee refuses to provide written consent for Amtrak to obtain these records, the individual will not be permitted to perform safety-sensitive functions.

In accordance with federal law governing security checks of covered individuals for providers of public transportation (Title 6 U.S.C. 1143), Amtrak is required to screen applicants for any permanent or interim disqualifying criminal offenses.


Note that any education requirement listed above may be deemed satisfied if you have an equivalent combination of education, training and experience.

Amtrak is an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race/color, to include traits historically associated with race, including but not limited to, hair texture and hairstyles such as braids, locks and twists, religion, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth and related conditions, such as lactation), national origin/ethnicity, disability (intellectual, mental and physical), veteran status, marital status, ancestry, sexual orientation, gender identity and gender expression, genetic information, citizenship or any other personal characteristics protected by law.

What Amtrak employees say

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About Amtrak

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

As we move America's workforce toward the future, Amtrak connects businesses and communities across the country. We employ more than 20,000 diverse, energetic professionals in a variety of career fields throughout the United States. The safety of our passengers, our employees, the public and our operating environment is our priority, and the success of our railroad is due to our employees.

Industry

Travel arrangement services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Washington, DC, US

Year founded

1971

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