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Trainee Engineer Jobs in Normal, IL (NOW HIRING)

Caterpillar

E4L Student Trainee

East Peoria, IL · On-site

$15 - $17.50/hr

... engineering and supply chain. Requirements * Student Trainee in manufacturing for the 2026-2027 school year. * Must be a high school senior attending Manual High School, Morton High School, Richwoods ...

Constellation Energy

Senior Reactor Operator

Eureka, IL · On-site

$159K - $191K/yr

Constellation is seeking Initial License Trainees (ILT) to become a licensed Senior Reactor ... Degree from a 4-year program or equivalent in engineering, engineering technology, or physical ...

Constellation Energy

Senior Reactor Operator

Merna, IL · On-site

$159K - $191K/yr

Constellation is seeking Initial License Trainees (ILT) to become a licensed Senior Reactor ... Degree from a 4-year program or equivalent in engineering, engineering technology, or physical ...

Constellation Energy

Senior Reactor Operator

Colfax, IL · On-site

$159K - $191K/yr

Constellation is seeking Initial License Trainees (ILT) to become a licensed Senior Reactor ... Degree from a 4-year program or equivalent in engineering, engineering technology, or physical ...

Constellation Energy

Senior Reactor Operator

Heyworth, IL · On-site

$159K - $191K/yr

Constellation is seeking Initial License Trainees (ILT) to become a licensed Senior Reactor ... Degree from a 4-year program or equivalent in engineering, engineering technology, or physical ...

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All JobsEngineer JobsTrainee Engineer JobsTrainee Engineer Jobs in Normal, IL

Trainee Engineer information

See Normal, IL salary details

$29.8K

$67.1K

$112.9K

How much do trainee engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for trainee engineer in Normal, IL is $67,084.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $50,800.00 and $72,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a trainee engineer?

Trainee engineers are entry-level professionals who have recently completed their engineering education and are undergoing practical training within an organization. Their role is to gain hands-on experience, develop technical skills, and learn about the company's processes under the guidance of senior engineers. Trainee engineers may rotate through different departments to understand various aspects of engineering work and to identify their areas of interest. The goal is to prepare them for full-time engineering positions by building a strong foundation in both technical and soft skills.

What do trainee engineers do?

As a Trainee Engineer, you can expect to work on a variety of entry-level engineering projects under the guidance of experienced team members. Typical responsibilities include assisting with technical documentation, conducting research, performing basic calculations or tests, and supporting ongoing design or implementation tasks. You'll often collaborate closely with engineers from different disciplines, attend regular team meetings, and participate in training sessions to build your technical and soft skills. This hands-on experience is designed to help you understand company processes and prepare you for more complex assignments as you progress.

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

To thrive as a Trainee Engineer, you need a solid understanding of engineering principles, analytical skills, and a relevant degree in engineering or a related field. Familiarity with CAD software, industry-specific tools, and an openness to learning new technologies is typically expected. Strong problem-solving abilities, effective communication, and teamwork set standout candidates apart. These skills ensure you can effectively contribute to projects, adapt to evolving technical requirements, and integrate smoothly into engineering teams.

What is the difference between Trainee Engineer vs Junior Engineer?

AspectTrainee EngineerJunior Engineer
QualificationsTypically pursuing or recently completed relevant degree or diplomaCompleted degree or diploma, with some work experience
Work EnvironmentTraining period, supervised tasks, learning-focusedIndependent task execution, project involvement
ResponsibilitiesAssisting senior staff, learning proceduresPerforming assigned technical tasks, supporting projects
Career StageEntry-level, training phaseEarly career, gaining experience

In summary, a Trainee Engineer is in the learning and training phase, focusing on skill development under supervision, while a Junior Engineer has completed their education and is actively working on technical tasks with more independence, marking the beginning of their professional career.

How much does a trainee engineer make?

A trainee engineer's salary typically ranges from $30,000 to $50,000 annually, depending on the industry, location, and level of education. Entry-level positions often include on-the-job training and may offer additional benefits such as certifications or skill development opportunities.

