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Fresh Graduate Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Monstera Talent

Graduate Sales Trainee

Chicago, IL · On-site

$700 - $800/wk

Graduate Sales Trainee Not sure what "sales" actually looks like day-to-day? Let's show you. This ... We hire graduates because you bring something most sales teams are missing: fresh thinking. You've ...

AAVMP

New Graduate Associate Veterinarian

Oak Lawn, IL · On-site

$80 - $110/hr

Are you about to graduate and looking for the perfect place to start your career in a fun ... We celebrate fresh ideas and empower every team member. * Great Benefits: Enjoy competitive pay ...

Morton's The Steakhouse

Sous Chef

Schaumburg, IL · On-site

$65K - $70K/yr

... steaks, fresh seafood, and an award-winning wine selection. If you're a passionate leader who ... Graduate of an accredited culinary program is a plus EOE Pay Range USD $65,000.00 - USD $70,000.00 ...

Morton's The Steakhouse

Sous Chef

Schaumburg, IL

$65K - $70K/yr

... steaks, fresh seafood, and an award-winning wine selection. If you're a passionate leader who ... Graduate of an accredited culinary program is a plus EOE Pay Range USD $65,000.00 - USD $70,000.00 ...

Morton's The Steakhouse

Executive Sous Chef

Rosemont, IL · On-site

$65K - $72K/yr

... fresh seafood, and world-class hospitality. As Executive Sous Chef, you'll help lead culinary ... Graduate of an accredited culinary program is a plus EOE Pay Range USD $65,000.00 - USD $72,000.00 ...

Visionworks of America

Optometrist

Merrillville, IN · On-site

$65 - $75/hr

... fresh start with a fast-growing company dedicated to helping patients see great, feel great, and look great. Whether you're a seasoned professional or a recent graduate, this opportunity can take ...

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All JobsFresh Graduate JobsFresh Graduate Jobs in Chicago, IL

Fresh Graduate information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$6

$20

$34

How much do fresh graduate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average hourly pay for fresh graduate in Chicago, IL is $20.14, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.58 and $22.02 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a fresh graduate?

Fresh graduates are individuals who have recently completed their degree or diploma from a university, college, or other educational institution. They typically have little to no professional work experience in their chosen field. Fresh graduates are often seeking their first full-time job and are looking to apply the skills and knowledge they gained during their studies to the workforce. Employers may offer entry-level positions, internships, or trainee programs specifically for fresh graduates to help them transition into their careers.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a fresh graduate?

To thrive as a Fresh Graduate, you need a relevant academic degree, foundational knowledge in your field, and a willingness to learn. Familiarity with productivity software such as Microsoft Office or Google Workspace, and in some industries, basic knowledge of tools like Excel, Python, or project management platforms is often expected. Strong communication, adaptability, and problem-solving abilities help you stand out among peers. These skills and qualities are important because they enable you to contribute effectively, learn quickly, and succeed in entry-level roles while building your professional reputation.

What types of training and mentorship can fresh graduates expect when starting their first professional role?

Fresh graduates often benefit from structured onboarding programs, which may include job-specific training, mentorship from experienced professionals, and opportunities to shadow team members. Many organizations assign a mentor or 'buddy' to help new hires acclimate to the company culture and navigate their responsibilities. This support helps fresh graduates build confidence, develop essential workplace skills, and establish a network within the organization, laying a strong foundation for future growth.

What is the difference between Fresh Graduate vs Intern?

AspectFresh GraduateIntern
CredentialsHigh school diploma or bachelor's degree; no work experience requiredUsually students or recent graduates; may have limited coursework or training
Work EnvironmentEntry-level, full-time position with responsibilitiesTemporary, part-time or project-based; learning-focused
Employer UsageHired as a permanent employee after onboardingProvides training and experience; often a stepping stone to full employment

In summary, a Fresh Graduate is typically hired as a full-time employee with responsibilities, while an Intern is usually a temporary position aimed at gaining experience. Both roles are entry-level, but the Fresh Graduate role often leads to permanent employment.

Fresh Graduate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Fresh Graduate job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 21% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,898 per year, or $20.1 per hour.

C++ Software Engineer | Chicago/NYC- Global Quant Firm

Oxford Knight

Chicago, IL • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 17 days ago

Job description

Salary: up to 200k + bonus
Summary
Leading HFT fund looking for a talented C++ Software Engineer to join the Core Development team, a global group of technologists responsible for architecting, building and maintaining the algorithmic trading platform.
In this role, you'll focus on C++ functionality and be tasked with creating and optimising scalable, multi-tiered applications and infrastructure.
Technology is prized by the traders as crucial to their continued success. Unique in their field, this global firm combines the lively, positive spirit of a start-up with the stability of a longer-established player.
This role would suit someone who is able to solve difficult technical problems in a fast-paced and energetic environment.
Requirements
  • Minimum 2 years' C++ programming experience in a Linux environment
  • Solid understanding of computer systems - operating systems, networks, performance optimization, etc.
  • Deep-level knowledge of object oriented design and multithreaded programming
  • Experience in creating/supporting cross-platform multithreaded applications
  • Bachelor's degree in Computer Science or Computer Engineering (or related field)

NB: Please don ' t apply if you are a fresh graduate.
Benefits
  • Competitive base salary & bonus
  • Enormous opportunity to grow and have an impact
  • Contributions are rewarded; career progression supported
  • Free breakfast, lunch and dinner

Whilst we carefully review all applications, to all jobs, due to the high volume of applications we receive it is not possible to respond to those who have not been successful.
Contact
If this sounds like you, or you'd like to know more, please get in touch.
Andy Stirling-Martin
andy@oxfordknight.co.uk
+44 (0)20 3137 9579
linkedin.com/in/andrew-stirling-martin-7664a946

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