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Hardware Design Engineer Entry Level Jobs in Illinois

GHR Engineers & Associates, INC.

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Mechanical Design Engineer - Entry Level

Bloomington, IL · On-site

$65K - $75K/yr

... an entry-level Mechanical Designer to join our MEP team. You will design and coordinate HVAC ... Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering * A talent for spatial and systems thinking

GHR Engineers & Associates, INC.

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Mechanical Design Engineer - Entry Level

Peoria, IL · On-site

$65K - $75K/yr

... an entry-level Mechanical Designer to join our MEP team. You will design and coordinate HVAC ... Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering * A talent for spatial and systems thinking

GHR Engineers & Associates, INC.

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Mechanical Design Engineer - Entry Level

Carbondale, IL · On-site

$65K - $75K/yr

... an entry-level Mechanical Designer to join our MEP team. You will design and coordinate HVAC ... Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering * A talent for spatial and systems thinking

GHR Engineers & Associates, INC.

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Mechanical Design Engineer - Entry Level

Champaign, IL · On-site

$65K - $75K/yr

... an entry-level Mechanical Designer to join our MEP team. You will design and coordinate HVAC ... Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering * A talent for spatial and systems thinking

DMC Engineering

Entry Level Embedded Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$83K - $95K/yr

... hardware design to final firmware? As an Embedded Engineer at DMC, you will use your embedded ... This role is for any entry level engineer (0-3 years of experience). We have an exceptional ...

DMC Engineering

Entry Level Embedded Engineer

Chicago, IL · Hybrid

$83K - $95K/yr

... hardware design to final firmware? As an Embedded Engineer at DMC, you will use your embedded ... This role is for any entry level engineer (0-3 years of experience). We have an exceptional ...

Kinectrics

Electrical Engineer-Entry Level 1

Naperville, IL · On-site

$75K - $83K/yr

Entry Level-Electrical Engineer Location: Naperville, IL Known for the technical excellence of its ... Our Design Engineering Division provides comprehensive engineering, design, analysis and consulting ...

SWE Solutions

Design Engineer I

Chicago, IL

$33 - $48/hr

Description We are seeking a motivated Civil Design Engineer I to join our team and contribute to ... In this entry-level role, you will collaborate with experienced engineers and designers to develop ...

SWE Solutions

Design Engineer I

Chicago, IL · On-site

$33 - $48/hr

In this entry-level role, you will collaborate with experienced engineers and designers to develop ... Stay current with advancements in civil engineering design practices, tools, and regulations.

SWE Solutions

Design Engineer I

Chicago, IL · On-site

$33 - $48/hr

We are seeking a motivated Civil Design Engineer I to join our team and contribute to the ... In this entry-level role, you will collaborate with experienced engineers and designers to develop ...

Justrite Safety Group

Design Engineer

Mattoon, IL · On-site

The Design Engineer is responsible for the mechanical design, documentation, and design-to ... PEM hardware, hinges/latches). * Support and improve processes including powder coat/paint ...

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Hardware Design Engineer Entry Level information

What are some typical challenges faced by entry-level Hardware Design Engineers when transitioning from academia to industry?

Entry-level Hardware Design Engineers often find the transition from academic projects to real-world product development to be a significant adjustment. In industry, projects typically involve stricter deadlines, larger teams, and the need to balance technical requirements with cost, manufacturability, and compliance standards. Learning to use industry-standard design tools, adapting to established workflows, and effectively communicating design changes within multidisciplinary teams can be challenging but are crucial for professional growth. Embracing feedback and seeking mentorship can help new engineers navigate these challenges successfully.

What does an entry-level Hardware Design Engineer do?

An entry-level Hardware Design Engineer assists in designing, testing, and developing physical components for electronic devices and systems. They typically work with schematics, PCB layouts, and simulation tools to help bring hardware products from concept to prototype. These engineers often collaborate with senior engineers, troubleshoot hardware issues, and help ensure that designs meet performance and quality standards. Entry-level roles are a great way to gain hands-on experience and learn industry best practices.

What is the difference between Hardware Design Engineer Entry Level vs Hardware Design Engineer?

