Optical Engineer Intern Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

The Village of Palatine Department of Public Works Engineering Division is seeking a motivated and detail-oriented professional to join our team as a...

Civil Engineer I

This position supports the planning, design, bidding, construction, inspection and maintenance of a variety of municipal infrastructure projects, including sanitary and storm sewers, water mains, streets and roadways, sidewalks, curbs, parking lots, street lighting and fiber optic telecommunications systems. The engineer provides technical assistance across all Public Works divisions and collaborates with management and other engineering staff to plan, evaluate and implement projects and programs. Under the direction of the Village Engineer, this position completes a variety of tasks to implement the Village's Capital Improvement Program and support the development of the annual budget.

Job Description:
Essential job functions include, but are not limited to:

• Prepare plans, specifications and bid documents for municipal infrastructure projects.
• Perform construction oversight and administration, including conducting preconstruction meetings, processing pay estimates and change orders, and maintaining project communication with stakeholders.
• Ensure contractor compliance with project plans and specifications; identify and address field variances.
• Respond to public inquiries and complaints during construction, assisting with problem-solving and customer satisfaction.
• Maintain thorough and accurate project documentation.
• Review preliminary and design surveys to verify project control.
• Conduct site investigations, topographic surveys, and traffic studies.
• Manage resident cost-sharing programs, including application review, interdepartmental coordination, site inspections, and reimbursement approvals.
• Assist in preparing technical reports, grant applications, and budgetary analyses for the Capital Improvement Program.
• Coordinate and manage permits with regulatory agencies.
• Assist with snow and ice control operations as needed.

Qualifications:

• Understanding of civil engineering principles, construction methods, applicable codes, and regulatory standards.
• Familiarity with surveying and engineering drafting practices.
• Proficiency in AutoCAD, GIS, Microsoft Office Suite, and PAVER (or similar pavement management software). Ability to learn other business applications as required.
• Effective communication skills, both verbal and written, with a strong customer service orientation.
• Ability to analyze problems, identify solutions, and work both independently and collaboratively.
• Must be capable of performing regular physical activity, including lifting or moving objects weighing 20 to 50 pounds, and working in varying environmental conditions.
• Must be eligible for employment in the U.S. and successfully pass a pre-employment background check, medical exam, and drug screening (including cannabis).

Education, Experience and Licenses:

• Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering or a closely related field from an accredited institution is required.
• Up to three years of experience in the design, construction, and maintenance of public works or civil engineering projects.
• Fall 2026 and Spring 2027 graduates looking to begin work by mid-2027 are encouraged to apply for this position.
• Successful completion of the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam and registration as an Engineer Intern (EI) in Illinois, or have the ability to obtain within six months of hire.
• Ability to achieve Professional Engineer (PE) licensure in Illinois within four years is required.
• Possess a valid Illinois Class A or B commercial driver's license (CDL) with air brake endorsement, or have the ability to obtain a commercial learner's permit within two months of hire and CDL within six months of hire.

Salary: Hiring range: $87,300 to $97,000 annually, depending on qualifications. Full range: $87,300 to $116,780 annually.

Hours: General work hours are Monday through Friday, 7:30 AM to 4:30 PM. Additional hours will be required as needed for construction oversight of projects, public meetings, and other events.

Employment Duration: Full-time, exempt position.

Benefits: The Village of Palatine offers an excellent benefits package including medical, dental, vision and life insurance; participation in the Illinois Municipal Retirement Fund; 457 retirement plans; nine paid holidays; paid vacation, sick, and personal leave; and professional development opportunities.

To Apply: Candidates must complete the full application to be considered for this position. Cover letters and resumes must also be attached, but will not be accepted in lieu of applications. Mailed, emailed, and hand delivered resumes will not be accepted.