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Professional Engineer Jobs in Elgin, IL (NOW HIRING)

Engineer - Projects

Chicago, IL · On-site

$100K - $130K/yr

Engineer - Projects Job Summary Support engineering design, project coordination, and execution for ... Fluent in English and Mandarin (Professional Working Proficiency) * Chicago, IL LOCATION TRAVEL

Engineer - Projects

Chicago, IL · On-site

$100K - $130K/yr

Engineer Projects Job Summary Support engineering design, project coordination, and execution for ... Fluent in English and Mandarin (Professional Working Proficiency) * Chicago, IL LOCATION TRAVEL

Electrical Engineer

Palatine, IL · On-site

$80K - $120K/hr

This role offers flexibility to function as a Project Engineer or Managing Engineer under the supervision of a Professional Engineer. Strong focus on client interaction, multidisciplinary ...

Proficient environmental engineering professional responsible for managing and executing site testing and making recommendations for systems design on smaller projects of minimal complexity.

Senior Mechanical Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$107K - $142K/yr

The ideal candidate is a licensed Professional Engineer with comprehensive experience in mechanical system design and documentation across multi-family housing, commercial, and government projects.

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Professional Engineer information

See Elgin, IL salary details

$46K

$95.9K

$134.9K

How much do professional engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for professional engineer in Elgin, IL is $95,948.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $81,600.00 and $108,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Professional Engineers?

Professional Engineers (PEs) are licensed engineers who have met the education, experience, and exam requirements established by their state or country. They are legally authorized to sign off on engineering projects, offer their services to the public, and take responsibility for the safety and integrity of engineering work. Becoming a PE typically involves earning an accredited engineering degree, passing the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam, gaining relevant work experience, and passing the Professional Engineering (PE) exam. The PE license signifies a high standard of competence and ethics in the engineering profession.

What is the difference between Professional Engineer vs Mechanical Engineer?

AspectProfessional EngineerMechanical Engineer
CredentialsRequires PE license, degree, work experience, examRequires degree, possibly fundamentals exam, but not license
Work EnvironmentDesign, review, sign off on projects, often in consulting or engineering firmsDesign, analysis, manufacturing, and testing in various industries
Industry UsageLicensed in engineering projects, legal responsibilityCommonly employed in manufacturing, automotive, aerospace, and more

The main difference between a Professional Engineer and a Mechanical Engineer is that the PE is licensed and authorized to sign off on engineering projects, ensuring legal and safety standards are met. Mechanical Engineers typically hold the necessary education and experience but do not have licensing requirements unless they pursue PE licensure. Both roles work closely in engineering fields, but the PE designation signifies a higher level of responsibility and legal accountability.

Can you make $250,000 as an engineer?

Professional engineers can earn $250,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced certifications, or leadership roles in high-demand industries such as aerospace, petroleum, or software engineering. Salaries vary based on location, specialization, and employer, with senior-level positions and specialized skills commanding higher compensation.

What Do Professional Engineers Do?

A professional engineer uses mathematics and science to create safe and efficient buildings, machines, and applications. Engineers typically specialize in a particular field, such as aerospace, mechanical, or structural engineering. Your job duties vary depending on your area of expertise and employer but may include creating plans, designing machinery, or building skyscrapers. This career often involves a combination of office and field work. Frequent travel is an additional job requirement for many professional engineering jobs. Long hours and overtime work are also expected to meet deadlines.

What are some common challenges Professional Engineers face when managing multiple projects simultaneously?

Professional Engineers often juggle several projects at once, which can present challenges in prioritizing tasks, coordinating with diverse teams, and ensuring compliance with regulatory standards. Effective time management and clear communication are essential to handle shifting deadlines and resource allocation. Collaborating closely with project managers, clients, and other engineers helps maintain project momentum and quality, while regular progress reviews ensure that no critical detail is overlooked.

What engineering jobs pay $500,000?

