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Federal Engineering Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Design Engineer I

Chicago, IL ยท On-site

$33 - $48/hr

Knowledge of local, state, and federal engineering standards and permitting processes. * Engineer-In-Training (EIT) certification Benefits * Competitive salary commensurate with experience.

Project Engineer I

Chicago, IL ยท On-site

$30 - $48/hr

Knowledge of local, state, and federal engineering standards and processes. * Engineer-In-Training (EIT) certification Benefits * Competitive salary commensurate with experience. * Comprehensive ...

Knowledge of local, state, and federal engineering standards and permitting processes. * Engineer-In-Training (EIT) certification Benefits * Competitive salary commensurate with experience.

Design Engineer I

Chicago, IL ยท On-site

$33 - $48/hr

Knowledge of local, state, and federal engineering standards and permitting processes. * Engineer-In-Training (EIT) certification Benefits * Competitive salary commensurate with experience.

Project Engineer I

Chicago, IL ยท On-site

$30 - $48/hr

Knowledge of local, state, and federal engineering standards and processes. * Engineer-In-Training (EIT) certification Benefits * Competitive salary commensurate with experience. * Comprehensive ...

Project Engineer I

Chicago, IL ยท On-site

$30 - $48/hr

Knowledge of local, state, and federal engineering standards and processes. * Engineer-In-Training (EIT) certification Benefits * Competitive salary commensurate with experience. * Comprehensive ...

Structural Engineer, PE, SE

Chicago, IL ยท On-site

$113K - $131K/yr

C. (Chantilly, VA) Exp Federal delivers full-service Architecture & Engineering services, construction, and facility management services throughout the world. Exp Federal's mission is to provide ...

Federal Signal is seeking a driven and innovative Mechanical Engineer II to join our engineering team in University Park, IL. In this role, you will play a key part in the design, development, and ...

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Showing results 1-20

Federal Engineering information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$47.9K

$151.3K

$179.2K

How much do federal engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for federal engineering in Chicago, IL is $151,295.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $120,000.00 and $178,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Does the FBI hire civil engineers?

The FBI generally does not hire civil engineers for its core investigative roles, but civil engineers may be employed in specialized positions related to infrastructure security, building assessments, or technical support. These roles often require relevant engineering licenses, security clearances, and knowledge of federal building standards.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Federal Engineering position, and why are they important?

To excel in a Federal Engineering role, you need a strong background in engineering principles, a relevant degree (such as electrical, civil, or mechanical engineering), and experience with federally regulated standards and processes. Familiarity with government contracting systems, project management software, and security clearances (such as Secret or Top Secret) is often required. Outstanding problem-solving, collaboration, and communication skills help professionals work effectively across multidisciplinary teams and within structured governmental environments. These combined skills are critical for maintaining compliance, delivering technical excellence, and supporting mission-critical federal projects.

What is a Federal Engineering job?

A Federal Engineering job involves designing, developing, and maintaining technical systems and infrastructure for government agencies. Engineers in these roles work on projects related to national defense, transportation, telecommunications, and environmental protection. They must comply with federal regulations and security requirements while ensuring efficiency and innovation. These positions often require security clearances and specialized knowledge in engineering disciplines relevant to government operations.

What engineering jobs pay $500,000?

In federal engineering roles, high-level positions such as senior engineers, engineering managers, and specialized technical directors can reach or exceed $500,000 annually, especially with experience, security clearances, and leadership responsibilities. These roles often require advanced degrees, certifications, and expertise in areas like systems engineering, defense, or aerospace, and may include bonuses and benefits that contribute to total compensation.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior engineers in fields such as aerospace, petroleum, software, and systems engineering can earn $300,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, specialized skills, and leadership roles. High compensation often involves working in high-demand industries, holding advanced certifications, or managing large projects and teams.

What types of projects or assignments can Federal Engineers expect to work on within government agencies?

Federal Engineers may work on a wide range of assignments, such as infrastructure upgrades, cybersecurity initiatives, defense system development, or environmental compliance projects, depending on the agency's mission. Daily responsibilities often involve coordinating with project managers, reviewing technical documentation, ensuring adherence to federal standards, and conducting site visits or system evaluations. Collaboration with stakeholders from various departments, contractors, and regulatory bodies is common and vital to project success. This variety of work offers opportunities to develop specialized expertise and gain exposure to high-impact national projects, supporting both professional growth and public service goals.

How much does a federal engineer make?

Federal engineers typically earn between $70,000 and $130,000 annually, depending on experience, education, and specific agency. Salaries are often determined by the General Schedule (GS) pay scale, with higher grades and specialized skills leading to increased compensation. Certifications and security clearances can also impact salary levels.
What are the most commonly searched types of Federal Engineering jobs in Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Federal Engineering jobs in Chicago, IL are:
Infographic showing various Federal Engineering job openings in Chicago, IL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $151,295 per year, or $72.7 per hour.
Mechanical Engineer - Early Career - ENERCON Federal Services

Mechanical Engineer - Early Career - ENERCON Federal Services

Enercon Services, Inc.

