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Outdoor Engineering Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Nexus Engineering Group

Substation Engineer

Oak Brook, IL · On-site

$75K - $85K/yr

Nexus Engineering Group is employee-owned, full-service, and built by the people who do the work ... Site visits that may involve exposure to outdoor weather, energized electrical equipment, noise ...

Nexus Engineering Group

Substation Engineer

Oak Brook, IL · On-site +1

$75K - $85K/yr

Nexus Engineering Group is employee-owned, full-service, and built by the people who do the work ... Site visits that may involve exposure to outdoor weather, energized electrical equipment, noise ...

Nexus Engineering Group

Substation Engineer

Oak Brook, IL · On-site +1

$75K - $85K/yr

Nexus Engineering Group is employee-owned, full-service, and built by the people who do the work ... Site visits that may involve exposure to outdoor weather, energized electrical equipment, noise ...

Nexus Engineering Group

Substation Engineer

Oak Brook, IL · On-site

$75 - $85/hr

Nexus Engineering Group is employee-owned, full-service, and built by the people who do the work ... Site visits that may involve exposure to outdoor weather, energized electrical equipment, noise ...

Nexus Engineering Group

SCADA Engineer

Oak Brook, IL · On-site +1

$85K - $120K/yr

Nexus Engineering Group is employee-owned, full-service, and built by the people who do the work ... Site visits that may involve exposure to outdoor weather, energized electrical equipment, noise ...

Nexus Engineering Group

SCADA Engineer

Oak Brook, IL · On-site

$85K - $120K/yr

Nexus Engineering Group is employee-owned, full-service, and built by the people who do the work ... Site visits that may involve exposure to outdoor weather, energized electrical equipment, noise ...

Nexus Engineering Group

SCADA Engineer

Oak Brook, IL · On-site +1

$85K - $120K/yr

Nexus Engineering Group is employee-owned, full-service, and built by the people who do the work ... Site visits that may involve exposure to outdoor weather, energized electrical equipment, noise ...

Nexus Engineering Group

SCADA Engineer

Oak Brook, IL · On-site

$85 - $120/hr

Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Electrical Engineering Technology, or related field ... Site visits that may involve exposure to outdoor weather, energized electrical equipment, noise ...

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All JobsOutdoor Engineering JobsOutdoor Engineering Jobs in Illinois

Outdoor Engineering information

See Illinois salary details

$12

$30

$55

How much do outdoor engineering jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for outdoor engineering in Illinois is $30.57, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.57 and $36.83 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is outdoor engineering?

Outdoor engineering is a field of engineering that focuses on designing, developing, and maintaining infrastructure and systems that function in outdoor environments. This can include projects such as roads, bridges, parks, outdoor recreational facilities, and utility networks. Outdoor engineers consider factors like weather, terrain, environmental impact, and public safety in their work. They often collaborate with other engineers, architects, and environmental specialists to create sustainable and efficient solutions.

What are outdoor engineering jobs?

Outdoor engineering jobs are positions requiring an engineer to work outside at a job site or in the field. These positions exist in several engineering specialties. An engineer who works on construction projects spends time at sites, as do engineers involved in civil engineering projects including roads, bridges, and other infrastructure designs. Electrical, environmental, and petroleum engineers likewise spend time in an outdoor environment when assessing work sites, auditing operations, ensuring proper use of equipment, and inspecting project results. The duties and responsibilities of most engineers who work outside include providing project guidance and ensuring quality standards and compliance with regulations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an outdoor engineer?

To thrive as an Outdoor Engineer, you need a solid background in civil or environmental engineering, project management, and site analysis, usually supported by a relevant engineering degree and licensure (such as a PE). Familiarity with CAD software, GIS systems, and surveying equipment is typically required for planning and executing projects. Strong problem-solving skills, teamwork, and effective communication help Outdoor Engineers collaborate with diverse stakeholders and manage field challenges. These capabilities are essential for ensuring the safety, sustainability, and successful completion of outdoor engineering projects.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in outdoor engineering and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in Outdoor Engineering often encounter challenges such as adapting designs to unpredictable weather conditions, meeting strict environmental regulations, and coordinating with multidisciplinary teams on-site. Addressing these requires strong problem-solving skills, effective communication with stakeholders, and staying up to date with the latest sustainable engineering practices. Additionally, flexibility and adaptability are key, as project requirements and site conditions can change rapidly during the course of a project.

What is the difference between Outdoor Engineering vs Civil Engineering?

AspectOutdoor EngineeringCivil Engineering
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in outdoor or environmental engineering, certifications in environmental safetyRequires a degree in civil engineering, PE licensure often preferred
Work EnvironmentOutdoor sites, construction areas, environmental settingsConstruction sites, urban and infrastructure projects, offices
Industry UsageEnvironmental projects, outdoor infrastructure, parks, recreation facilitiesBuildings, roads, bridges, water systems

Outdoor Engineering focuses on outdoor and environmental projects, emphasizing sustainability and outdoor site development. Civil Engineering covers a broader range of infrastructure projects, including urban development and transportation. While both roles require engineering credentials, Outdoor Engineering is more specialized in outdoor environments, whereas Civil Engineering has a wider scope in infrastructure development.

