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Military Engineering Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

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Military Engineering information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$47.9K

$151.3K

$179.2K

How much do military engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for military engineering in Chicago, IL is $151,295.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $120,000.00 and $178,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is military engineering?

Military engineering is a specialized field that involves designing, constructing, and maintaining structures and systems to support military operations. This includes building fortifications, bridges, roads, airfields, and other infrastructure essential for defense and combat effectiveness. Military engineers also handle tasks like demolitions, minefield clearance, and providing logistical support to ensure the mobility, survivability, and effectiveness of armed forces in various environments.

What are the qualifications to get a military engineering job?

The qualifications for a military engineering job differ by position. To be a military engineer, you need a bachelor’s degree in a specific type of engineering, such as civil, hydraulic, or architectural engineering. Many positions also require you to have at least some experience before employment with the federal government. You need strong technical skills, including experience with CAD software. Some military engineering jobs are only open to specific groups, such as those currently enlisted in the armed forces or military spouses.

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

To thrive as a Military Engineer, you need a solid background in engineering principles, mathematics, and physical sciences, typically supported by a relevant engineering degree and military training. Familiarity with CAD software, GIS systems, and military construction standards, along with certifications such as Professional Engineer (PE), is often required. Strong problem-solving, adaptability, and teamwork skills help individuals excel in challenging and dynamic environments. These skills and qualities ensure mission readiness, the safety of personnel, and the successful completion of critical infrastructure projects under demanding conditions.

What are some common challenges military engineers face while working on active deployment sites?

Military engineers often encounter unique challenges on active deployment sites, such as unpredictable environmental conditions, limited access to supplies, and the need to quickly adapt plans to changing mission requirements. Working under strict security protocols and tight deadlines is common, and collaboration with military personnel from diverse backgrounds is essential for successful project completion. Adaptability, problem-solving skills, and effective communication are crucial in overcoming logistical obstacles and ensuring that infrastructure and support systems are safely and efficiently constructed or maintained.

What is the difference between Military Engineering vs Civil Engineering?

AspectMilitary EngineeringCivil Engineering
Required CredentialsEngineering degree, military clearance, specialized trainingEngineering degree, professional licensure
Work EnvironmentMilitary bases, field operations, combat zonesConstruction sites, urban and rural infrastructure projects
Employer & Industry UsageMilitary organizations, defense contractorsConstruction firms, government agencies, private sector

Military Engineering focuses on designing and constructing military facilities, fortifications, and infrastructure in challenging environments, often requiring security clearances. Civil Engineering involves planning, designing, and maintaining public infrastructure like roads, bridges, and buildings. While both fields require engineering degrees, Military Engineering emphasizes defense-related projects and field operations, whereas Civil Engineering centers on civilian infrastructure development.

Do military engineers get paid well?

Military engineers typically receive competitive salaries that include base pay, allowances, and benefits such as housing and healthcare. Their compensation varies based on rank, experience, and service length, and they often have opportunities for career advancement and specialized training.

How do I become a military engineer?

To become a military engineer, you typically need to meet the military branch's enlistment requirements, obtain a bachelor's degree in engineering or a related field, and complete specialized training or officer candidate programs. Skills in problem-solving, technical knowledge, and proficiency with engineering tools are essential, and security clearances may be required.

What do military engineers do?

Military engineers design, construct, and maintain infrastructure such as bridges, roads, fortifications, and facilities to support military operations. They also analyze terrain, develop engineering solutions, and may work with specialized tools like surveying equipment and construction machinery in challenging environments.

What military engineering jobs are there in the military?

Military engineering jobs include roles such as combat engineers, construction engineers, and explosive ordnance disposal specialists. These positions involve tasks like building infrastructure, demolitions, and providing technical support in various operational environments, often requiring specialized training and security clearances.
More about Military Engineering jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Military Engineering jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Military Engineering jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What are popular job titles related to Military Engineering jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Military Engineering jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Military Engineering jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Military Engineering jobs in Chicago, IL are:

Military Engineering jobs near you
Infographic showing various Military Engineering job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $151,295 per year, or $72.7 per hour.

Structural Engineering Department Director

Terra Engineering Ltd

Chicago, IL • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 10 days ago

Job description

 

This critical role will lead TERRA's Structural Engineering Department and manage the talent, decision-making processes, business development, and client relationships.


Essential Functions:

  • Lead and manage all operational activities of the Structural Engineering Department 
  • Direct, supervise and mentor staff  
  • Collaborate with other department leaders on projects and initiatives
  • Responsible for departmental decision-making with applicable input from owners
  • Marketing and business development through building and maintaining relationships with current and potential clients of TERRA
  • Oversee the department’s client contact and communications  
  • Finalize cost estimates, plans, technical specifications and calculations for many different structure types with an emphasis on bridges and other transportation-related structures 
  • QA/QC the inspection of in-service bridges, retaining walls, and other structures 
  • Steer all aspects of the planning phase of design, including finalization of Bridge Condition Reports and Type, Size and Location (TSL) Plans 
  • Collaborate and coordinate with department staff to determine the best solution for each project 
  • Participation in TERRA’s leadership team to help set strategic direction and initiatives of the company
  • Active involvement in local, state, national and international projects

Qualifications:

  • 15+ years of experience, of which five or more years were in a senior or managerial role 
  • Strong leadership and management skills 
  • Illinois Structural Engineer (SE) license required; additional state SE licenses are preferred
  • Illinois Team Leader Certification for Overseeing and Conducting NBIS Bridge Inspections  
  • Extensive experience with Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) and Illinois Tollway standards  
  • Excellent organizational skills and demonstrated ability to manage multiple projects successfully 
  • Highly effective communication skills 

TERRA Offers: 

  • Competitive salary and compensation package 
  • Flexible work schedule and public transportation reimbursement to and from the office (Chicago-based employees)
  • Generous paid time off and holidays 
  • 401k, profit-sharing, and bonus eligibility
  • Subsidized Health & Welfare benefits (major medical, dental, vision and ancillary benefits)
  • Professional development opportunities 
  • Teams of creative and talented individuals to work with 


The employment policy of TERRA Engineering, Ltd. is to provide equal opportunity to all persons. Our company, therefore, has made a commitment to equal employment opportunity through a positive and continuing affirmative action program. No employee or applicant for employment will be discriminated against because of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, military and/or veteran status, or any other Federal or State legally protected classes.

TERRA Engineering, Ltd.  will recruit, hire, train and promote qualified individuals in all job titles, and ensure that all other personnel actions are administered without regard to race, color, religion, sex, military and/or veteran status, or disability in accordance with Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended, and the Vietnam Era Veterans Readjustment Assistance Act of 1974, which require affirmative action to ensure equal opportunity in all aspects of employment. TERRA Engineering, Ltd.  does not discriminate on the basis of national origin or citizenship status as provided under the Immigration Reform and Control Act of 1986.


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