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Grad Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

ESTIMATOR (DEC '26 / MAY '27 GRAD) ABOUT POWER: At Power, we are builders at our core. We're also ... value engineering recommendations • Assist with subcontractor solicitation, bid review ...

ESTIMATOR (DEC '26 / MAY '27 GRAD) ABOUT POWER: At Power, we are builders at our core. We're also ... value engineering recommendations • Assist with subcontractor solicitation, bid review ...

RF Engineer

Schaumburg, IL · On-site

$73K - $90K/yr

Department Overview Astro Product Development Work in a cross functional team of engineers to ... Travel RequirementsNone Relocation ProvidedNone Position TypeNew Grad Referral Payment PlanNo Our U.

RF Engineer

Schaumburg, IL · On-site

$73K - $90K/yr

Department Overview Astro Product Development Work in a cross functional team of engineers to ... Travel Requirements None Relocation Provided None Position Type New Grad Referral Payment Plan No ...

Open to a recent grad or 0 - 3 years of experience. * Requires competent engineering and technical judgment. * Fluid Power Pneumatic certification within first 12 months through company * Proficient ...

Showing results 41-60

Grad Engineer information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$11.3K

$74.8K

$129.3K

How much do grad engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for grad engineer in Chicago, IL is $74,779.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $46,400.00 and $85,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a grad engineer?

Grad Engineers, short for Graduate Engineers, are individuals who have recently completed an engineering degree and are beginning their professional careers. They typically join organizations in entry-level engineering roles, where they receive training, mentorship, and hands-on experience in their chosen field. Grad Engineers are expected to apply the theoretical knowledge gained during their studies to real-world projects, contributing to problem-solving and innovation within their teams. Over time, they develop technical and professional skills that prepare them for more senior engineering positions.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a grad engineer?

To thrive as a Graduate Engineer, you need a strong foundation in engineering principles, analytical problem-solving, and a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with industry-standard software such as AutoCAD, MATLAB, or SolidWorks, and sometimes certifications like EIT (Engineer in Training), are commonly expected. Effective communication, teamwork, and adaptability help you excel in collaborative and fast-paced project environments. These skills ensure you can contribute effectively to technical projects, learn quickly, and support organizational goals as you develop professionally.

What opportunities for mentorship and professional development are typically available to grad engineers?

Grad Engineers often benefit from structured mentorship programs and regular training sessions, designed to help them transition smoothly into the professional engineering environment. They typically work closely with senior engineers and project managers, gaining hands-on experience and feedback on their work. Many organizations also encourage Grad Engineers to attend workshops, pursue certifications, and participate in cross-functional projects, fostering both technical skills and professional growth. These opportunities support career advancement and help Grad Engineers build a strong foundation for future leadership roles.

What is the difference between Grad Engineer vs Junior Engineer?

AspectGrad EngineerJunior Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in engineering or related field; internship or project experienceBachelor's degree in engineering; entry-level position
Work EnvironmentTraining programs, mentorship, learning-focusedProject work, task execution, supervised responsibilities
Employer & Industry UsageEntry-level role in engineering firms, manufacturing, constructionInitial role for recent graduates in similar industries

In summary, a Grad Engineer is typically a recent graduate undergoing training and development, while a Junior Engineer is an entry-level professional responsible for supporting engineering projects. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds, but the Grad Engineer position emphasizes learning and skill-building.

What job categories do people searching Grad Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Grad Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Grad Engineer jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Grad Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Grad Engineer job openings in Chicago, IL as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 87% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 84% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $74,779 per year, or $36 per hour.