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

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

What cities near Normal, IL are hiring for Trainee Engineer jobs?

Cities near Normal, IL with the most Trainee Engineer job openings:

Trainee Engineer jobs near you

E4L Student Trainee

East Peoria, IL • On-site

Caterpillar

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 487 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

271st of 495 rated machine equipment manufacturers

People enjoy working here

Good employer

Recommended by students

Learn more about Caterpillarexternal

$15 - $17.50/hr

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Career Area:
Business Services
Job Description:
Your Work Shapes the World at Caterpillar Inc.
When you join Caterpillar, you're joining a global team who cares not just about the work we do - but also about each other. We are the makers, problem solvers, and future world builders who are creating stronger, more sustainable communities. We don't just talk about progress and innovation here - we make it happen, with our customers, where we work and live. Together, we are building a better world, so we can all enjoy living in it.
Hear about the Caterpillar Experience for yourself
Role Definition
The E4L Student Trainee Program allows students the opportunity to work at Caterpillar while going to school. At Caterpillar you will have global exposure and opportunities, deep employee and leadership development resources and a compelling career path to make it possible to have the flexibility and excitement of a diverse career without needing to "start over" at a new company. Even while building deep expertise in one function, our employees can experience different career opportunities by moving between our many business units, locations and product lines throughout their career.
What you will do
  • Student Trainees will work 10-32 hours a week in manufacturing roles in Caterpillar's East Peoria Building KK.
  • Following training in safety and manufacturing processes, student trainees will work closely with current employees in one or more of the following areas: machining, heat treat, quality, assembly, logistics, engineering and supply chain.

Requirements
  • Student Trainee in manufacturing for the 2026-2027 school year.
  • Must be a high school senior attending Manual High School, Morton High School, Richwoods High School, or East Peoria Community High School
  • Must have successfully completed a high school manufacturing program or be recommended by an advisor, teacher, or principal.

Top candidates will also have
  • Interest in a potential career in manufacturing
  • Aptitude for assembly and mechanical work.
  • Ability to follow documented procedures for standard work, to perform work safely and free of defects.
  • Physical Requirements (with or without reasonable accommodation)
  • Ability to sit or stand for prolonged periods
  • Ability to perform repetitive operations
  • Ability to lift up to 35 lbs.

Additional Information
  • This position will close on 8/20/2025 at 11:59 pm.
  • These are part-time, temporary positions.
  • The location for this position is onsite in East Peoria, IL at Building KK.
  • Relocation assistance is NOT available for this position.
  • Sponsorship is NOT available for this position.

Final details
Please frequently check the email associated with your application, including the junk/spam folder, as this is the primary correspondence method. If you wish to know the status of your application - please use the candidate log-in on our career website as it will reflect any updates to your status.
Summary Pay Range:
$15.00 - $17.50
Compensation and benefits offered may vary depending on multiple individualized factors, job level, market location, job-related knowledge, skills, individual performance and experience. Please note that salary is only one component of total compensation at Caterpillar.
Benefits:
Subject to plan eligibility, terms, and guidelines. This is a summary list of benefits.
  • Medical, dental, and vision benefits*
  • Paid time off plan (Vacation, Holidays, Volunteer, etc.)*
  • 401(k) savings plans*
  • Health Savings Account (HSA)*
  • Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs)*
  • Health Lifestyle Programs*
  • Employee Assistance Program*
  • Voluntary Benefits and Employee Discounts*
  • Career Development*
  • Incentive bonus*
  • Disability benefits
  • Life Insurance
  • Parental leave
  • Adoption benefits
  • Tuition Reimbursement

* These benefits also apply to part-time employees
Posting Dates:
August 17, 2026 - August 20, 2026
Any offer of employment is conditioned upon the successful completion of a drug screen.
Caterpillar is an Equal Opportunity Employer, Including Veterans and Individuals with Disabilities. Qualified applicants of any age are encouraged to apply.
Not ready to apply? Join our Talent Community.

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