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Recent Grad Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Open to a recent grad or 0 - 3 years of experience. * Requires competent engineering and technical judgment. * Fluid Power Pneumatic certification within first 12 months through company * Proficient ...

New

Application Engineer

Cary, IL · On-site

$74K - $137K/yr

The opportunity to learn from the technical experts, sales and application engineers who provide ... Opportunity to network and participate in fun activities and recent college grad community at ...

Application Engineer

Cary, IL · On-site

$74K - $137K/yr

The opportunity to learn from the technical experts, sales and application engineers who provide ... Opportunity to network and participate in fun activities and recent college grad community at ...

Application Engineer

Cary, IL · On-site

$74K - $137K/yr

The opportunity to learn from the technical experts, sales and application engineers who provide ... Opportunity to network and participate in fun activities and recent college grad community at ...

Recent Grad Engineer information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$11.3K

$74.8K

$129.3K

How much do recent grad engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average yearly pay for recent grad engineer in Chicago, IL is $74,779.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $46,400.00 and $85,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a recent grad engineer do?

A Recent Grad Engineer is an entry-level engineer who has recently completed their degree and is starting their professional career. They typically work under the supervision of more experienced engineers and assist with designing, testing, and implementing engineering projects. Their responsibilities may include data analysis, drafting reports, collaborating with multidisciplinary teams, and learning industry-specific tools and protocols. The role provides valuable hands-on experience and helps build the foundational skills necessary for a successful engineering career.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a recent grad engineer?

To thrive as a Recent Grad Engineer, you need a solid grounding in engineering fundamentals, problem-solving, and analytical thinking, usually supported by a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with industry-standard software like AutoCAD, MATLAB, or SolidWorks, and basic project management tools, is highly beneficial. Strong communication, teamwork, and a willingness to learn help recent graduates stand out as they adapt to professional environments. These skills and qualities are crucial for effectively contributing to projects, learning from experienced colleagues, and advancing within the engineering field.

What are some common challenges recent grad engineers face when transitioning from academia to industry?

Recent grad engineers often find the shift from academic projects to real-world engineering work challenging due to differences in project scope, pace, and collaboration. In industry, you’ll likely work in cross-functional teams, handle multiple tasks simultaneously, and need to communicate your ideas clearly to both technical and non-technical colleagues. Additionally, adapting to industry-standard tools, workflows, and expectations regarding deadlines and deliverables can require adjustment. Seeking mentorship and proactively asking questions can help ease this transition and accelerate your professional growth.

What is the difference between Recent Grad Engineer vs Entry-Level Engineer?

AspectRecent Grad EngineerEntry-Level Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in engineering or related field; internship or co-op experience often preferredBachelor's degree in engineering; minimal work experience required
Work EnvironmentTypically in engineering firms, manufacturing plants, or construction sitesSimilar environments, often in design, testing, or project support roles
Employer & Industry UsageCommonly used for recent graduates starting their engineering careersUsed interchangeably with 'Recent Grad Engineer' in many companies

Recent Grad Engineer and Entry-Level Engineer are often used interchangeably to describe individuals starting their engineering careers with minimal professional experience. Both roles typically require a bachelor's degree and involve similar work environments. The main difference is that 'Recent Grad Engineer' emphasizes recent graduation, while 'Entry-Level Engineer' highlights the level of experience. Employers may use these titles based on their hiring preferences, but both serve as starting points for engineering professionals.

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Recent Grad Engineer jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Recent Grad Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Recent Grad Engineer job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 6% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $74,779 per year, or $36 per hour.

Applications Engineer

IMI Norgren

University Park, IL • On-site

$85 - $95/hr

Other

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted yesterday

New


Job description

IMI plc

At IMI, we’re not just creating solutions; we’re building careers. So, unlock your potential: do work that matters, grow with us, and be part of a team shaping tomorrow.

Here, you can make a real difference – solving complex engineering challenges that make industries smarter, safer and more sustainable. From the energy that powers homes to the systems that keep the world moving, you’ll help create solutions the world depends on.
But it’s not just about the work – it’s about how you grow. We encourage curiosity, make learning part of everyday life, and give you real opportunities to build new skills and move your career forward.
We believe in nurturing your wellbeing, too, with strong benefits and flexible policies that help you succeed. At IMI, you’ll find a supportive, collaborative and inclusive environment where you can truly thrive.

Role Overview:

The purpose of the Application Engineer position is to work as a team member to provide the highest level of product and application related technical support for our customers and internal sales teams.