Assistant Geotechnical Engineer (Chicago)

Chicago, IL • On-site

Burns & McDonnell
Civil Engineering Construction • 10K+ employees

$75K - $110K/yr

Full-time

Retirement

Re-posted 13 days ago


Burns & McDonnell rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 53 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Description
The Assistant Geotechnical Engineer will work under the supervision of a licensed professional engineer to assist project teams to create world class designs for new projects, alterations and redevelopments on a variety of projects including power, process, corporate, pipeline, airports, institutional, industrial, manufacturing, government and military facilities. The Assistant Geotechnical Engineer will work with the project team throughout the design and construction process, adapting geotechnical plans according to budget constraints, design factors or client needs. Field assignment time will be dependent upon project requirements.
  • Assists with field reconnaissance and geological research to evaluate site-specific geologic and hydrogeologic conditions and risks.
  • Assists with development of work scopes and subcontracts for subsurface investigations in support of geotechnical design and evaluation efforts.
  • Assists with performance of research and compiles project related data as required by the project team.
  • Assists with compiling geotechnical data, boring logs and subsurface profiles.
  • Assists with field observation of site investigation activities.
  • Assists in the geotechnical design of projects from the conceptual phase through design completion.
  • Assists in geotechnical hazard assessments, design of shallow and deep foundations, settlement analysis, slope stability analyses, and earthwork.
  • Assists in the preparation and review of engineering design calculations, reports, specifications and construction documents, and other technical documents as needed.
  • Applies basic knowledge of commonly used geotechnical engineering/design concepts, principles, practices, codes, and procedures within the geotechnical engineering services industry.
  • Assists with client presentations and contract administration.
  • Performs geotechnical-related construction observation during the construction phase of projects.
  • Performs other duties as assigned.
  • Complies with all policies and standards.

Qualifications
  • A bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering or a related field from a recognized, accredited program. ABET accreditation strongly preferred.
  • A master's degree in Geotechnical Engineering or Civil Engineering (with Geotechnical Emphasis) from a recognized, accredited program strongly preferred. ABET accreditation strongly preferred.
  • Prior internship and/or related consulting experience preferred.
  • Basic knowledge in standard geotechnical engineering techniques, principles and procedures.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
  • Ability to work methodically and analytically in a quantitative problem-solving environment and demonstrated critical thinking skills.
  • Proficient computer skills (e.g. Microsoft Office Suite).
  • Basic geotechnical software skills preferred, including Ensoft LPILE, slope stability (GeoStudio or UTEXAS4), liquefaction analysis software, excavation support and wall design software.
  • Strong attention to detail, facilitation, team building, collaboration, organization and problem-solving skills. Demonstrated leadership skills.
  • Engineers in Training-EIT Certification preferred.
  • Minimum of a 3.0 GPA strongly preferred.
  • Involvement on campus or in the community preferred.
  • Candidates must be legally authorized to work permanently (i.e., without time limitations, without restrictions or without need for work sponsorship) in the country where this position is located.

Compensation
$75,000.00-110,000.00 Yearly
The expected compensation range for this position is displayed in compliance with all local/state regulations. The expected compensation range for this position is based on a number of factors, including but not limited to: individual education, qualifications, prior work experience and work location. The total annual compensation package will consist of a base salary and eligibility to participate in our discretionary year-end incentive bonus program.
Benefits
Our extensive benefits package takes care of you so that you can focus on doing great work. From insurance and disability to time off and wellness programs, we provide the tools to meet your needs. As part of being 100% employee-owned, eligible employees participate in our Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) in addition to our 401(k) retirement program. For more information, please visit the Benefits & Wellness page.
This job posting will remain open a minimum of 72 hours and on an ongoing basis until filled.
EEO/Disabled/Veterans
Job Geotechnical Engineering
Primary Location US-IL-Chicago
Schedule: Full-time
Travel: Yes, 25 % of the Time
Req ID: 263926
Job Hire Type New Grad #LI-JF #M&S

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About Burns & McDonnell

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Burns & McDonnell assists clients of all sizes and industries by providing extensive physical services ranging from assessments, integrated security solutions, and large security architecture designs. Services we typically provide include security and safety system design, threat, risk, and vulnerability assessments, security surveys, security master planning, compliance to federal security programs, independent validation and verification of integrated security system operations, management of installation and maintenance, and staff augmentation to develop and implement facility management and protection processes.

Industry

Civil engineering construction

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Kansas City, MO, US

Year founded

1898

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