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Project Engineer Trainee Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

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 ...

JX Enterprises, Inc

Leadership Trainee

Bolingbrook, 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 ...

JX Enterprises, Inc.

Leadership Trainee

Bolingbrook, 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 ...

JX Truck Center

Leadership Trainee

Bolingbrook, IL

$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 ...

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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 Jul 30, 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 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.

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

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 are some typical day-to-day responsibilities for a Project Engineer Trainee, and how do they contribute to project success?

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 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.

SkillBridge, Data Center Critical Facilities Engineer - Trainee

Equinix, Inc.

Chicago, IL • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 17 days ago

Equinix rating

9.1

Company rating: 9.1 out of 10

Based on 9 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

5th of 250 rated facilities management

Job description

Who are we?
Equinix is the world's digital infrastructure company®, shortening the path to connectivity to enable the innovations that enrich our work, life and planet.
A place where bold ideas are welcomed, human connection is valued, and everyone has the opportunity to shape their future.
A career at Equinix means being at the center of shaping what comes next and amplifying customer value through innovation and impact. You'll work across teams, influence key decisions, and help shape the path forward. You'll find belonging, purpose, and a team that welcomes you-because when you feel valued, you're empowered to do your best work.
Are you a military service member within or nearing your 180-day window for separation from active duty?
Are you a military spouse fellow wanting to pursue a technology career?
If this is you, then Equinix has a unique opportunity to help kick-start the next chapter in your professional life.
We are accepting applications for our very own DoD SkillBridge Fellowship Program, supporting Data Center Operations and Critical Facilities. The training will be on the cutting edge of technology, in a digital infrastructure environment, supporting an initiative designed to connect our nation's warfighters to the best employment opportunities available.
Do you have a background in Electronics, Electrician, or HVAC, and skilled Mechanical trades?
This could be your next career move!
In this DoD Skillbridge Program with Equinix, you will:
  • Learn how your military experience translates into a rewarding civilian career
  • Explore a career or industry you might want to pursue upon separation from active duty
  • Earning real-world industry qualifications and certifications
  • Build experience and competency in your trade/ profession with our team
  • Expand your professional network of contacts
  • Gain familiarity with corporate culture

Responsibilities
Has a substantial understanding of the job while working on assignments that are moderately difficult, requiring judgment in resolving issues or making recommendations. Focuses on moderately difficult tasks, with substantial understanding of standard operating procedures. Supports the overall team.
Facility / Infrastructure Maintenance
  • Performs moderately difficult preventative and corrective maintenance checks on-site to facility components. You will perform site inspections and monitor the building and Data Center alarms
  • Performs moderately difficult repairs, maintenance, installations, and on-site inspections to facility systems. Supports energy efficiency measures
  • Monitors the Building Monitoring System (BMS) and resolves moderately difficult alarm issues that require judgement in resolving while following standard operating procedures
  • Operates and maintains plumbing, fire suppression, and safety systems
  • Operates critical infrastructures under the supervision of more senior technical staff
  • Normally receives little instruction on daily work and general instructions on newly introduced assignments

Customer Operations Technician
  • Queue Management & Reporting
  • Prioritize and manage service requests to meet deadlines
  • Maintain detailed records and audit reports
  • Installations
  • Rack and stack equipment in data centers
  • Perform fiber terminations using a fusion splicer
  • Set up telecom cabinets, fiber trays, and cage wiring. Troubleshoot fiber and copper circuits
  • Support standard cross-connect work orders
  • Other troubleshooting procedures

Site Administration & Incident Support
  • Performs moderately difficult site logs for permits, such as Maintenance Operation Protocol (MOPs) and scripts
  • Identifies Single Points of Failure (SPOFs) and makes recommendations
  • Responds to all moderately difficult on-site incidents, including failures, problems and delays
  • Uses substantial understanding in following operating procedures to support on-site administration

Work Orders & Additional Projects
  • Completes routine work requests and circuit installations
  • Troubleshoots and maintains office equipment (if necessary); supports auxiliary equipment and machines with problem-solving and repairs to avoid/minimize downtime
  • Makes minor changes to mechanical, electrical, and specialized systems, as directed
  • Carries out infrastructure projects

Collaboration
  • Collaborate with others to resolve moderately difficult facility incidents
  • Effectively collaborates within the department; may mentor team members on general maintenance activities
  • Provides stakeholders with inventory needs to maintain optimal stock levels of critical parts and equipment
  • May recommend infrastructure projects

Qualifications
  • Must meet all eligibility requirements outlined in DOD Instruction 1322.29 and NAVADMIN 222/15. Required
  • Technical associate's degree, military-technical school, or civilian technical trade school completion
  • Education level: Working on a bachelor's degree or relevant experience w/1-4 years in Mechanical Engineering or related field
  • Comprehensive knowledge of critical infrastructure, i.e., UPS, generators, BMS, chillers, life safety systems
  • Coursework in HVAC design or heat transfer and thermodynamics
  • Knowledge of HVAC testing and balancing methodologies
  • Knowledge of IT hardware and other data center operations functions
  • Good time management habits, ability to multitask, and to sustain focus on long tasks.
  • Ability to communicate thoughts and technical ideas
  • Attitude of taking initiative, enthusiasm, eagerness to learn, teamwork, and creativity.
  • Ability to lift 50 lbs
  • The ability to prioritize effectively, balance assigned work and exceptional organization skills required for our constantly evolving environments
  • Strong interpersonal and communication skills essential for team-based work assignments
  • Presentation skills with colleagues and clients of all levels

*Skillbridge Internship positions are open to active duty and/or transitioning military members. Compensation or pay for this role is made through the service member's current enlistment contract based on pay guidelines set by the Department of Defense (DoD)
Equinix is committed to ensuring that our employment process is open to all individuals, including those with a disability. If you are a qualified candidate and need assistance or an accommodation, please let us know by completing this form.
Equinix is an Equal Employment Opportunity and, in the U.S., an Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to unlawful consideration of race, color, religion, creed, national or ethnic origin, ancestry, place of birth, citizenship, sex, pregnancy / childbirth or related medical conditions, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital or domestic partnership status, age, veteran or military status, physical or mental disability, medical condition, genetic information, political / organizational affiliation, status as a victim or family member of a victim of crime or abuse, or any other status protected by applicable law.
We use artificial intelligence in our hiring process. Learn more here
This posting is a new position within our organization.

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