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Mechanical Engineer Recent Grad Jobs in Cary, IL

Associate Engineer

Libertyville, IL · On-site

$60 - $80/hr

Bachelor's degree in engineering (preferably Mechanical, Chemical, Structural, Electrical Engineering)Recent college graduate with work experience or internships in the field of engineeringAbility to ...

This role is ideal for a recent graduate or early-career engineer with hands-on Eng View and ... Bachelor's degree in Packaging Engineering, Packaging Science, Mechanical Engineering, Industrial ...

Showing results 21-40

Mechanical Engineer Recent Grad information

See Cary, IL salary details

$46.2K

$104.4K

$168.9K

How much do mechanical engineer recent grad jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for mechanical engineer recent grad in Cary, IL is $104,359.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $82,700.00 and $128,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a mechanical engineer recent grad do?

A Mechanical Engineer Recent Grad assists in designing, developing, and testing mechanical systems or products. They typically work on tasks such as creating technical drawings, running simulations, conducting experiments, and supporting senior engineers in project work. Recent grads often work in industries like automotive, aerospace, manufacturing, or energy, gaining hands-on experience and building their engineering skills. They also collaborate with multidisciplinary teams, learn industry standards, and may help troubleshoot mechanical problems. This role serves as a foundation for professional growth and prepares them for more advanced engineering responsibilities.

What types of projects can a recent graduate in mechanical engineering expect to work on during their first year?

As a recent graduate, you can expect to be involved in a variety of entry-level projects such as assisting with product design, performing basic calculations and simulations, supporting prototype development, and preparing technical documentation. You'll often collaborate with senior engineers and cross-functional teams—including manufacturing, quality assurance, and procurement—to gain exposure to different aspects of the engineering process. This hands-on experience is designed to build your technical skills, familiarize you with industry standards, and prepare you for more complex responsibilities as you advance.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a mechanical engineer recent grad, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Mechanical Engineer Recent Grad, you need a solid understanding of engineering principles, proficiency in mathematics, and a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering or a related field. Familiarity with CAD software such as SolidWorks or AutoCAD, and experience with simulation tools like ANSYS, are typically required, along with knowledge of industry standards. Strong problem-solving abilities, teamwork, and effective communication help distinguish you in collaborative and fast-paced environments. These skills and qualities are vital to successfully design, analyze, and implement engineering solutions that meet project and industry requirements.

What is the difference between Mechanical Engineer Recent Grad vs Mechanical Design Engineer?

AspectMechanical Engineer Recent GradMechanical Design Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Mechanical Engineering, internship experienceBachelor's or Master's in Mechanical Engineering, some design coursework
Work EnvironmentEntry-level, team-based projects, manufacturing or R&D settingsDesign-focused tasks, CAD software, product development teams
Employer & Industry UsageManufacturing, aerospace, automotive, energy sectorsProduct design firms, engineering consultancies, industrial equipment

The main difference between a Mechanical Engineer Recent Grad and a Mechanical Design Engineer lies in their experience and focus. Recent grads are just starting their careers with foundational skills, while Mechanical Design Engineers typically have some experience in design processes and software. Both roles often overlap in industry and credentials, but the Design Engineer role emphasizes design-specific tasks and software proficiency.

What are popular job titles related to Mechanical Engineer Recent Grad jobs in Cary, IL?

For Mechanical Engineer Recent Grad jobs in Cary, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Mechanical Engineer Recent Grad jobs in Cary, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Mechanical Engineer Recent Grad jobs in Cary, IL are:

What cities near Cary, IL are hiring for Mechanical Engineer Recent Grad jobs?

Cities near Cary, IL with the most Mechanical Engineer Recent Grad job openings:

Associate Engineer

UCC Environmental

Libertyville, IL • On-site

$60 - $80/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 7 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Learn and review mechanical systems to support ash handling requirements under the guidance of a Senior Engineer.

  • Assist in developing contract drawings by coordinating with Electrical, Structural, and Piping/Conveyor Design Departments.