High-level engineering roles such as petroleum engineers, aerospace engineers, and engineering managers can earn $500,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced certifications, and leadership responsibilities. These positions often involve working in specialized industries, managing large projects, or overseeing teams in high-demand sectors like oil and gas, aerospace, or technology companies.

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

To thrive as a Professional Engineer, you need a solid grasp of engineering principles, problem-solving skills, and a degree in engineering, typically complemented by a Professional Engineer (PE) license. Familiarity with industry-standard software such as AutoCAD, MATLAB, or project management tools, along with ongoing continuing education, is often required. Strong communication, teamwork, and project management abilities help engineers deliver effective solutions and collaborate with diverse stakeholders. These skills and qualifications ensure engineers can design safe, efficient systems and maintain high professional standards in complex technical environments.

What can you do as a professional engineer?

A professional engineer designs, develops, and evaluates systems, structures, or processes within their engineering discipline. They often hold a license that allows them to approve projects, sign off on plans, and ensure compliance with safety and regulatory standards. Professional engineers work in various industries such as construction, manufacturing, and technology, using technical skills and tools like CAD software and engineering principles.

What engineers make $200,000 a year?

Senior engineers in fields such as petroleum, aerospace, software, and electrical engineering often earn $200,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced certifications, or leadership roles. High-paying engineering positions typically require specialized skills, advanced degrees, and sometimes management responsibilities or working in high-demand industries.
What are the most commonly searched types of Engineer jobs in Elgin, IL? The most popular types of Engineer jobs in Elgin, IL are:
What job categories do people searching Professional Engineer jobs in Elgin, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Professional Engineer jobs in Elgin, IL are:
What cities near Elgin, IL are hiring for Professional Engineer jobs? Cities near Elgin, IL with the most Professional Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Professional Engineer job openings in Elgin, IL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 91% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $95,948 per year, or $46.1 per hour.
Professional Licensed Engineer

Professional Licensed Engineer

HBK Engineering, LLC

Oak Brook, IL

$83K - $111K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 5 days ago


Job description

About Us

HBK Engineering, LLC is a fully licensed, professional engineering design firm headquartered in Chicago, IL with a staff approaching 700 individuals. HBK provides civil, environmental, structural, electrical, subsurface utility, construction support services and permitting facilitation. Since our founding in 1998, we have earned a reputation for delivering outstanding, accurate services in extremely time-sensitive, multilayered environments. That "industry-recognized" performance has propelled our expansion and the ability to provide engineering services in all 50 states. With 25 offices nationwide, including concentrations in the Midwest and on the Coasts, HBK brings together a dedicated team whose main focus is the design and protection of utilities and utility networks. We have successfully performed engineering work for a complete spectrum of utility infrastructure projects providing solutions and construction support from Coast to Coast in areas ranging from complex urban city centers, to rural greenfields, to limited access rights-of-way. In July 2020, HBK Engineering was acquired by Quanta Services. Quanta Services provides infrastructure services for electric power, pipeline, and communications industries and employees over 50,000 people. Quanta's focus on the utility industry and HBK's focus on constructability in our designs has made our integration into the Quanta family of companies seamless.

About this Role

A Professional Licensed Engineer at HBK Engineering is a position that combines day-to-day management and development of direct report team members with delivery and execution of project work. This role involves directing and coordinating technical activities related to project execution and delivery, requiring a thorough understanding of the technical aspects of HBK's work. The position may specialize in a sub-field within their area of expertise to align with long-term industry trends while maintaining technical competency to train and monitor team members in their duties.This position can be seated in one of the following office locations: Chicago, Oak Brook, or Geneva, IL, Spring TX and Denver CO

