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Mechanical Engineer Recent Grad Jobs in Chicago, IL

Bachelors Degree in Engineering (Mechanical, Electrical or Mechatronics) or a related technical field * Open to a recent grad or 0 - 3 years of experience. * Requires competent engineering and ...

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Mechanical Engineer Recent Grad information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$46.9K

$106K

$171.5K

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

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for mechanical engineer recent grad in Chicago, IL is $105,979.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $84,000.00 and $130,300.00 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 cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Mechanical Engineer Recent Grad jobs?

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

Infographic showing various Mechanical Engineer Recent Grad job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 72% Full Time, and 28% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $105,979 per year, or $51 per hour.

Customer Support Engineer -- Mechanical & Industrial Products

Fictiv

Chicago, IL • On-site

$65K - $80K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 23 days ago


Job description

About MISUMI Americas

MISUMI Americas, a division of MISUMI Group, is a leading provider of standard, configurable, and custom manufacturing solutions. By integrating a vast catalog of components with a world-class digital manufacturing platform, MISUMI Americas empowers engineers and procurement teams to accelerate innovation across the entire product lifecycle. With operations in the San Francisco Bay Area and Chicago, the company serves as a vital partner for the most innovative companies in the Americas.

Role Summary

This is an engineering role, not a general support role. You'll be the technical expert for customers — design engineers, mechanical engineers, and buyers — turn to when they need to solve real application problems: material selection, tolerance analysis, load calculations, fit and interference decisions, and product integration into their designs. You'll also work alongside the sales team to grow MISUMI's business through hands-on technical engagement.

Essential Functions

Technical Customer Support

  • Provide expert guidance on materials, fits, tolerances, load/life calculations, sizing, and product selection via phone, email, and chat.
  • Support customers integrating Misumi components into their designs using CAD models and engineering analysis.
  • Handle complex, custom, and competitive cross-over quoting — coordinating with domestic and overseas teams to win new business.
  • Manage quality claims by working with customer service and procurement to drive resolution.

Sales & Technical Promotion

  • Act as a subject matter expert, delivering technical presentations to engineering groups with clarity and confidence.
  • Educate customers on Misumi's product line to drive adoption within their designs.
  • Partner with the field sales team on growth initiatives and engineering-led account development.

Product & Data Stewardship

  • Maintain product databases, catalog content, and website information for accuracy.
  • Support catalog review, trade shows, and warehouse inventory projects as needed.

Other: Other responsibilities may include catalog review, warehouse inventory support, trade show support, and others as necessary.

All employees are expected to maintain and contribute to the QMS.

Desired Traits:

  • Bachelor's degree in Engineering* — Mechanical, Electrical, or Industrial preferred. This is a firm requirement.
  • 0-3 years of relevant engineering or technical experience — recent graduates encouraged to apply.
  • Solid understanding of manufacturing processes, mechanical components, and their real-world application.
  • Able to read engineering drawings and perform basic mechanical calculations (tolerances, fits, load/life).
  • Proficient in 3D CAD software and Microsoft Office suite (Excel, Access, Word, PowerPoint).
  • Familiarity with CRM software; VBA/VB skills are a plus.
  • Strong communicator — written and verbal — with the ability to translate technical complexity into clear guidance.
  • Self-motivated, accountable, and comfortable working across both engineering and commercial teams.

Physical Demands

  • No physical demands

Travel: Ability to travel <10% of the time for offsite customer visits, trade shows, etc.

Salary Range: $65,000 to $80,000 per year, based upon experience  

Interested in learning more?  We look forward to hearing from you soon.

We're actively seeking teammates who:

  • Bring diverse perspectives and experience to our culture and company. 
  • Excel at being part of a strong, empathetic team.
  • Thrive in an environment emphasizing respect, honesty, collaboration, and growth.
  • Have an 'always learning' mindset that celebrates learning, not just wins. 
  • Help us continue to build a world-class organization that values the contributions of all of our teammates

We encourage applications from members of underrepresented groups, including but not limited to women, members of the LGBTQ community, people of color, people with disabilities, and veterans.