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Recent Graduate Engineer Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Systematics

Packaging Engineer

Itasca, IL · On-site

$70K - $80K/yr

This role is ideal for a recent graduate or early-career engineer with hands-on Eng View and AutoCAD experience who is eager to grow their skills in corrugate structural design, retail display ...

Gotion, Inc.

Junior Controls Engineer

Manteno, IL · On-site

This is an excellent opportunity for a recent graduate or early-career engineer to gain hands-on experience supporting automated manufacturing equipment and production processes in a fast-paced ...

KEYENCE

Field Application Engineer '27

Chicago, IL · On-site +1

$53K - $80K/yr

Whether you're a recent graduate or early in your career, this is your opportunity to grow with a global leader in automation and technology. What You'll Do As a Field Application Engineer , you'll ...

Jump Trading

HPC Systems Engineer

Chicago, IL

Our global High Performance Computing Team is looking to add a Production Engineer in our Chicago ... Reliable and predictable availability If you are currently a student or recent graduate, please see ...

Jump Trading

Digital Modem Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$150K - $250K/yr

Trading Infrastructure is a global organization of Engineers who architect, build and maintain our ... or recent graduate, please see our Campus postings which offer both intern and full-time ...

Hansoninc

Bridge Civil Engineer (EIT)

Springfield, IL · On-site

$76K - $95K/yr

Candidate may be recent graduate or an experienced individual with up to (3) years of experience (salary commensurate with experience) * Candidates with a master's degree in structural engineering ...

Hansoninc

Bridge Civil Engineer (EIT)

Peoria, IL · On-site

$76K - $95K/yr

Candidate may be recent graduate or an experienced individual with up to (3) years of experience (salary commensurate with experience) * Candidates with a master's degree in structural engineering ...

Hansoninc

Bridge Civil Engineer (EIT)

Lisle, IL · On-site

$76K - $95K/yr

Candidate may be recent graduate or an experienced individual with up to (3) years of experience (salary commensurate with experience) * Candidates with a master's degree in structural engineering ...

Jump Trading

HPC Systems Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$150K - $200K/yr

Our global High Performance Computing Team is looking to add a Production Engineer in our Chicago ... Reliable and predictable availability If you are currently a student or recent graduate, please see ...

Clerkie

Software Engineer Internship

Chicago, IL · On-site +1

$80/hr

A soon-to-be or recent graduate (class of 2024 or 2025 preferred) with a degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or a related field * Proficiency in JavaScript/TypeScript and experience ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsRecent Graduate Engineer JobsRecent Graduate Engineer Jobs in Illinois

Recent Graduate Engineer information

See Illinois salary details

$29.6K

$66.5K

$111.9K

How much do recent graduate engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for recent graduate engineer in Illinois is $66,491.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $50,400.00 and $72,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a recent graduate engineer?

Recent graduate engineers are individuals who have recently completed an engineering degree and are beginning their professional careers. They typically have foundational knowledge in their specific engineering discipline, such as civil, mechanical, electrical, or software engineering. These engineers often start in entry-level positions where they gain practical experience, develop technical skills, and learn workplace protocols. Many employers offer training and mentorship programs to help recent graduates transition smoothly into the workforce.

What are some common challenges recent graduate engineers face during their first year on the job?

Recent graduate engineers often encounter challenges such as adapting to real-world project timelines, transitioning from academic theory to practical application, and understanding workplace communication protocols. Navigating team dynamics and learning to balance multiple tasks or projects simultaneously can also be new experiences. Seeking mentorship and actively asking questions can help ease the transition and accelerate professional growth in the early stages of an engineering career.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a recent graduate engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Recent Graduate Engineer, you need a solid grasp of engineering fundamentals, problem-solving abilities, and at least a bachelor's degree in engineering or a related field. Familiarity with industry-standard software such as AutoCAD, MATLAB, or SolidWorks, as well as experience with project management tools, is typically expected. Strong communication, teamwork, and adaptability will help you excel in collaborative, fast-paced environments. These skills are crucial for effectively contributing to projects, learning quickly on the job, and successfully transitioning from academia to professional engineering practice.