AspectHardware Design Engineer Entry LevelHardware Design Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering or related field; internship experienceBachelor's or Master's degree; several years of experience
Work EnvironmentEntry-level positions in design teams, labs, or manufacturing settingsMid to senior-level roles with increased responsibilities
Employer & Industry UsageStart of career in electronics, consumer devices, or telecommunications companiesDesigning complex hardware for advanced electronics, aerospace, or automotive industries

In summary, a Hardware Design Engineer Entry Level is an entry-stage role requiring foundational education and limited experience, focusing on learning and supporting design tasks. A Hardware Design Engineer typically has more experience, handles complex projects, and takes on greater responsibilities within the hardware development process.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry-Level Hardware Design Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry-Level Hardware Design Engineer, you need a solid background in electrical engineering principles, circuit design, and problem-solving, typically supported by a relevant bachelor's degree. Familiarity with CAD tools such as Altium Designer or OrCAD, and experience with hardware description languages (HDL) like VHDL or Verilog, are commonly required. Strong attention to detail, effective teamwork, and good communication skills help you collaborate efficiently and adapt to project challenges. These competencies are crucial for ensuring reliable hardware designs, smooth project execution, and successful integration within engineering teams.
What are the most commonly searched types of Hardware Design Engineer jobs in Illinois? The most popular types of Hardware Design Engineer jobs in Illinois are:
What are popular job titles related to Hardware Design Engineer Entry Level jobs in Illinois? For Hardware Design Engineer Entry Level jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Hardware Design Engineer Entry Level jobs in Illinois look for? The top searched job categories for Hardware Design Engineer Entry Level jobs in Illinois are:
Hardware Design Engineer Entry Level jobs near you
Infographic showing various Hardware Design Engineer Entry Level job openings in Illinois as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.
Mechanical Design Engineer - Entry Level

Mechanical Design Engineer - Entry Level

GHR Engineers & Associates, INC.

Bloomington, IL • On-site

$65K - $75K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, PTO

Posted 4 days ago

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Job description

Hybrid position - remote and on site.
About the Role

We are seeking an entry-level Mechanical Designer to join our MEP team. You will design and coordinate HVAC systems across a wide variety of project types, where your contributions are visible and your work gets built.

We’re not a large corporation — you’ll be a meaningful contributor to real projects from the start, not just another hire.

Responsibilities

  • Designing HVAC systems for a wide range of building types — heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and related mechanical systems
  • Performing load calculations and equipment selection
  • Producing construction documents in Revit and AutoCAD
  • Editing specifications, reviewing shop drawings, and answering RFIs
  • Coordinating with our MEP team across disciplines
  • Conducting site surveys and field verification — required 2 to 4 times per month
  • Applying and staying current with relevant codes and standards — ASHRAE, IMC, and IECC

Qualifications

  • Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering
  • A talent for spatial and systems thinking
  • Comfortable learning new software
  • Someone who takes ownership of their work and stays on top of their own workload
  • A clear, collaborative communicator
  • Genuine interest in building a long-term career in HVAC design

Helpful but Not Required

  • Relevant work experience
  • Experience with HAP, Trace 700, or similar load calculation software
  • EIT certification or progress toward PE licensure
  • Proficiency or aptitude in Revit and AutoCAD

Compensation & Benefits

  • Salary: $65,000–$75,000, commensurate with experience
  • Year-end bonus: Discretionary, reflecting company performance and individual factors including merit, seniority, and expertise
  • Hybrid work schedule, negotiable
  • Flexible hours
  • Health, dental, & vision insurance
  • FSA: Pre-tax dollars for medical & dependent care
  • 401(k) with employer match
  • PTO: Vacation time that grows with tenure, paid holidays, parental leave
  • Professional development: Employees who choose to pursue certifications are reimbursed for exam fees and renewals

Company Description

GHR Engineers & Associates, Inc. is a mechanical, electrical, plumbing (MEP) consulting firm. Since 1949, we have built our reputation through quality work, integrity, and service.
We design the systems that make buildings functional, sustainable, and safe, working across healthcare, K–12, commercial, municipal, and specialty building types.
We’re a close-knit team of about 20 people. We treat our employees like people with lives and commitments outside the office, and our retention speaks to that. Our team includes people who have been with us from one to thirty years.
We welcome applicants of all backgrounds and identities. We benefit from the many perspectives our people bring, and we’re committed to continuing to grow.