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Summer Power Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Base Salary: $200,000 #LI-DNP About Us IMC is a global trading firm powered by a cutting-edge ... engineers, traders, and business operations professionals are united by our uniquely collaborative ...

Base Salary: $200,000 #LI-DNP About Us IMC is a global trading firm powered by a cutting-edge ... engineers, traders, and business operations professionals are united by our uniquely collaborative ...

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Summer Power Engineer information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$108.2K

$128.9K

$148.9K

How much do summer power engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for summer power engineer in Chicago, IL is $128,950.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $120,000.00 and $139,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a summer power engineer?

Summer Power Engineers are engineering students or recent graduates who work temporary positions during the summer months, typically within the power generation, transmission, or distribution sectors. Their work includes assisting with projects related to electrical systems, supporting maintenance and operations, and applying their academic knowledge in real-world settings. These roles provide valuable hands-on experience, mentorship, and networking opportunities, often leading to future full-time employment in the power industry. Summer Power Engineers may also contribute to research, safety assessments, and technical documentation under the guidance of experienced professionals.

What does a summer power engineer do?

As a Summer Power Engineer, you can expect to work on a variety of hands-on projects such as assisting with the design and analysis of power systems, supporting equipment testing, and contributing to ongoing maintenance or upgrade initiatives. Interns often collaborate closely with experienced engineers, attend project meetings, and may help with data collection or report preparation. The role provides exposure to real-world challenges in power distribution, renewable integration, and grid reliability, offering valuable learning experiences and professional development opportunities.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a summer power engineer?

To thrive as a Summer Power Engineer, you typically need a solid background in electrical engineering principles, coursework towards an engineering degree, and familiarity with power systems. Proficiency with industry-standard tools such as AutoCAD, MATLAB, and power system analysis software is often required. Strong problem-solving skills, teamwork, and effective communication help you stand out in collaborative project environments. These skills and qualities are essential for ensuring technical accuracy, safety, and the successful completion of power engineering projects during the internship period.

What is the difference between Summer Power Engineer vs Power Plant Operator?

AspectSummer Power EngineerPower Plant Operator
Required CredentialsEngineering degree or diploma, certifications in power systemsHigh school diploma, licensing or certification depending on jurisdiction
Work EnvironmentDesign, maintenance, and testing in power plants, often seasonalOperate and monitor plant equipment, often in shifts
Industry UsageUsed in power generation facilities during peak or seasonal periodsCommonly employed in power plants for daily operations

The Summer Power Engineer typically focuses on seasonal maintenance, testing, and system optimization, often requiring engineering credentials. In contrast, the Power Plant Operator handles daily operational tasks, monitoring equipment, and ensuring continuous power supply. Both roles are essential in power generation but differ mainly in scope, credentials, and seasonal versus ongoing responsibilities.

Is there a demand for summer power engineers?

Summer power engineers are in demand during peak seasons when increased energy needs require specialized skills in power systems, maintenance, and troubleshooting. Employers often seek candidates with relevant certifications and experience in electrical systems to ensure reliable operation during high-demand periods.

What are the most commonly searched types of Power Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Power Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Summer Power Engineer jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Summer Power Engineer job openings:

Mechanical Engineer 1 (Entry-Level) - Nuclear (Summer 2027)

Sargent & Lundy

Chicago, IL

$62K - $90K/yr

Full-time, Temporary

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 28 days ago


Sargent & Lundy rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 10 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

123rd of 451 rated engineering


Job description

This position has a target start date of Summer 2027.

  • This position will offer you the ability to directly apply your knowledge of thermodynamics, heat transfer, fluid mechanics, and power plant engineering
  • You will be preparing calculations, specifications, and technical reports to support client recommendations and reviews, and will additionally conduct equipment sizing, optimization evaluation, and selection in response to project needs
  • While supporting project teams with other Mechanical Engineers, you will be involved in system engineering, including the design, modification, and analysis of power plant mechanical systems
  • There is the potential for you to travel to client and vendor offices for design reviews and to plant site locations for construction coordination and field verification of designs

We do not sponsor employees for work authorization in the U.S. for this position.

