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Associate Degree Jobs in Decatur, IL (NOW HIRING)

Associate degree in Agronomy, or related field required; Bachelor's degree preferred. * Prior experience in agricultural research or field operations is a plus. * Must have valid driver's license and ...

Research Associate I

Ivesdale, IL · On-site

$60K - $70K/yr

Associate degree in Agronomy, or related field required; Bachelor's degree preferred. * Prior experience in agricultural research or field operations is a plus. * Must have valid driver's license and ...

QC/Production Associate I

Decatur, IL · On-site

$14.50 - $18.50/hr

High school diploma required; associates degree in chemistry, engineering, or natural sciences preferred. * Technical experience with computer-controlled automation preferred. * Efficient in the use ...

QC/Production Associate I

Decatur, IL

$14.50 - $18.50/hr

Qualifications High school diploma required; associates degree in chemistry, engineering, or natural sciences preferred. Technical experience with computer-controlled automation preferred. Efficient ...

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Associate Degree information

See Decatur, IL salary details

$10

$19

$32

How much do associate degree jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for associate degree in Decatur, IL is $19.27, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.47 and $20.05 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Associate Degree vs Medical Assistant?

AspectAssociate DegreeMedical Assistant
Required CredentialsTypically requires 2-year college coursework, including general education and major-specific classesUsually requires a postsecondary certificate or diploma, sometimes an associate degree, with certification preferred
Work EnvironmentVaries widely; can include healthcare, business, technology, depending on majorPrimarily in healthcare settings such as clinics, hospitals, and physicians' offices
Employer & Industry UsageUsed across multiple industries; not specific to healthcarePrimarily employed in healthcare as clinical or administrative support staff

While an Associate Degree offers broader educational options across various fields, a Medical Assistant program focuses specifically on healthcare support roles. Medical Assistants often pursue certification to enhance job prospects, whereas an Associate Degree provides foundational knowledge for diverse careers.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Associate Degree holder in the workforce, and why are they important?

To thrive with an Associate Degree, you need foundational knowledge in your chosen field, practical problem-solving abilities, and the credential itself. Familiarity with industry-specific software, technical tools, or certifications—such as Microsoft Office for business or CompTIA A+ for IT—can enhance your qualifications. Strong communication, teamwork, and time management skills help you stand out and adapt to diverse workplace environments. These competencies are essential to demonstrate readiness for entry-level roles, support career advancement, and contribute effectively to organizational goals.

What kind of job can an associate degree get?

An associate degree can qualify individuals for entry-level positions in fields such as healthcare, technology, business, and skilled trades. Common jobs include administrative assistant, dental assistant, pharmacy technician, IT support specialist, and HVAC technician, often requiring specific technical skills or certifications. These roles typically involve working in office, clinical, or technical environments and may require on-the-job training or additional certification.

What are associate degrees?

Associate degrees are undergraduate academic programs that typically take about two years to complete at a community college, technical school, or some universities. They provide foundational knowledge and skills in a specific field, preparing students for entry-level jobs or further education. Many students use an associate degree as a stepping stone to a bachelor's degree, while others enter the workforce directly after graduation. Common types include Associate of Arts (AA), Associate of Science (AS), and Associate of Applied Science (AAS).

What job makes $10,000 a month without a degree?

High-paying sales roles such as real estate brokers or financial advisors can earn $10,000 or more per month, often requiring strong communication skills, industry knowledge, and licensing. Additionally, some entrepreneurs or business owners generate this level of income through their ventures, but these paths typically involve significant experience and risk.

What types of entry-level roles are commonly available to candidates with an associate degree, and how can graduates position themselves for advancement?

Graduates with an associate degree often find entry-level opportunities in fields such as healthcare (e.g., medical assistant, radiologic technologist), information technology (e.g., support specialist), business administration, and skilled trades. To position themselves for advancement, candidates should gain hands-on experience, seek industry certifications, and actively participate in professional development opportunities. Networking with colleagues, seeking mentorship, and demonstrating a strong work ethic can also help associate degree holders move into supervisory or specialized roles over time.

What are the highest paid associate degrees?

Associate degrees in fields such as nursing (ADN), dental hygiene, computer science, and engineering technology tend to lead to higher-paying jobs, often with salaries ranging from $50,000 to $70,000 annually. These programs typically require technical skills, certifications, and practical training, and graduates can work in healthcare, technology, or technical industries with strong job growth and earning potential.

What can you do if you have an associate's degree?