We offer an Engineering Advantage to our customers by improving designs for manufacturing, profitability, performance, quality, and customer requirements on existing and new products. This role will provide high level technical support on existing products to our customers and internal sales teams within the company as well as provide competitor product crossovers to drive customer satisfaction and contribute to sales growth.

Work Environment:

Hybrid schedule in University Park, IL or Denver, CO

Key Responsibilities:
  • Provide the highest quality level of technical product and application support to all sales channels and other internal customers in a timely manner. This support may include but not limited to:

Technical questions about our own products

Size and selection of our products to meet customer specifications and application requirements

  • Ability to understand competitor products and identify weaknesses and advantages
  • Strong knowledge around pneumatic system connectivity and machine communication protocols
  • Demonstrated ability to size, select, and specify electro-mechanical systems, including both mechanics and controls (motors)
  • Ability to utilize and understand various product configurator and sizing tools
  • Read and understand product drawings, ISO schematics, P&ID’s, pneumatic and electrical system circuits
  • Develop strong working relationships with IMI personnel and customers
  • Strong product knowledge and application expertise for our complete product portfolio for the Industrial Automation business group
  • Verifying product specifications across multiple different global manufacturing sites
  • Assist our Distributors, End Customers, and Sales Teams as required
  • Identify improvement ideas within the product and application technical support processes
  • Ability to manipulate CAD files is a benefit
  • Other duties as assigned
Critical Competencies for Success:
  • Bachelors Degree in Engineering (Mechanical, Electrical or Mechatronics) or a related technical field
  • Open to a recent grad or 0 - 3 years of experience.
  • Requires competent engineering and technical judgment.
  • Fluid Power Pneumatic certification within first 12 months through company
  • Proficient with MS Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint & Outlook)
  • Working knowledge of Customer Relationship Management systems (Salesforce)

Pay range: $85k – 95k USD

Within this range, individual pay is determined based on skills, experience, and qualifications relative to the job requirements. Base pay information is aligned with market location and may be subject to prevailing wage laws, if applicable.

What IMI Can Offer You

At IMI, one of our top priorities is to create an inclusive culture of health. We strive to remove barriers to care (whether that be physical or financial) and in doing so, we offer choice for all your health and wellbeing needs.

See below for a general overview of our amazing perks and benefits:

  • Multiple health plans to choose from: HMO, PPO, and High Deductible Health Plans with a low-cost share
  • Best-in-class 401K plan with zero vesting and up to 6% contribution matching
  • 14-week maternity leave at full pay following one year of service (Adoption benefits are equivalent)
  • 4-week paternity leave at full pay following one year of service (Adoption benefits are equivalent)
  • Employee Resource Groups that offer community and support, like our Pride Network and Network of Women groups
  • PTO, encompassing inclusive holidays
  • Career Development opportunities (IMI’s ‘Catalyst’ Program)
  • Employer contribution for Health Savings Account, and in many cases free virtual telemedicine, and teletherapy.
  • Mental Health and wellness programs to support you and your family
  • Full suite of voluntary benefits to tap into, including but not limited to: Critical illness insurance, hospital indemnity, legal insurance, identity theft protection, and pet insurance or home & auto insurance through our discount advantage platform
  • Short & long-term disability as well as basic life insurance at 2x your basic salary at no cost to the employee
  • Free financial advisors, webinars, and classes through Charles Schwab
  • Annual Employee Stock Purchase Plan with option to purchase IMI shares at a reduced employee only price - no opportunity to lose, only to profit or refund your investment 100%

**Benefits plans change year over year, but we have guiding principles in place to ensure our employees have the tools and resources available to stay connected and up to date**

Health & Safety

The physical demands described within the Key Duties & Responsibilities section of this job description are required to perform the essential functions of this position. Reasonable accommodations may be made for individuals with disabilities. Please contact your local HR representative to discuss the specific Work Conditions and Physical Requirements of this role.

Health, Safety, and Environmental Duties – At IMI we are all personally committed to protecting our people, minimizing our impact to the environment, the communities we operate in and our company. All members of our workforce have the duty to ensure the health, safety and welfare of themselves, others, and the environment. Every employee is expected to follow all HSE operating procedures, also to challenge any observed behaviors or unsafe acts.

Code of Ethics

IMI requires the highest standard of ethics in all business dealings, particularly with customers, suppliers, advisors, employees, and the authorities. In accordance with the IMI Way: Our Code of Responsible Business.

Changes to This Job Description

IMI may amend this job description in whole or part at any time.

IMI is an equal opportunity employer. Qualified applicants will be considered without regard to age, race, creed, color, national origin, ancestry, marital status, affectional or sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, nationality, sex, or veteran status.

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