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

AspectRecent Graduate EngineerEntry-Level Engineer
QualificationsRecent degree, limited work experienceSame as recent graduate, possibly some internships
Work EnvironmentTraining-focused, supervised rolesOperational roles with increasing responsibilities
Industry UsageCommonly used for new graduates entering engineering rolesBroader term for early-career engineers

Recent Graduate Engineer typically refers to individuals who have recently completed their engineering degree and are starting their professional careers, often in training or supervised roles. Entry-Level Engineer is a broader term that includes recent graduates and those with minimal work experience beginning their engineering jobs. Both roles are aimed at early-career professionals, but 'Recent Graduate Engineer' emphasizes the candidate's recent academic completion, while 'Entry-Level Engineer' highlights the job level regardless of graduation timing.

Are recent graduate engineers struggling to find jobs?

Recent graduate engineers often face competitive job markets, especially in fields requiring specialized skills or certifications. Employment prospects can vary based on industry demand, geographic location, and the current economic climate, but gaining practical experience through internships and developing technical skills can improve job prospects.

How to get a job as a recent graduate engineer?

To secure a job as a recent graduate engineer, candidates should build a strong resume highlighting relevant coursework, internships, and technical skills such as CAD or programming. Networking through career fairs, professional organizations, and online platforms like LinkedIn can also improve job prospects. Additionally, obtaining relevant certifications or licenses may enhance employability in certain engineering fields.

What jobs do recent graduate engineers go into?

Recent graduate engineers typically pursue entry-level roles such as design engineer, project engineer, manufacturing engineer, or quality engineer. These positions often require knowledge of engineering principles, technical skills, and sometimes certifications like EIT or FE, and may involve working in industries such as construction, manufacturing, or technology.

What are popular job titles related to Recent Graduate Engineer jobs in Illinois?

For Recent Graduate Engineer jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Recent Graduate Engineer jobs in Illinois look for?

The top searched job categories for Recent Graduate Engineer jobs in Illinois are:

What cities in Illinois are hiring for Recent Graduate Engineer jobs?

Cities in Illinois with the most Recent Graduate Engineer job openings:

Recent Graduate Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Recent Graduate Engineer job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 5% Internship, 92% Full Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 92% In-person, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $66,491 per year, or $32 per hour.

Entry-Level Civil Inspection Engineer (50349)

Collins Engineers Inc.

Chicago, IL • On-site

$75K - $80K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 18 days ago

Job description

Collins is an ENR Top 500 Design Firm. We have opportunities for you.
Collins has an opening for an Entry-Level Engineer in our Chicago, IL office to join our Structural Inspection Group. In this role, you will primarily assist with bridge and transportation structure inspections, condition assessments, and report preparation, with exposure to design-related tasks as needed. You will be mentored by experienced inspection engineers in both the office and the field. This position offers a unique opportunity to gain hands-on field experience, build a strong understanding of structural behavior, and develop inspection and documentation skills within the transportation industry.
Typical Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Perform field inspections of bridges and transportation-related structures under the supervision of licensed professional engineers.
  • Assist in the preparation of inspection, evaluation, and condition assessment reports.
  • Document field observations, measurements, and photographs in accordance with agency and inspection standards.
  • Support review of structure plans, load ratings, and previous inspection records to aid in inspection and assessment efforts.
  • Use computer-assisted engineering and inspection software to prepare report exhibits, sketches, calculations, and supporting documentation.
  • Perform limited design computations or quantity estimates related to inspection findings, repair concepts, or rehabilitation alternatives (as applicable).
  • Coordinate with draftspersons/technicians on figures, data entry, and report preparation.
  • Includes limited communication with clients and agency representatives regarding inspection activities and findings.
  • Field work is required and may include nights, weekends, travel, and working at heights or over traffic and water.

Relocation assistance is available.
Click HERE to see the variety of benefits that Collins has to offer.
Qualifications
Education and/or Experience:
  • Senior or recent graduate with a bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering from an accredited university.
  • Interest in bridge and structural inspection, field work, and transportation infrastructure.
  • Previous experience with AutoCAD, MicroStation, Bluebeam, or Civil 3D is a plus.
  • Previous experience with Microsoft Office Suite and Adobe PDF or other PDF editing software is a plus.
  • Engineer-In-Training (E.I.T.) certification, or ability to obtain within one year.
  • Valid driver's license and willingness to perform required field work

Physical Demands:
  • The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
  • While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to sit; use hands to finger, handle, or feel objects, tools, or controls; and reach with hands and arms.
  • The employee frequently is required to talk or hear.
  • The employee is occasionally required to stand, walk, stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl.
  • The employee must frequently lift and/or move up to 10 pounds and occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds.
  • Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, color vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus.

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