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Graduate Engineering Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Austintexas

Individuals will be capable of exercising engineering judgment within defined methods, procedures ... graduate degrees) will be required. You must provide proof of education from an accredited ...

Brindley Engineering

Associate Process Engineer

Lisle, IL

$90K - $130K/yr

... engineering environment • Opportunity to begin mentoring entry-level and graduate engineers and advance leadership skillset • Autonomy in field evaluation assignments • Advanced experience in ...

Brindley Engineering

Associate Process Engineer

Lisle, IL · On-site

$90K - $130K/yr

... engineering environment • Opportunity to begin mentoring entry-level and graduate engineers and advance leadership skillset • Autonomy in field evaluation assignments • Advanced experience in ...

Brindley Engineering

Associate Process Engineer

Lisle, IL · On-site

$90K - $130K/yr

... engineering environment Opportunity to begin mentoring entry-level and graduate engineers and advance leadership skillset Autonomy in field evaluation assignments Advanced experience in process ...

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All JobsGraduate Engineering JobsGraduate Engineering Jobs in Illinois

Graduate Engineering information

See Illinois salary details

$12

$30

$55

How much do graduate engineering jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for graduate engineering in Illinois is $30.57, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.57 and $36.83 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Graduate Engineering vs Mechanical Engineering?

AspectGraduate EngineeringMechanical Engineering
QualificationsTypically requires a bachelor's degree in engineering or related fieldRequires a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering, often with licensure options
Work EnvironmentEntry-level roles in various industries, including manufacturing, construction, and technologyDesign, analysis, and manufacturing in industries like automotive, aerospace, and energy
Employer UsageEmployers hire graduate engineers for training and development programsEmployers seek mechanical engineers for product design, testing, and maintenance

Graduate Engineering is an entry-level role for those with an engineering degree, often across multiple disciplines, while Mechanical Engineering is a specialized field focusing on designing and manufacturing mechanical systems. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds but differ in focus and career paths.

What jobs do engineering graduates get?

Engineering graduates can pursue roles such as civil, mechanical, electrical, software, or chemical engineers. These positions often require knowledge of technical tools, problem-solving skills, and sometimes professional certifications, and they are typically found in industries like manufacturing, technology, construction, and energy.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Graduate Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Graduate Engineer, you typically need a degree in engineering, strong analytical abilities, and a solid grasp of engineering principles. Familiarity with industry-standard software like AutoCAD, MATLAB, or SolidWorks, as well as any relevant certifications, is highly beneficial. Effective communication, teamwork, and problem-solving skills help set you apart in collaborative and fast-paced project environments. These skills and qualifications are crucial for delivering innovative solutions and contributing effectively to engineering projects.

Is earning $70,000 out of college with an engineering degree good?

For a graduate engineer, earning $70,000 annually is generally considered a competitive starting salary in many regions, especially for those with a bachelor's degree. Salaries can vary based on location, industry, and specialization, but this figure often reflects a solid entry-level compensation for engineering roles involving skills like CAD, MATLAB, or project management. Additional certifications or internships can further enhance earning potential over time.

What can a graduate engineer do?

A graduate engineer can perform tasks such as assisting in design, analysis, and testing of engineering projects, supporting senior engineers, and gaining practical experience in their field. They often work with tools like CAD software and may pursue certifications to advance their careers. Entry-level roles typically involve learning industry standards and developing technical skills in a professional environment.

What engineers make $500,000 a year?

Highly experienced engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum engineering, aerospace engineering, or certain senior roles in software engineering can earn $500,000 or more annually, often through a combination of base salary, bonuses, and stock options. These positions typically require advanced skills, extensive experience, and often involve leadership or executive responsibilities.

What is a graduate engineer?

A graduate engineer is someone who has recently completed an engineering degree, typically a bachelor's or master's, and is starting their professional career in the engineering field. They usually work under the supervision of experienced engineers while gaining practical experience and developing their technical and professional skills. Graduate engineers often participate in structured graduate programs, which may include rotations through different departments or projects. These roles are designed to help them transition from academic study to full professional responsibility.

What types of projects can a Graduate Engineer expect to work on during their first year?

As a Graduate Engineer, you can expect to be involved in a variety of projects that may include supporting senior engineers with design, analysis, testing, or implementation tasks. Early in your career, you might participate in rotations across different departments or disciplines, allowing you to gain exposure to multiple areas such as project management, field work, or research and development. Typically, you'll work as part of a collaborative team, contributing to both short-term assignments and longer-term projects while receiving mentorship and feedback. This hands-on experience is designed to help you build technical skills, understand organizational processes, and identify your preferred career path within engineering.
What are popular job titles related to Graduate Engineering jobs in Illinois? For Graduate Engineering jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Graduate Engineering jobs in Illinois look for? The top searched job categories for Graduate Engineering jobs in Illinois are:
Graduate Engineering jobs near you
Infographic showing various Graduate Engineering job openings in Illinois as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, 3% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $63,591 per year, or $30.6 per hour.

