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Graduate Engineering Trainee Jobs in Chicago, IL

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Graduate Engineering Trainee information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$14

$21

$37

How much do graduate engineering trainee jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for graduate engineering 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 cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Graduate Engineering Trainee jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Graduate Engineering Trainee job openings:

Infographic showing various Graduate Engineering Trainee job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 85% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,317 per year, or $21.8 per hour.

Trainee Mechanical and/or Industrial Engineering

Chicago, IL • On-site

Aspen Guard LLC
See more jobs at Aspen Guard LLCexternal

$72K - $97K/yr

Temporary

Re-posted 8 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams to identify areas for process enhancement and waste reduction.

  • Contribute to the implementation of lean manufacturing techniques to streamline production processes.

  • Assist in analyzing production workflows, identifying bottlenecks, and proposing viable solutions.

Job description

Company Overview:  

Folding Guard is an industry leader in manufacturing security and safety products. With a strong commitment to innovation and quality, we serve a diverse range of industries. We are seeking a motivated Trainee with an engineering background and a focus on Mechanic or Industrial Engineering, specifically with expertise in Lean Manufacturing Concepts, to join our team.

Position Overview:  

As a Trainee in Mechanical /Industrial Engineer with a specialization in Lean Manufacturing Concepts, you will play a key role in optimizing our manufacturing processes and ensuring the highest level of operational efficiency. This role is designed for an engineering graduate who is passionate about applying lean methodologies to drive continuous improvement in a manufacturing environment.

Key Responsibilities:  

  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams to identify areas for process enhancement and waste reduction.
  • Contribute to the implementation of lean manufacturing techniques to streamline production processes.
  • Assist in analyzing production workflows, identifying bottlenecks, and proposing viable solutions.
  • Engage in root cause analysis to address operational challenges and implement corrective actions.
  • Support the establishment and monitoring of key performance indicators (KPIs) to measure process effectiveness.
  • Participate in the development and execution of training programs to promote a culture of continuous improvement.
  • Attend workshops, training sessions, and learning opportunities to deepen your knowledge of lean manufacturing concepts.

Qualifications:  

  • Bachelor's degree in Engineering, with a focus on Mechanical, Industrial Engineering, or related field.
  • Solid understanding of lean manufacturing principles, methodologies, and tools.
  • Familiarity with concepts such as Value Stream Mapping, 5S, Kaizen, Six Sigma, etc.
  • Strong analytical skills and the ability to identify process inefficiencies.
  • Effective communication skills to collaborate with cross-functional teams.
  • Detail-oriented, organized, and able to manage multiple tasks concurrently.
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and data analysis software.

Benefits:  

  • Comprehensive training and mentorship to develop expertise in lean manufacturing methodologies.
  • Exposure to real-world projects that contribute to the organization's growth and success.
  • Opportunity to work alongside experienced professionals and gain insights into the manufacturing industry.

Competitive compensation and potential for career advancement within the organization.

Application Process:  

If you are an engineering graduate with a keen interest in applying lean manufacturing concepts to industrial processes, we encourage you to apply. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.

Folding Guard is committed to diversity and is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, or protected veteran status. Individuals with disabilities will be provided with reasonable accommodations as needed.

Join us in our mission to drive manufacturing excellence through continuous improvement. Apply today and be a part of our innovative team!