What You'll Do
  • Manage and develop direct report team members through day-to-day oversight and professional development
  • Direct and coordinate technical activities related to project execution and delivery
  • Design engineering systems in compliance with specifications, codes, and client requirements for overhead and subsurface utility projects
  • Apply broad knowledge of principles and practices in a specific practice area
  • Independently evaluate, select, and adapt standard techniques, procedures, and criteria
  • Acquire general knowledge of principles and practices of related fields and function on multidisciplinary teams
  • Work on multiple projects of moderate size or portions of major projects
  • Review designs of moderate complexity for conformity and quality assurance (if fully licensed)
  • Perform peer reviews of designs reviewed and approved by a licensed engineer prior to transmittal
  • Develop new techniques and/or improved processes, materials, or products
  • Train and mentor team members within their teams
  • Complete timesheets in a timely and accurate manner
  • Maintain regular one-on-one meetings with all direct reports on weekly or bi-weekly basis
  • Advise in development of Project Proposals and RFP responses
  • Anticipate technical and constructability project challenges and communicate downstream project risk
  • Address concerns that may affect safety, budget, deadlines, or clients adversely
  • Establish positive relations within project teams and with supporting groups within the company
  • Take leadership roles in company-sponsored events and HBK Impact programs
  • Drive continuous improvement and innovation across the organization
  • Represent the organization in communications and conferences pertaining to broad aspects of engineering assignments
What You'll Bring
  • A degree in Civil Engineering is preferred; candidates must have proven experience in utility or road infrastructure projects.
  • Typically 4+ years of engineering experience
  • Extensive knowledge in standard engineering techniques and procedures
  • Advanced oral and written communication skills
  • Understanding of client standards, guidelines, systems, and equipment
  • Understanding of national standards and guidelines
  • Understanding of safe work practices in both office and field environments
  • Strong computer skills (Microsoft Office Suite)
  • Strong proficiency in Engineering Design Programs (AutoCAD, MicroStation, etc.)
  • Ability to manage variety of tasks in highly organized manner within collaborative team environment
  • Experience leading discipline design for projects and delegating tasks to team members
  • Ability to perform quality reviews of project work and engineering documents (if fully licensed)
  • Attention to detail, team building, collaboration, organization and problem-solving skills
  • Understanding of individual project scopes and deliverable commitments
  • Understanding of project areas of risk
  • Understanding of vendor/subcontractor processes and contracts
  • Understanding of Standard Hourly Rates, Unit Rate, Fixed Fee and Labor Rate Multipliers
  • Understanding of billable and unbillable charge status
  • Staff management and team oversight experience
  • Training and mentoring experience with entry- and mid-level staff
  • Understanding of remote communication software
  • Ability to quickly come up to speed on in-process projects and hit the ground running
  • Persistence to see projects through to completion
  • Adaptability to change in a dynamic team environment
  • Ability to lift up to 10 pounds and work for prolonged periods at desk and computer.
What You'll Get
  • Management role with direct report responsibilities and team development opportunities
  • Professional licensure recognition and advancement within the Engineering Track
  • Opportunity to specialize in sub-fields aligned with long-term industry trends
  • Leadership opportunities in company events and organizational initiatives
  • Quality review authority for engineering designs (when fully licensed)
  • Conference and communication opportunities representing the organization
  • Professional development through goal-setting with reporting manager
  • Opportunity to drive continuous improvement and innovation across the organization
  • Collaborative work environment with multidisciplinary teams
  • Clear career progression pathway within senior engineering management
  • Comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, vision, disability and employer paid life insurance. In addition, all full-time roles are also eligible for 401(k) retirement plan with company match, paid time off and holidays. Tuition reimbursement and other role specific company paid professional development opportunities are also available.
  • Advanced professional engineering career opportunities.
Compensation RangeThe anticipated compensation for this position is USD $90,000.00/Yr. - depending on experience and qualifications.Equal Opportunity Employer

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment and will not be discriminated against on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin or ancestry, sex (including gender, pregnancy, sexual orientation, and/or gender identity), age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, and/or any other basis protected by applicable federal, state or local law.We are an Equal Opportunity Employer, including disability and protected veteran status. We prohibit all types of discrimination and are committed to providing access and equal opportunity for individuals with disabilities. For additional information or if reasonable accommodation is needed to participate in the job application, interview, or hiring processes or to perform the essential functions of a position, please contact us the Company's Human Resources department.

Employment Type: OTHER