Essential skills and experience:

  • This position requires a BS or MS in Mechanical Engineering or Chemical Engineering with a strong academic background and interest in thermodynamics, heat transfer, fluid mechanics, power engineering, turbomachinery, thermal systems, and energy conversion
  • Knowledge of the practical application of mechanical engineering and technology including applying systems, principles, techniques, procedures, and equipment to a project design
  • Knowledge of design techniques, tools, and principles involved in the production of technical plans, fabrication drawings, and models
  • Strong interest in numerical computations and problem solving
  • Proficiency with MS Office applications
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills

Valued but not required skills and experience:

  • A BS or MS degree from an ABET Engineering Accreditation Commission-approved program
  • Related engineering internship or co-op work experience
  • Successful completion of the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam, and designation as an Engineer in Training
  • Experience in writing and providing support documentation for Mechanical Engineering calculations
  • Coursework in the following:
    • Power engineering
    • Turbomachinery
    • Thermal systems
    • Energy conversion

In this role, we expect people to be willing or able to solve problems using modern tools:

  • You are expected to take engineering problems from issue to solution using data and modern tools such as automation and AI to improve workflows, reduce rework, and deliver cost-effective designs.
  • Many engineers in these roles build or use automation to create calculations, summarize technical documents, or draft design documentation, including appropriate use of agentic AI tools, with strong engineering judgment and verification of results.
  • Programming or scripting (e.g., Python, MATLAB, advanced Excel) to automate calculations, design checks, reporting, or data transformation is valued but not required.
  • We also value additional learning, such as a minor, certificate, or other training in Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence, Software Engineering, or related fields that helps you apply automation or agentic AI to real engineering problems.

At Sargent & Lundy, we care about the health and well-being of our employees. Our commitment extends beyond the workplace, offering comprehensive healthcare plans and generous paid time off to support our team members in every aspect of their lives. We understand the importance of work-life balance, which is why we are proud to provide competitive, award-winning benefits. Our dedication to employee satisfaction has earned us the prestigious Top Workplaces Culture Excellence Award for compensation and benefits in 2022, 2023, and 2024.

Health & WellnessFinancial BenefitsWork-Life Balance
  • Health Plans: Medical, Dental, Vision
  • Life & Accident Insurance
  • Disability Coverage
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
  • Back-Up Daycare
  • FSA & HSA
  • 401(k)
  • Pre-Tax Commuter Account
  • Merit Scholarship Program
  • Employee Discount Program
  • Corporate Charitable Giving Program
  • Tuition Assistance
  • First Professional Licensure Bonus
  • Employee Referral Bonus
  • Paid Annual Personal/Sick Time (PST)
  • Paid Vacation
  • Paid Holidays
  • Paid Parental Leave
  • Paid Bereavement Leave
  • Flexible Work Arrangements

$62,998 - $90,586
Sargent & Lundy discloses compensation ranges that comply with all local and state regulations. The total compensation package for eligible positions will include a base salary or an hourly rate and a comprehensive benefits package, reflecting our commitment to rewarding performance and supporting the overall well-being of our employees. Individuals may also be eligible to participate in our yearly discretionary bonus.

Join Sargent & Lundy's Nuclear Power Group and be part of a team driving the future of clean, carbon-free energy. Since 1954, we’ve been a trusted leader in nuclear engineering, design, and licensing, with expertise spanning small modular reactors (SMRs), advanced reactor technology (ART), and first-of-a-kind commercial reactor restart projects. Our work supports life extensions and digital modernization of existing nuclear plants, coal-to-nuclear conversion initiatives with the Department of State, and international nuclear new-build projects. With a commitment to safety, innovation, and sustainability, we provide cutting-edge solutions that power communities worldwide while reducing emissions. Shape the future of global energy with us!


Sargent & Lundy is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any protected status as defined by applicable law.


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About Sargent & Lundy

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Sargent & Lundy is one of the most experienced full-service architect-engineering firms in the world. Founded in 1891, the firm is a global leader in power and energy with expertise in grid modernization, renewable energy, energy storage, nuclear power, and fossil fuels. Sargent & Lundy delivers comprehensive project services--from consulting, design and implementation to construction management, commissioning and operations/maintenance--with an emphasis on quality and safety. The firm serves public and private sector clients in the power and energy, gas distribution, industrial, and government sectors.

Industry

Civil engineering construction

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Chicago, IL, US

Year founded

1891

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