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Associate Software Development Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL

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SDET Consultant

Chicago, IL · On-site

$51.50 - $66.50/hr

Senior Software Development Engineer in Test (SDET) Duration: 6-18 months Work Mode: Onsite Location: Chicago, IL Purpose We are seeking a Senior Software Development Engineer in Test (SDET) to ...

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All JobsAssociate Software Development Engineer JobsAssociate Software Development Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL

Associate Software Development Engineer information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$20

$43

$101

How much do associate software development engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for associate software development engineer in Chicago, IL is $43.50, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $31.44 and $46.06 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an associate software development engineer?

Associate Software Development Engineers are entry-level professionals who assist in designing, developing, testing, and maintaining software applications. They typically work under the guidance of senior developers, contributing to coding, debugging, and documenting software projects. This role serves as a foundational position in a software engineering career, providing opportunities to learn industry best practices and collaborate with experienced team members. Associate Software Development Engineers often participate in code reviews, troubleshoot issues, and help ensure that software meets quality and performance standards.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an associate software development engineer?

To thrive as an Associate Software Development Engineer, you need a solid grasp of programming languages (such as Java, Python, or C++), algorithms, and data structures, often supported by a bachelor's degree in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with integrated development environments (IDEs), version control systems like Git, and basic software development lifecycle methodologies is typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, a willingness to learn, and effective teamwork set standout candidates apart. These skills and qualities are vital for building reliable software, adapting to evolving technologies, and collaborating in dynamic development teams.

What are some common challenges faced by associate software development engineers when joining a new team?

Associate Software Development Engineers often encounter challenges such as adapting to established codebases, understanding team workflows, and getting acquainted with company-specific development tools. It can take time to become comfortable with version control systems, code review processes, and agile methodologies commonly used by development teams. Building effective communication with senior engineers and learning to balance independent problem-solving with seeking guidance are also key aspects of the initial learning curve.

What is the difference between Associate Software Development Engineer vs Software Development Engineer?

AspectAssociate Software Development EngineerSoftware Development Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in CS or related field, some internshipsBachelor's or higher in CS, more experience preferred
Work EnvironmentEntry-level, team-based projects, training programsMore complex projects, increased responsibility
Employer & Industry UsageTech companies, startups, large corporationsSame as Associate role, with more senior positions
Search & Comparison IntentEntry-level roles, career progressionMid-level roles, career growth

The main difference between an Associate Software Development Engineer and a Software Development Engineer lies in experience and responsibility. The Associate role is typically entry-level, focusing on learning and supporting projects, while the SDE has more experience and handles more complex tasks. Both roles are common in tech companies and serve as stepping stones in a software engineering career.

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Associate Software Development Engineer jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Associate Software Development Engineer job openings:

Associate Software Development Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Associate Software Development Engineer job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 18% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 86% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $90,485 per year, or $43.5 per hour.

Software Development Engineer

Nidec Corporation

Saint Charles, IL • On-site

Full-time

Posted 7 days ago

Nidec rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 52 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

315th of 499 rated machine equipment manufacturers

Job description

We begin with dreams. Dreams drive our motivation. Dreams are our future. The world's dreams, people's dreams, our dreams. Our passion creates ideas that make dreams come alive. Technology and products that were only dreams become reality.
All for dreams. Dreams challenge and the Nidec-Group will continue to meet the challenge. For the world's and people's tomorrows; the world's first, the world's best technologies and products; we will continue our part in creating a better society.
Job Summary
Objective
The Software Development Engineer I develops embedded software by following defined ASPICE processes as directed by the Software Development on a program.
Essential Responsibilities
• Assists the Software Development Project Leader in design and development as an active member of the team.
• Writes and modifies software documentation (incl. Requirements, design documents and test specifications)
• Implements code as directed by the Software Development Project Leader.
• Fixes bugs/problems in code during the development and maintenance phases and modifies corresponding documentation.
• Creates test cases, executes tests and logs the defects.
• Updates the status of issues in the problem tracking system.
• Coordinates with laboratory personnel on the testing of prototypes.
• Collaborates with production to achieve safe launches of programs and maintain existing ones.
Experience: 0 - 1+ years of software development engineering experience (embedded focus preferred).
Education: Bachelor's degree in Electronics Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or an equivalent technical field.
Knowledge/Skills/Abilities -
Required -
• Strong foundation in embedded programming using C or C++ for 8-bit, 16-bit, and 32-bit microcontroller target environments
• Proficiency using lab equipment (e.g., Oscilloscopes, Logic analyzers, Function generators)
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Power Point)
• Experience with software version control systems (e.g., Git)
Optional Skills (Not mandatory, knowledge on any of the following is a plus)
• Experience with Python / any scripting language
• Familiarity with Modeling / SW design tools (Doxygen, or UML tools)
• Familiarity with the Atlassian Suite tools (Bitbucket, Jira, Confluence)
• Familiarity with deploying software via continuous integration and continuous delivery (CI/CD) pipelines (e.g., Jenkins)
NOTE: This position Is Not open to external sourcing (Recruiting agencies)
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.
Job Description
Additional Job Details
Equal Employment Opportunity and Affirmative Action at Nidec
Nidec is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) and Affirmative Action Employer encouraging diversity in the workplace. All qualified applicants receive consideration for employment without regard to their age, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, genetic information, religious creed, national origin, physical or mental disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. For more information regarding your (EEO) rights as an applicant, please visit the following website: http://www1.eeoc.gov/employers/upload/eeoc_self_print_poster.pdf
Work Shift Schedule
First Shift (United States of America)
No Soliciting
Nidec will not accept unsolicited resumes from individual recruiters or third party recruiting agencies in response to Nidec job postings. No fee will be paid to third parties who submit unsolicited candidates directly to our hiring managers. Pre-approval from the Nidec Talent Acquisition team is required before any external candidate can be submitted and such candidate must be submitted to the Nidec Talent Acquisition team.

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