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

UI Developer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$51.50 - $67/hr

We are looking for an experienced UI front-end developer to join our UI platform team. We operate ... If you are currently a student or recent graduate, please see our Campus postings which offer both ...

UI Developer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$200 - $250/hr

We are looking for an experienced UI front-end developer to join our UI platform team. We operate ... If you are currently a student or recent graduate, please see our Campus postings which offer both ...

UI Developer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$200K - $250K/yr

We are looking for an experienced UI front-end developer to join our UI platform team. We operate ... If you are currently a student or recent graduate, please see our Campus postings which offer both ...

Account Manager

Woodridge, IL · On-site

$55K - $80K/yr

... three engineering technical centers, a multi-tiered sales service channel, and 3,000+ employees ... What You'll Do We are seeking a motivated junior-level professional, recent graduate, or early ...

Join OceanComm's engineering team and help build undersea drones, intelligent sensors, and other ... Actively enrolled in an academic program, not a recent graduate * Full-time, on-site commitment for ...

Join OceanComm's engineering team and help build undersea drones, intelligent sensors, and other ... Actively enrolled in an academic program, not a recent graduate * Full-time, on-site commitment for ...

Engineering Intern / Co-op

Chicago, IL · On-site

$48.22 - $75.77/hr

Join OceanComm's engineering team and help build undersea drones, intelligent sensors, and other ... Actively enrolled in an academic program, not a recent graduate * Full‑time, on‑site commitment ...

Join OceanComm's engineering team and help build undersea drones, intelligent sensors, and other ... Actively enrolled in an academic program, not a recent graduate * Full-time, on-site commitment for ...

Join OceanComm's engineering team and help build undersea drones, intelligent sensors, and other ... Actively enrolled in an academic program, not a recent graduate * Full-time, on-site commitment for ...

Showing results 41-60

Recent Graduate Engineer information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$31.4K

$70.7K

$119K

How much do recent graduate engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for recent graduate engineer in Chicago, IL is $70,685.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $53,600.00 and $76,700.00 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 cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Recent Graduate Engineer jobs?

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

Infographic showing various Recent Graduate Engineer job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 72% Full Time, 19% Part Time, and 9% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $70,685 per year, or $34 per hour.

Field Application Engineer - Entry Level (January or July 2027) - On-site

Usi Insurance

Itasca, IL • On-site

$53.94 - $80.76/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 5 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Solve complex customer challenges through creative configurations of technical products.

  • Install and program products using hand tools or programming languages.

  • Provide on‑call, on‑site, and remote technical support, training, and troubleshooting.


Job description

Field Application Engineer - Entry Level (January or July 2027)

Join KEYENCE as a Field Application Engineer

Training Classes Begins January or July 2027
Multiple U.S. Locations | Entry-Level | Full-Time

Are you ready to launch your career with one of the world’s most innovative companies? KEYENCE is looking for driven, adaptable engineers to join ourField Application Engineer Team. 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.

Location Flexibility

Choose up totwo preferred office locationswhen you apply—we’ll do our best to place you where you want to be. You’ll work within a regional territory, not nationwide.

What We Offer

  • Base Salary:$53,940 – $80,760 (based on location)
  • Performance Bonus Target:$24,000 annually (performance-based), paid quarterly
  • World‑Class Training:Paid, hands‑on training and on‑the‑job mentorship
  • Benefits:Medical, dental, vision, 401K match, ~4 weeks PTO in first full year
  • Career Growth:Promote‑from‑within culture with base and bonus increases

Why KEYENCE?

  • Recognized by Forbes as one ofWorld’s Most Innovative Companies
  • A global leader in factory automation and quality assurance solutions
  • Operating profit of over 40% for 25 consecutive years
  • A culture that invests in your success from day one

Ready to make an impact? Apply now and start your journey with KEYENCE in January or July 2027!

KEYENCE is an at‑will, Equal Opportunity Employer.

Job Responsibilities What You’ll Do

As aField Application Engineer, you’ll be at the forefront of solving complex technical challenges and shaping the future of American manufacturing. This is a field‑based position with most of your time on‑site with customers and sales teams. The title for this role may be calledApplication Engineer, Vision Consulting Engineer, or Integration Support Engineerdepending on the product line you may be hired for.

  • Solve complex customer challenges through creative configurations of our technical products
  • Install and program our products using hand tools or programming languages.
  • Provide on‑call, on‑site and remote technical support, training, and troubleshooting
  • Travel extensively (60-100%) across your assigned region—by car or plane—to deliver hands‑on solutions
  • Conduct product testing and create detailed proposal reports to aid our sales team.
  • Work in dynamic environments—manufacturing floors, labs, and more—with occasional lifting (up to 60 lbs.) and off‑hours support
Qualifications What We're Looking For
  • Bachelor’s degree (or Associate’s and 4+ years military experience)
  • Strong work ethic and a passion for solving challenging problems
  • Flexibility to adapt your schedule and support customers and salespeople
  • Willingness to travel (60-100%), including overnight
  • Valid driver’s license and personal vehicle
  • Ability to lift and transport demo equipment (35–85 lbs.) into customer sites
How to Apply

This career opportunity and direct referral is intended for Evans Scholars.

Please submit an application through Keyence's online application and reference your affiliation with the Evans Scholars Foundation. Once you apply, click HERE to notify Nick Gasbarro (Talent Acquisition at Keyence). Include your resume, interest in the position and preferred locaitons. To provide additional support, Dan Puglisi (Senior Director, Career Services) is copied on the outreach.

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