Naperville, IL โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Posted 18 hours ago


Job description

Overview
What responsibilities will I have in this role? (including but are not limited to):
As a Mechanical Engineer at our company, you'll be part of a dynamic and forward-thinking team focused on evaluating and designing power systems for power-generating facilities. This is a fantastic opportunity for early-career engineers (1-3 years of experience) who are eager to grow their skills, take on new challenges, and make a meaningful impact.
In this role, you'll collaborate across disciplines, gaining a deep understanding of how mechanical engineering integrates with electrical, civil, and other specialties. You'll take ownership of your work by managing scope, schedule, budget, and quality with minimal oversight, while producing high-quality, error-free engineering documents that meet industry codes, standards, and client expectations.
You'll stay current with the latest industry standards and safety practices, especially those relevant to the nuclear sector, and apply that knowledge to deliver innovative, compliant solutions. Your work will directly support client needs and contribute to the success of complex engineering projects.
You'll also have the chance to build strong client relationships through clear communication and professional collaboration. Site visits will be part of your experience, allowing you to walk down plant systems and structures, interface with client personnel, and see your engineering solutions in action.
Why work for ENERCON?
At ENERCON, we're leading America's Energy Transition and shaping the future. We transcend the conventional role of an engineering and environmental services firm; we are architects of innovation, steering efficiency, and sustainability in the energy, power, and technology sectors. Immerse yourself in our vibrant culture, sculpted by an unwavering commitment to excellence and a devotion to cultivating a workplace where creativity and collaboration flourish.
Joining ENERCON means becoming an integral part of a dynamic team committed to making a tangible impact. We go beyond merely offering a job; we invest in your growth and development, empowering you to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of the industries we serve. Join us, and let's collaboratively forge a tomorrow that is sustainable, efficient, and innovative - where ENERCON leads America's energy transition and propels us into the future.
With our continued growth, we're looking for enthusiastic Engineers who love learning and solving challenges to join our dynamic and collaborative workplace. If you're eager to contribute and work on meaningful projects in a fast-paced setting, join us at ENERCON and be part of our innovative team! What are you waiting for? Join us at ENERCON!
What does our ENERCON Federal Services (EFS) Group do?
ENERCON Federal Services (EFS) offers end-to-end engineering and environmental design support for Department of Energy (DOE) and National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA) projects, many years of experience across a variety of engineering disciplines. We provide strategy, design, implementation, and health and safety services while ensuring compliance with federal regulations and robust digital security measures. With offices across the U.S., EFS can rapidly mobilize to provide local site support for ongoing operations, decommissioning, and modernization projects. Our commitment to innovation, safety, environmental stewardship, collaborative approach, and ethical business practices makes EFS a trusted partner for federal engineering and ecological service solutions.
What divisions could you work for?
  • ENERCON Federal Services (EFS)

What offices are we hiring for?
  • Kennesaw, GA
  • Overland Park, KS
  • Dallas, TX
  • Kennewick, WA

What responsibilities will I have in this role? (including but are not limited to):
  • In this role, you will have the opportunity to work in a diverse and innovative team to evaluate and design power systems at power-generating facilities.
  • Understand roles played by other disciplines on the project and is able to coordinate and interface with other engineering disciplines.
  • Manage budget, scope, schedule, and quality associated with the designated work assignment with minimal guidance and technical oversight.
  • Prepare error-free engineering documents (e.g., drawings, sketches, instructions, inputs, calculations, analyses, evaluations) according to and bounded by industry codes, standards, and regulations to support client engineering needs.
  • Maintain up-to-date and relevant knowledge of industry codes and standards, safety culture, and design techniques suitable to the nuclear industry.
  • Produce high-quality engineering deliverables in accordance with client and ENERCON Quality Assurance (QA) Programs that are consistent with project work scopes and client expectations.
  • Build strong relationships with clients through professional interactions and communications and the development of quality engineering solutions.
  • Travel to plant sites to interface with client personnel and to perform walk-downs of plant structures, systems, and components related to the project work.

What qualifications/skills will help you be successful in this role?
  • Graduated with a bachelor's or master's in Mechanical Engineering from an accredited university.
  • Available to start within the next 1-3 months.
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills for collaborating with team members, presenting design proposals, and documenting design specifications.
  • Knowledge of industry standards, willingness to participate in prototyping and testing, ability to create comprehensive design documentation preferred.
  • Proficient in Word and Excel.
  • Ability to be an individual contributor and work effectively in teams.
  • Must be able to climb stairs and ladders at client sites.
  • Must be able to effectively navigate client sites to conduct walkdowns.
  • Must be able to work outside.
  • Ability and willingness to travel for client and company projects and/or meetings.
  • Please note: Some roles may involve work on federal contracts that require employees to be citizens of the United States. For those specific positions, only applicants who can confirm their status as U.S. citizens will be considered.

Employment Requirements:
  • Ability to pass pre-employment and random drug and alcohol screenings, ENERCON and client-specific background checks, and annual motor vehicle record (MVR) checks according to company and client policies.
  • Must be a US Citizen or an approved dual citizen.

Salary Range:
The salary range for this full-time position is $80,000.00- $99,600.00. Salary ranges are determined by a combination of role, level, experience, and location. Within the range, individual pay is determined by work location and additional factors, including job-related skills, experience, and relevant education or training.
This job posting is subject to change at any time.
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Additional Information
ENERCON Services, Inc. (ENERCON) is powered by people who make a difference. We offer rewarding careers in a culture built on excellence, innovation, and growth.
Please CLICK HERE to learn more about the potential Benefits you may be eligible to receive with this role and working here at ENERCON.
The compensation range listed is a good-faith estimate of the compensation expected for this position at the time of posting. Actual compensation will be determined based on job-related skills, experience, geographic location, and internal equity.
Some positions may be performed remotely in one or more U.S. states. Compensation is aligned with applicable pay transparency requirements and reflects expected compensation at the time of posting.
Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the U.S. without current or future employer sponsorship. We ask all candidates this question to better understand work authorization and any potential sponsorship needs. Employment is contingent upon passing pre-employment and random drug/alcohol screenings, background checks, and annual motor vehicle record reviews per company and client policies.
We are an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, age, national origin, disability status, genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.