Graduate Engineer B - Austin Water

Austintexas

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 13 days ago

Job description

About This Position


Job Description:

Graduate Engineer B

Purpose:

Under limited supervision and with Professional Engineering review, this position uses engineering knowledge to independently perform a variety of moderately complex engineering projects/assignments that are routine in nature but that may require adaptation or modifications from standard practices. Individuals will be capable of exercising engineering judgment within defined methods, procedures, and practices.

Duties, Functions and Responsibilities:

  • Essential duties and functions, pursuant to the Americans with Disabilities Act, may include the following. Other related duties may be assigned.

  • Prepares and maintains design drawings, diagrams, charts, databases plans, and permits under the supervision of a professional engineer. Develops proposals for impacts and performing preliminary and final designs and/or prepares design criteria for assigned projects.

  • Prepares specifications as it relates to the standardization and engineering policies and practices. Reviews and provides recommendations in the evaluation and implementation for job safety procedures.

  • Prepares design criteria for assigned projects. Provides assistance in technical and financial inputs for project budget process.

  • Plans for and sizes equipment.

  • Reviews plans and development proposals for impacts, and performs preliminary and final designs for PE review.

  • Assists in the preparation of standards, equipment specifications, design procedures, and test procedures.

  • Coordinates and provides a variety technical information, under the guidance of a professional engineer, to customers by contacts with personnel to include inter- and intra-departmental administrative, engineering, and construction personnel; other government agencies; contractors; consultants; and the public to exchange information, coordinate work, answer questions, and respond to complaints.

  • Uses computerized software programs, ink or pencil drafting to prepare drawings and maps to provide technical advice and guidance to assigned work or project.

  • Prepares cost estimates/track expenditures, prepares cost estimates and engineering and feasibility reports and studies for projects. Prepares and/or provides assistance with preliminary contract documents, specifications, and plans. Assists in the preparation of final plans, specifications, special conditions and agreements and coordinates and oversees work of contractors, affected public agencies and utilities. Provides assistance with technical specifications for construction contracts. Inspects and monitors projects for compliance by reviewing work completed by contractors and monitoring compliance to specifications.

Responsibilities - Supervisor and/or Leadership Exercised:

  • None

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

Must possess required knowledge, skills, abilities, and experience and be able to explain and demonstrate, with or without reasonable accommodations, that the essential functions of the job can be performed.

  • Knowledge of engineering and design principles applicable to fields.

  • Knowledge of modern methods, materials, and techniques of assigned discipline.

  • Knowledge of City of Austin purchasing and contract policies and procedures preferred.

  • Knowledge of leadership roles and responsibilities.

  • Knowledge of applicability of established engineering principles and methods.

  • Knowledge of various computer software programs applicable to industry and job.

  • Knowledge of mathematical techniques such as trigonometry, calculus, and coordinate geometry.

  • Knowledge of preparation of cost estimates.

  • Skill in oral and written technical and/or general communication.

  • Ability to read and comprehend complex specifications, plans, and shop drawings.

  • Ability to interpret and make decisions in conformance with established policies and practices and to stay current with new regulatory requirements.

  • Ability to communicate and provide direction to peers and assigned personnel.

  • Ability to perform engineering calculations and analyze engineering problems.

Minimum Qualifications:

  • Graduation with a Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university with major coursework in Engineering or in a related field, plus two (2) years of experience in engineering.

Licenses and Certifications Required:

  • Engineer-In-Training (EIT) Certification in the State of Texas,
    OR

  • If certified in another state, must have the ability to obtain Texas EIT certification within six (6) months of employment.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Experience in industry-relevant water treatment

  • Experience reviewing or preparing surface water treatment monthly operating reports

  • Experience with water quality or hydraulic modeling

  • Experience supporting treatment optimization or regulatory readiness efforts

  • Ability to travel to multiple work sites as part of regular job duties


Notes to Candidate:

Position Overview:

Join our highly supportive and technical team as a Drinking Water Process Engineer at the Ullrich Water Treatment Plant! Ullrich is Austin Water's largest and most complex drinking water treatment facility, and this role carries significant operational responsibility in a fast-paced, high visibility environment. Whether you bring several years of industry experience or are earlier in your career, we welcome engineers who are committed, curious, and motivated to help safeguard Austin's drinking water supply.

As a Drinking Water Process Engineer, you will play a critical role in optimizing treatment performance; supporting reliable, efficient operations; and ensuring compliance with all state and federal regulatory requirements. You will work directly with operations and maintenance staff in the field, provide analytical and technical guidance, support capital improvement projects, and help lead innovation, sustainability, and resiliency initiatives at the facility.

The superintendent relies on the process engineer at a level comparable to the treatment operations and maintenance supervisors. The role functions with a departmenthead mindset, supporting both daytoday operations and longterm strategic improvements in treatment reliability and performance.

Role Context
Ullrich's scale (167 MGD ultimate capacity) and complexity (7 upflow clarifiers, 18 filters, and multiple pump stations) require a process engineer capable of operating confidently from day one in a highintensity, highimpact environment. The position frequently addresses emergent operational issues, engages with consultants and internal engineering teams, and provides timely technical direction to support ongoing plant performance and regulatory compliance.

