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Project Engineer Trainee Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

SwiftX Inc.

Management Trainee

Schiller Park, IL

$25/hr

Participate in process improvement and operational optimization projects * Analyze operational ... Supply Chain, Logistics, Industrial Engineering, Business, Economics, Operations Management, or ...

SwiftX Inc.

Management Trainee

Schiller Park, IL · On-site

$25/hr

Participate in process improvement and operational optimization projects * Analyze operational ... Supply Chain, Logistics, Industrial Engineering, Business, Economics, Operations Management, or ...

NCW

Electrical Trainee

Des Plaines, IL · On-site

$26 - $44/hr

Support project completion by assisting with a variety of installation, maintenance, and ... engineering industries. Equal Opportunity Employer We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and are ...

JX Truck Center

Leadership Trainee

Elmhurst, IL · On-site

$27/hr

Perform additional duties/projects as needed. The above list reflects the general details necessary ... Bachelor or Associate's degree preferred in business, marketing, transportation, engineering, or a ...

NCW

Electrical Trainee

Des Plaines, IL

$26 - $44/hr

Support project completion by assisting with a variety of installation, maintenance, and ... engineering industries. Equal Opportunity Employer We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and are ...

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All JobsProject Engineer JobsProject Engineer Trainee JobsProject Engineer Trainee Jobs in Illinois

Project Engineer Trainee information

See Illinois salary details

$43.6K

$87.8K

$131.8K

How much do project engineer trainee jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average yearly pay for project engineer trainee in Illinois is $87,836.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $71,700.00 and $100,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a project engineer trainee do?

A Project Engineer Trainee assists senior engineers and project managers in planning, coordinating, and executing engineering projects. Their responsibilities often include preparing technical documents, performing site inspections, supporting project scheduling, and ensuring compliance with safety and quality standards. This entry-level role provides hands-on experience and training in project management, engineering principles, and teamwork within various industries such as construction, manufacturing, and infrastructure. The position is designed to help trainees develop practical skills and knowledge required for advancement to more senior engineering roles.

What are the typical day-to-day responsibilities of a project engineer trainee?

As a Project Engineer Trainee, your daily tasks often include assisting with project planning, coordinating with contractors or vendors, preparing documentation, and tracking project progress against timelines. You'll likely attend team meetings, help resolve technical issues, and support senior engineers with data collection and report generation. These activities provide hands-on experience with the project lifecycle while ensuring that deliverables stay on schedule and meet quality standards. Your contributions help the team identify bottlenecks early and maintain effective communication among stakeholders.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a project engineer trainee?

To thrive as a Project Engineer Trainee, you need a foundational understanding of engineering principles, a relevant degree (such as in civil, mechanical, or electrical engineering), and strong analytical skills. Familiarity with project management software (like MS Project or Primavera), CAD tools, and basic knowledge of industry standards is often required. Effective communication, teamwork, and a willingness to learn are vital soft skills for success in this entry-level role. These skills and qualities are crucial for supporting project delivery, ensuring technical accuracy, and building a strong foundation for a future engineering career.

What is the difference between Project Engineer Trainee vs Project Engineer?

AspectProject Engineer TraineeProject Engineer
QualificationsTypically pursuing or recently completed a relevant degree; may have certifications like PMP or engineering licensesCompleted degree; often holds professional engineering license or certification
Work EnvironmentTraining programs, internships, or entry-level roles in construction or engineering projectsFull-time roles managing project phases, coordinating teams, and overseeing execution
ResponsibilitiesAssisting senior engineers, learning project processes, supporting documentationPlanning, executing, and monitoring projects, ensuring deadlines and budgets are met

The main difference is that a Project Engineer Trainee is an entry-level position focused on learning and supporting project tasks, while a Project Engineer is a fully responsible professional managing project execution independently.

Can you become a project engineer trainee with no experience?

Yes, many companies offer project engineer trainee positions to candidates with little or no experience, focusing on training and skill development. These roles often require a relevant degree in engineering and may include on-the-job training, certifications, or mentorship to build necessary skills. Having a strong foundation in technical knowledge and a willingness to learn can help you qualify for such trainee roles.

What are the most commonly searched types of Project Engineer jobs in Illinois?

The most popular types of Project Engineer jobs in Illinois are:

What cities in Illinois are hiring for Project Engineer Trainee jobs?

Cities in Illinois with the most Project Engineer Trainee job openings:

Project Engineer Trainee jobs near you
Infographic showing various Project Engineer Trainee job openings in Illinois as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $87,836 per year, or $42.2 per hour.

Trainee Continuous Improvement/Quality Engineer

Aspen Guard LLC

Chicago, IL • On-site

$81K - $108K/yr

Temporary

Re-posted 22 days ago

Job description

Company Overview:

Folding Guard is a reputable leader in manufacturing security and safety products. With a strong commitment to innovation and excellence, we serve industries ranging from automotive and logistics to retail and aerospace. We are seeking a dynamic Trainee with an engineering background and a focus on Continuous Improvement or Quality Engineering with expertise in Lean Manufacturing Concepts to join our team.

Position Overview:

As a Trainee in Continuous Improvement/Quality Engineer, you will have the opportunity to contribute to our ongoing efforts to enhance operational efficiency, product quality, and customer satisfaction. This role is designed for a recent engineering graduate who possesses a keen interest in implementing lean methodologies and continuous improvement principles to drive tangible results.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams to identify process improvement opportunities across various departments.
  • Participate in projects aimed at reducing waste, increasing productivity, and optimizing processes using lean manufacturing techniques.
  • Assist in analyzing existing processes, identifying bottlenecks, and proposing actionable solutions.
  • Support the implementation and monitoring of key performance indicators (KPIs) to measure process effectiveness and efficiency.
  • Engage in root cause analysis to address quality issues and implement corrective and preventive actions (CAPAs).
  • Contribute to the development and delivery of training programs to promote a culture of continuous improvement throughout the organization.
  • Actively participate in workshops, training sessions, and knowledge-sharing initiatives to develop expertise in lean manufacturing concepts.

Qualifications:

  • Bachelor’s degree in engineering, with a focus on Continuous Improvement, Quality Engineering, or related field.
  • Strong theoretical understanding of lean manufacturing principles and concepts.
  • Familiarity with tools such as Value Stream Mapping, 5S, Kaizen, Six Sigma, etc.
  • Excellent analytical skills and the ability to identify process inefficiencies.
  • Effective communication skills to collaborate with diverse teams.
  • Detail-oriented and organized, with the ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously.
  • High proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and data analysis software.

Benefits:

  • Comprehensive training and mentorship to develop expertise in continuous improvement methodologies.
  • Exposure to real-world projects that contribute to the organization's growth and success.
  • Opportunity to work alongside experienced professionals and gain insights into the manufacturing industry.
  • Competitive compensation and potential for career advancement within the organization.

Application Process:

If you are a recent engineering graduate with a passion for continuous improvement and lean manufacturing concepts, we encourage you to apply. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.

At Folding Guard, we value diversity and are an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, or protected veteran status and will not be discriminated against on the basis of disability.

Join us in our mission to enhance manufacturing processes and create innovative solutions. Apply today!