More about Outdoor Engineering jobs

What are popular job titles related to Outdoor Engineering jobs in Illinois?

For Outdoor Engineering jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Outdoor Engineering jobs in Illinois look for?

The top searched job categories for Outdoor Engineering jobs in Illinois are:

Outdoor Engineering jobs near you
Infographic showing various Outdoor Engineering job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, 3% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 85% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $63,591 per year, or $30.6 per hour.

Outdoor Program Specialist

Girl Scouts of Greater Chicago and Northwest Indiana

Vernon Hills, IL • On-site

$24.36/hr

Full-time

Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 14 days ago

Job description

Girl Scouts of Greater Chicago and Northwest Indiana, (GSCNWI) is an organization that focuses on helping girls build courage, confidence, and character. We pride ourselves on collaboration, communication, and teamwork. If you are looking for an organization with a mission that impacts the hearts and minds of girls in a meaningful way, then look no further. We're committed to being an equitable, trauma-informed, community-based organization serving the needs and interests of girls and their families in the 245 communities we cover. We are the Girl Scouts of Greater Chicago and Northwest Indiana.
Looking to work with a mission driven organization? Looking for a role that challenges you? Want your work to add value? Then the Girl Scouts of Greater Chicago and Northwest Indiana is the organization for you. The Outdoor Program Specialist role is a position that moves our mission forward and helps change lives.
Position Overview:
Reporting to the Senior Outdoor Program Manager, the Outdoor Program Specialist will facilitate programs for girls and volunteers and will assist with various projects that will benefit the outdoor program experience. They will serve as the Assistant Camp Director for summer overnight camp and be responsible for overseeing weekend troop camping reservations during non-summer camp months.
From September to May, this position is full-time, non-exempt with total hours for on-site and office work not to exceed 37.5 hours per week. Candidates can generally expect to work Wednesday-Sunday, with office hours on weekdays and overnight programming on weekends. This position will require travel to each of the council owned camp properties and frequent overnights on site.
From late May to mid-August, this position will be full-time, exempt and is expected to live on-site at overnight camp, Camp Juniper Knoll in East Troy, WI, and will typically work Sunday-Friday. Room and board are provided while summer camp is in session.
Compensation: $24.36/hour
Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Communicate with troop leaders, volunteers, and chaperones regarding program confirmation, schedules, and expectations
  • Develop curriculum for use in outdoor programs that is fun, safe, and promotes the Girl Scout experience
  • Work directly with children ages 5-17 in facilitation of outdoor programming
  • Participate fully in various projects which will promote the outdoor program experience
  • Participate enthusiastically in all aspects of camp life and act as a role model
  • Assist with management and care of program spaces and supplies including equipment maintenance, manage supply inventory, make purchases as needed, and alert the outdoor program manager of any safety or maintenance concerns
  • Be able to move items around in the program areas, such as firewood, canoes, archery and sports equipment. Ability to push, pull, lift, and carry items up to 25 pounds (e.g. firewood, canoes, archery/sports equipment
  • Possess strength and stamina to remain alert, friendly, courteous, and patient for the duration of the staff member's time on the job
  • Other duties as assigned

Experience, Skills, and Qualifications:
  • Must be 21+ years old and posses a high school diploma or GED; a bachelor's degree with concentration in an outdoor education field or equivalent experience is preferred
  • Knowledge of the outdoors and 3+ years' experience working with children in a camp setting or equivalent
  • 2+ years' experience working as a lifeguard preferred
  • Must be able to successfully problem-solve
  • Excellent time management skills
  • Reliable transportation and willingness to travel to all camp locations

Additional Requirements:
  • Must be certified in First Aid, CPR, and obtain their Mandated Reporter training certificate. Training is provided by Girl Scouts GCNWI.
  • Possess (or be willing to obtain) additional certifications in lifeguarding (including waterfront skills), lifeguard instructor, small craft, and archery are strongly preferred. Training may be provided by Girl Scouts GCNWI.
  • Membership with Girl Scouts of the USA, or willingness to become a member with the Girl Scouts of the USA.

Perks and Benefits:
  • 403(b) retirement plan
  • Time off - vacation, sick, personal, and holiday paid time off is available for employees to take care of themselves and show our appreciation.
  • A casual work environment - with a casual dress code and the option to work hybrid, if applicable.

Work Environment:
Candidates should be willing to work in an indoor and outdoor camp setting, which includes working irregular hours with limited or simple equipment, rustic facilities, wildlife and insects; limited technology while at camp, and exposure to sun, rain, and other weather conditions.

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