Pay Range:

  • $75,930.00 - $96,430 annually

Retention Incentive Bonus:

This position may be eligible for an Incentive Bonus of up to $3,000!

  • $500 after 90 days

  • $500 after 180 days

  • $1,000 after 1 year

  • $1,000 after 2 years

Work Location:

  • Ullrich Water Treatment Plant, 1000 Forest View Dr, Austin TX 78746

Days & Hours:

  • Monday - Friday, 7:00 am - 3:30 pm

Benefits:

  • Working with Austin Water provides a number of health and welfare benefits, such as medical, paid leave time, a great retirement plan, training opportunities and more - click HERE for more information.

When completing the City of Austin employment application:

  • A detailed, complete employment application is required. It helps us to better evaluate your qualifications and will be used to determine salary if you are selected for this position.

  • Provide each job title and accurate employment dates for all jobs included on the application.

  • Your work history should include the duties you performed, any supervisory or lead responsibilities, and any equipment and computer software used.

  • The City of Austin employment application is an official document; incomplete applications will not be considered.

  • A resume is required but will not substitute for a complete employment application. Incomplete applications will not be considered.

  • A cover letter is also required. In the cover letter candidates should describe, in concise detail, their interest in this position and highlight any prior experience that is relevant to this position.

If you are selected as a top candidate:

  • Verification of your education (which may include high school graduation or GED, undergraduate and/or graduate degrees) will be required. You must provide proof of education from an accredited organization/institution.

  • If you are in the military or a veteran, you will need to provide a copy of your DD-214 prior to confirming a start date.

Essential:

  • This position has been designated as essential for the City of Austin. Essential positions maintain emergency services or provide public health, safety, utility services, and welfare of the community. In the event of a designated emergency, these positions will be called back or retained to assist with operations and recovery.

Secondary Employment:

  • All Austin Water employees are prohibited from accepting or engaging in any secondary employment that might conflict or interfere with an employee's duty and responsibility to the Department.

  • Austin Water will review all secondary employment.

  • Employees are required to submit a Secondary Employment Application for review and approval upon being hired with Austin Water, as well as current Austin Water employees considering secondary employment.

EEO Statement for City of Austin:

  • The City of Austin will not discriminate against any applicant or employee based on race, creed, color, national origin, sex, gender identity, age, religion, veteran status, disability, or sexual orientation. In addition, the City will not discriminate in employment decisions on the basis of an individual's AIDS, AIDS Related Complex, or HIV status; nor will the City discriminate against individuals who are perceived to be at risk of HIV infection, or who associate with individuals who are believed to be at risk.

  • City of Austin is committed to compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act. If you require reasonable accommodation during the application process or have a question regarding an essential job function, please call (512) 974-3210 or Texas Relay by dialing 7-1-1.

Important Note to Applicants:

All Austin Water worksite locations are tobacco-free.

Use of tobacco products and/or e-cigarettes is not permitted on any AW worksite - including construction sites, parking lots, garages or in any personal vehicle located on the premises.

Please be aware that the Job Posting Close Date reflects the final day to apply, but the posting will close at 11:59 PM the day before the date listed. All application steps, including attachments and submission, must be fully completed before that time.

We also recommend that you save or print a copy of the job posting for your records. Once a posting has closed, it will no longer be viewable in the system.

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JOIN THE CITY OF AUSTIN TEAMAt the City of Austin, we are more than just an employer-we are a vibrant community dedicated to shaping one of the nation's most dynamic and innovative cities. As we strive to fulfill our commitment as public servants, it is important that we ground our efforts in a set of guiding principles - Empathy, Ethics, Excellence, Engagement, and Equity - that anchor our delivery of services that significantly impact the lives of Austinites. Joining the City of Austin means embarking on a purposeful career, contributing to the community, and being part of a forward-thinking organization that values every employee.What Makes the City of Austin Special?

  • Make a Difference: Join a team driving meaningful change in one of the fastest-growing cities in the nation.

  • Value and Innovation: Work in an environment where employees are valued, and innovation thrives.

  • Competitive Benefits: Enjoy a comprehensive compensation package that includes generous leave, work-life balance programs, and extensive benefits.

  • Retirement Security: Plan for the future with the City of Austin Employees' Retirement System.

  • Sustainable Transportation Options: Commute easily with access to public transit and bike-friendly infrastructure.

  • Focus on Wellness: Stay healthy through wellness programs, on-site fitness centers, and mental health support.

  • Career Growth: Advance your skills and expertise with professional development and leadership opportunities.

  • Modern Workspaces: Work in innovative and sustainable environments that foster collaboration and inspiration.

By joining us, you become part of a community that values its people and is committed to making Austin the most thriving and resilient city in the country.

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EEO Statement for City of Austin:

The City of Austin will not discriminate against any applicant or employee based on race, creed, color, national origin, sex, gender identity, age, religion, veteran status, disability, or sexual orientation. In addition, the City will not discriminate in employment decisions on the basis of an individual's AIDS, AIDS Related Complex, or HIV status; nor will the City discriminate against individuals who are perceived to be at risk of HIV infection, or who associate with individuals who ...

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