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New Grad Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

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New Grad Engineer information

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$11.4K

$75.2K

$130K

How much do new grad engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for new grad engineer in Chicago, IL is $75,179.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $46,600.00 and $86,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a new grad engineer?

A New Grad Engineer is an individual who has recently graduated from a university or college with an engineering degree and is starting their professional career. These engineers are typically in entry-level positions, where they apply the knowledge and skills acquired during their studies to real-world engineering problems. New Grad Engineers often participate in training programs, work under the guidance of more experienced engineers, and gradually take on more responsibility as they gain experience. Their roles can vary widely depending on the industry and the specific company they join.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a new grad engineer?

To thrive as a New Grad Engineer, you generally need a solid foundation in engineering principles, problem-solving abilities, and a relevant bachelor's degree. Familiarity with industry-standard software, such as CAD tools or programming languages, and internships or relevant project experience are highly valued. Strong communication, teamwork, and a willingness to learn help new engineers adapt quickly and collaborate effectively. These skills enable new engineers to contribute meaningfully to projects, integrate into teams, and grow within fast-paced technical environments.

What types of projects are new grad engineers typically assigned during their first year?

As a new grad engineer, you can expect to start with smaller, well-defined tasks that allow you to become familiar with the company's tools, processes, and codebase (if applicable). These projects are often part of a larger team effort and are designed to help you build confidence while contributing meaningfully. Over time, you'll likely be given more complex assignments and may have the opportunity to take ownership of specific features or problem areas. Regular collaboration with senior engineers and cross-functional teams is common, providing valuable learning and mentorship opportunities as you develop your skills.

What is the difference between New Grad Engineer vs Entry Level Engineer?

AspectNew Grad EngineerEntry Level Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in engineering or related fieldBachelor's degree in engineering or related field
Work EnvironmentInternship or first full-time role, often in training programsFull-time position, performing basic engineering tasks
Employer & Industry UsageCommonly used for recent graduates entering engineering rolesUsed for professionals with minimal work experience in engineering

Both roles typically require a bachelor's degree in engineering. A New Grad Engineer often refers to someone just starting their career, possibly in a structured training program, while an Entry Level Engineer is a full-time employee performing foundational engineering tasks. The terms are frequently used interchangeably, but 'New Grad Engineer' emphasizes recent graduation, whereas 'Entry Level Engineer' highlights minimal experience.

Are new graduate engineers struggling to find jobs?

New graduate engineers often face competitive job markets, but opportunities are available for those with strong technical skills, relevant internships, and certifications. Success depends on networking, interview preparation, and staying updated with industry tools and trends.

How to get a job as a new graduate engineer?

To secure a job as a new graduate engineer, candidates should focus on building a strong technical foundation through relevant coursework and internships, develop proficiency in engineering tools and software, and prepare a professional resume highlighting project experience. Networking with industry professionals and applying to entry-level positions through company career portals or job boards are also essential steps.

What jobs do new graduate engineers go into?

New graduate engineers typically start in entry-level roles such as design engineer, manufacturing engineer, quality engineer, or systems engineer. These positions often require knowledge of engineering principles, technical skills, and sometimes certifications or internships to qualify for the roles.

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for New Grad Engineer jobs?

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

Infographic showing various New Grad Engineer job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 85% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $74,779 per year, or $36 per hour.

Assistant Electrical Engineer - Water (Chicago)

Burns & McDonnell

Chicago, IL • On-site

$85K - $130K/yr

Full-time

Retirement

Re-posted 14 hours ago


Burns & McDonnell rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 51 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

6th of 80 rated construction


Job description

Description
The Assistant Electrical Engineer will assist project teams to create world class designs for new projects, alterations and redevelopments on a variety of projects focused on critical water/wastewater infrastructure while also including power, process, corporate, healthcare, airports, institutional, industrial, manufacturing, government and military facilities. The Assistant Electrical Engineer will work with the project team throughout the design and construction process, adapting electrical plans according to budget constraints, design factors or client needs.
  • Assists in the electrical design of projects from the conceptual phase through design completion.
  • Assists with modifying and reviewing production drawings for a variety of projects including, but not limited to: power plants, process facilities, industrial facilities, healthcare facilities, airports, educational institutions, commercial, and governmental and military facilities.
  • Assists in designing electrical components for project needs and requirements that are set forth by the project managers.
  • Applies basic knowledge of commonly used electrical concepts, practices, codes, and procedures within the electrical engineering services industry.
  • Assists with research and complies project related data as required by the project managers.
  • Assists with correcting and updating drawings provided by senior engineers to verify corrections are made within multiple CAD related software.
  • Assists with client presentations, shop drawing review, and contract administration for the design of power, process, industrial, healthcare, airports, educational institutions, commercial, and governmental and military facilities.
  • Assists in performing field inspections, measurements or calculations for public and private clients.
  • Performs other duties as assigned.
  • Complies with all policies and standards.

Qualifications
  • Bachelor Degree in Electrical Engineering or related degree from an ABET accredited program required, or,
  • Bachelor Degree in Electrical or related Engineering Technology from an ABET accredited program and successful completion of Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam required.
  • Prior internship and/or related consulting experience preferred.
  • Basic knowledge in standard electrical engineering techniques, principles and procedures.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
  • Ability to work methodically and analytically in a quantitative problem-solving environment and demonstrated critical thinking skills.
  • Proficient computer skills (e.g. Microsoft Office Suite).
  • Basic computer skills include electrical analysis programs (e.g., RISA), AutoCAD, BIM (e.g., Revit and Tekla), programs.
  • Strong attention to detail, facilitation, team building, collaboration, organization and problem solving skills.
  • Demonstrated leadership skills.
  • Engineers in Training-EIT Certification preferred.
  • Minimum of a 3.0 GPA strongly preferred.
  • Involvement on campus or in the community preferred.
  • Candidates must be legally authorized to work permanently (i.e., without time limitations, without restrictions or without need for work sponsorship) in the country where this position is located.

Compensation
$85,000.00-130,000.00 Yearly
The expected compensation range for this position is displayed in compliance with all local/state regulations. The expected compensation range for this position is based on a number of factors, including but not limited to: individual education, qualifications, prior work experience and work location. The total annual compensation package will consist of a base salary and eligibility to participate in our discretionary year-end incentive bonus program.
Benefits
Our extensive benefits package takes care of you so that you can focus on doing great work. From insurance and disability to time off and wellness programs, we provide the tools to meet your needs. As part of being 100% employee-owned, eligible employees participate in our Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) in addition to our 401(k) retirement program. For more information, please visit the Benefits & Wellness page.
This job posting will remain open a minimum of 72 hours and on an ongoing basis until filled.
EEO/Disabled/Veterans
Job Electrical Engineering
Primary Location US-IL-Chicago
Schedule: Full-time
Travel: Yes, 25 % of the Time
Req ID: 263039
Job Hire Type New Grad #LI-AM #WTR *IND-DNP*

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About Burns & McDonnell

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Burns & McDonnell assists clients of all sizes and industries by providing extensive physical services ranging from assessments, integrated security solutions, and large security architecture designs. Services we typically provide include security and safety system design, threat, risk, and vulnerability assessments, security surveys, security master planning, compliance to federal security programs, independent validation and verification of integrated security system operations, management of installation and maintenance, and staff augmentation to develop and implement facility management and protection processes.

Industry

Civil engineering construction

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Kansas City, MO, US

Year founded

1898

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