An associate's degree qualifies individuals for entry-level positions in fields such as healthcare, technology, business, and skilled trades. Common roles include administrative assistant, dental assistant, technician, or customer service representative, often requiring specific technical skills or certifications. It can also serve as a foundation for further education or training to advance in a career.
What job categories do people searching Associate Degree jobs in Decatur, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Associate Degree jobs in Decatur, IL are:
What cities near Decatur, IL are hiring for Associate Degree jobs? Cities near Decatur, IL with the most Associate Degree job openings:
Associate Simulator Engineer

Associate Simulator Engineer

Constellation Energy

White Heath, IL

$74K - $83K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 25 days ago


Constellation Energy rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 96 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

12th of 74 rated oil and gas companies


Job description

Constellation Energy is looking for an Exceptional Associate Simulator Software Engineer for our corporate group at Clinton Nuclear Power Station in Clinton, IL
Who We Are

As the largest private-sector power producer in the world and the nation's largest producer of clean and reliable energy, Constellation is focused on our purpose: lighting the way to a brilliant tomorrow for all. We have been the leader in clean energy production for more than a decade, and we are cultivating a workplace where our employees can grow, thrive, and contribute. Now integrated with Calpine, our portfolio includes 55 gigawatts of capacity from nuclear, natural gas, geothermal, hydro, wind and solar facilities, with the generating capacity to power the equivalent of 27 million homes.
Our culture and employee experience make it clear: We are powered by passion and purpose. Together, we're creating healthier communities and a cleaner planet, and our people are the driving force behind our success. At Constellation, you can build a fulfilling career with opportunities to learn, grow and make an impact. By doing our best work and meeting new challenges, we can accomplish great things. Join us in meeting the country's energy needs today and tomorrow.

Total Rewards

Constellation offers an extensive selection of benefits and rewards to help our employees thrive professionally and personally. We provide competitive compensation and a wide-range of benefits that support both employees and their families, helping them prepare for the future. In addition to highly competitive salaries, eligible employees are offered a bonus program, 401(k) with company match, employee stock purchase program comprehensive medical, dental and vision benefits, including robust wellbeing programs disability and life insurance benefits paid time off for vacation, holidays, and sick days and much more.

Expected salary range of $74,700 to $83,000, varies based on experience, along with comprehensive benefits package that includes bonus and 401(k).

Primary Purpose of Position

Responsible for creating and modifying simulation software logic and dynamic models used at a nuclear power plant in the Main Control Room Simulator, including simulator software maintenance, model minor plant modifications, and enhancements with minimal support. Functions independently and advises Constellation's Training Department on simulator technology. Coordinate simulator tasks and collaborate across teams as needed. Works closely with the training department, project managers, and Clean Energy Center (CEC) engineers to ensure compliance with project needs. The role is centered on the development and improvement of new and existing features. Additionally, the role involves reviewing peers' code, advocating for standard development methodologies, and participating in an inclusive, energetic, and highly cross-functional team. Expected to work efficiently, independently and with minimal supervision.

Primary Duties and Accountabilities

  • CEC Main Control Room Simulator Projects: Assist in planning, designing, building, or managing of simulator solutions.
  • Assist in creating, modifying, and documenting simulation software logic and dynamic models to meet business needs.
  • Assist with Software configuration management.
  • Assists in evaluating risks and issues that affect the projects.
  • Assist in projects for other CECs in the fleet as required.
  • Engage with business partners to gather information, analyze requirements and deliver practical, efficient and cost-effective solutions that satisfy business needs.
  • Perform other job assignments and duties as directed by management or pursuant to company policy, including but not limited to emergency response, departmental coverage, call outs, and support of outage activities in positions outside the department.

Minimum Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in engineering (chemical, civil/structural, electrical, industrial, mechanical or nuclear) or related science OR
  • Associate's degree in engineering (chemical, civil/structural, electrical, industrial, mechanical or nuclear) or related science) with 2 years of related experience
  • Maintain minimum access requirements or unescorted access requirements, as applicable, and favorable medical examination and/or testing in accordance with position duties

Preferred Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering or nuclear engineering
  • Experience in programming technologies
  • Familiarity with engineering print reading
  • Familiarity with network topology
  • Experience leading or participating in small teams
  • Teamwork and self-motivation skills to achieve success in a rapidly evolving environment
  • Excellent communication skills (written and verbal) for conveying complex findings to non-technical stakeholders
  • Problem-solving and debugging skills

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