  • Support other departments such as Supply Chain, Sales, and Field Services as assigned, including on-site installation activities.


Job description

Join UCC Environmental, a leader in sustainable technology solutions:Looking for a career where your work has real impact? At UCC Environmental, you’ll join a company built on solving complex industrial challenges while advancing sustainable solutions for air, water, and solids handling around the world.We’re a privately held, family-owned business with more than a century of experience supporting mission-critical industries. Our teams work with utility power providers and heavy industrial customers globally, delivering innovative solutions in environmental compliance, material handling, and high-performance aftermarket technologies.At UCC Environmental, you’ll collaborate with a diverse, global team that values technical expertise, problem-solving, and long-term customer relationships. With continued growth across North America, EMEA, and Asia-Pacific, we offer opportunities to contribute meaningfully to an expanding international business.Headquartered in Waukegan, Illinois, UCC owns and operates sales, manufacturing, assembly, and warehousing facilities across the United States, Canada, Germany, India, and China. If you're looking for a place where your ideas matter, your work has purpose, and your career can grow alongside a global organization, UCC Environmental could be the right fit!The ideal candidate will have demonstrated capabilities in collaborating with others to perform engineering tasks within a team environment. Work experience with a privately held company will be beneficial.Position Description:The Associate Engineer performs work in various departments to learn the activities and gain basic knowledge of Systems Engineering, Sales Engineering, Field Service, Product Management and Supply Chain. Upon completion of a one-year training rotation, placement will be made in one of the engineering departments based on interest and business needs.Primary Duties and Responsibilities:Utilizing engineering guidelines and under the direction of a Sr. Engineer, learns and reviews mechanical systems to support ash handling requirements of the contract.Assists in the development of required contract drawings coordinating with the Electrical, Structural, and Piping/Conveyor Design Departments.Assists in other departments such as Supply Chain, Sales and/or Field Services as assigned. May also be on-site for installations in the field.Performs technical tasks as applicable and as directed.Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:Bachelor’s degree in engineering (preferably Mechanical, Chemical, Structural, Electrical Engineering)Recent college graduate with work experience or internships in the field of engineeringAbility to learn and adapt quicklyStrong attention to detail and organizational skillsExcellent verbal and written communication skillsProficiency in Microsoft Word and ExcelEssential Physical Abilities:Ability to sit or stand at a desk using a computer 80% of the time.Core Values and BeliefsMust be aligned with Core Values and Beliefs that drive UCC’s existing corporate culture.People – we trust and invest in our people, unlocking their full potential and they always come firstTeamwork – we respect others and create a collaborative working environment of inclusion and inspirationIntegrity – we are truthful and respectful to customers, employees, community and suppliersCustomer Satisfaction – we keep existing customers by delivering exceptional customer serviceInnovative –we encourage resourceful problem solving in the face of adversityCompensation and BenefitsBase Pay Range: $72,500 annual payBenefits:Insurance: Medical, Dental, Life, Disability, Employee Assistance Programs and Voluntary Options such as Vision, HSA, FSA (Medical, Dental, Vision and Dependent Care), Accident, Identity Theft, Legal coverageRetirement: 401(k) with up to 4% company match, Pre-Tax and Roth Options, and discretionary Annual Profit-Sharing contributionTime Off: 10 days of Vacation, Vacation Purchase Plan up to 10 days purchased per year, 5 days of Sick and 10 Holidays, Parental Leave, FMLAMiscellaneous: Student Debt Assistance, Tuition Reimbursement, Certification and License Reimbursement, Personalized Professional Development Plans and Career Path Options.How to Apply:If interested in this position, please apply online via our website at https://uccenvironmental.com/careers/ and select Explore Current Openings to apply for this position online.UCC Environmental is an Equal Opportunity Employer: Disability/Veteran. If you have difficulty applying for this job online, by e-mail, or need accommodations, please call us at 847-473-5900 and ask for Human Resources. #J-18808-Ljbffr