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Computational Engineer Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Computational Biologist

Chicago, IL · On-site

$130K - $163K/yr

PhD in bioinformatics, computer science, statistics, computational biology, biomedical engineering ... or a related quantitative discipline. * Minimum 2 years of experience in developing bioinformatic ...

PhD in bioinformatics, computer science, statistics, computational biology, biomedical engineering ... or a related quantitative discipline. * Minimum 2 years of experience in developing bioinformatic ...

Computational Designer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$70K - $85K/yr

Thornton Tomasetti applies engineering and scientific principles to solve the world's challenges ... Your Role As a Computational Designer & Visualization Specialist in our Chicago office, you will ...

Computational Chemist / Cheminformatician: Help steer the development of our tool to make it ... You'll work closely with our AI team and the front-end developers to connect the dots and make our ...

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Computational Engineer information

See Illinois salary details

$47K

$117.8K

$133.2K

How much do computational engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for computational engineer in Illinois is $117,751.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $108,000.00 and $127,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a computational engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Computational Engineer, you need a strong background in mathematics, physics, computer science, and engineering principles, typically supported by a relevant degree. Proficiency in programming languages (such as Python, C++, or MATLAB), experience with simulation software (like ANSYS or COMSOL), and familiarity with high-performance computing environments are essential. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication skills help set top performers apart in this field. These skills are crucial for developing accurate models, optimizing complex systems, and effectively collaborating in multidisciplinary teams.

What is a computational engineer?

A computational engineer is a professional who uses advanced computing techniques and mathematical models to solve complex engineering problems. They develop simulations, algorithms, and software to analyze and optimize systems in fields such as aerospace, automotive, civil engineering, and more. Their work often involves programming, data analysis, and applying principles from physics and mathematics to create efficient solutions. Computational engineers bridge the gap between traditional engineering and computer science, enabling innovation through technology.

How does a computational engineer typically collaborate with multidisciplinary teams on complex projects?

Computational Engineers frequently work alongside professionals from various disciplines such as mechanical engineers, data scientists, and software developers. Effective collaboration often involves translating engineering problems into computational models, communicating technical requirements, and integrating simulation results into broader project workflows. Regular meetings, shared documentation, and collaborative software tools are commonly used to ensure alignment and progress. This team-based approach helps deliver accurate and actionable insights for product design, optimization, or research objectives.

What do computational engineers do?

Computational engineers develop and apply mathematical models, algorithms, and simulations to solve complex engineering problems. They often use programming languages and software tools to analyze data, optimize systems, and support design processes across various industries such as aerospace, automotive, and energy.

How much do computational engineers make?

Computational engineers typically earn a median salary ranging from $80,000 to $120,000 annually, depending on experience, education, and industry. Senior roles or those with specialized skills in programming, simulation, or data analysis can command higher salaries, especially in high-demand sectors like aerospace, defense, or technology companies.

What is the difference between Computational Engineer vs Software Engineer?

AspectComputational EngineerSoftware Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Engineering, Computer Science, or related fields; knowledge of programming and numerical methodsBachelor's or Master's in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or related fields; strong programming skills
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, engineering firms, tech companies; often involves simulation and modelingTech companies, startups, software firms; focuses on application development and system design
Industry UsageEngineering, aerospace, automotive, scientific researchIT, software development, technology services

Computational Engineers and Software Engineers share programming skills and work in tech-related environments. However, Computational Engineers focus more on applying computational methods to engineering problems, simulations, and modeling, while Software Engineers primarily develop software applications and systems. Both roles require strong technical backgrounds but serve different industry needs.

What job categories do people searching Computational Engineer jobs in Illinois look for? The top searched job categories for Computational Engineer jobs in Illinois are:
What cities in Illinois are hiring for Computational Engineer jobs? Cities in Illinois with the most Computational Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Computational Engineer job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $117,751 per year, or $56.6 per hour.

Computational Biologist

The University of Chicago

Chicago, IL • On-site

$60K - $80K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 6 days ago


University Of Chicago rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 47 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

155th of 615 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Department
BSD MED - Genetic Medicine - Im Research Staff
About the Department
The Section of Genetic Medicine shape the future of personalized medicine with successful research programs focused on the quantitative genetic and genomic science. The Section provides extremely valuable collaborations with investigators in the Department of Medicine who are seeking to develop new and more powerful ways to identify genetic risk factors for common, complex disorders with almost immediate clinical application.
The Section of Genetic Medicine conducts impactful investigations focused on quantitative genetics, systems biology and genomics, bioinformatics and computational biology as well as through extensive collaborations of the faculty throughout the Department of Medicine, Biological Sciences Division and the University of Chicago.
Job Summary
We are seeking a lifelong learner interested in developing statistical and computational tools to sift through large amounts of data to make discoveries that can improve human health. The Computational Biologist will contribute to the development and application of statistical and computational tools across NIH-funded projects, integrating large-scale GWAS with metabolomics data to uncover mechanisms underlying complex diseases and developing polygenic risk scores that transfer genetic signals across human populations and model organisms to study addiction-related traits, COPD, type 2 diabetes, and other common diseases.
Responsibilities
  • Analyze large-scale genomic datasets including RNA-seq, whole genome sequence, and single-cell data.
  • Develop and apply statistical and computational methods to extract biological insights from high-dimensional data.
  • Develop and train deep learning models to improve upon traditional statistical methods in genomics.
  • Collaborate with disease and genomics experts to address pressing biomedical research questions.
  • Write and contribute to scientific publications and present findings at lab and consortium meetings.
  • Help train and mentor students in the lab.
  • Applies research principles and relevant subject matter knowledge relevant to administer a research project. With a moderate level of direction, manages lab and/or research-related duties and tasks. Helps develop, design and conduct research projects according to plan.
  • Takes responsibility for the following laboratory duties: recognizing abnormal results and varying conditions or procedures to correct problems; setting up and performing experiments. Analyze the meaning, significance, causes, and effects of the subject.
  • Performs other related work as needed.

Minimum Qualifications
Education:
Minimum requirements include a college or university degree in related field.
Work Experience:
Minimum requirements include knowledge and skills developed through 2-5 years of work experience in a related job discipline.
Certifications:
---
Preferred Qualifications
Education:
  • Master's or doctoral degree in computational biology, bioinformatics, statistics, physics, or other quantitative disciplines with an interest in applying skills to biomedical research.

Experience:
  • Experience with deep learning in genomics and large language models.
  • Experience with large datasets, distributed computing, and databases.
  • Reproducible research tools and workflows (GitHub, Snakemake, Nextflow).
  • Proficiency in R and/or Python.

Preferred Competencies
  • Strong Analytical skills.
  • Problem-solving skills.
  • Organizational skills.
  • Verbal and written communication skills.
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team
  • Willingness to explore and adopt new ideas and technologies.
  • Analytical, statistical, quantitative, and computational/programming skills.

Application Documents
  • Resume (required)
  • Cover Letter (required)

When applying, the document(s) MUST be uploaded via the My Experience page, in the section titled Application Documents of the application.
Job Family
Research
Role Impact
Individual Contributor
Scheduled Weekly Hours
40
Drug Test Required
No
Health Screen Required
No
Motor Vehicle Record Inquiry Required
No
Pay Rate Type
Salary
FLSA Status
Exempt
Pay Range
$60,000.00 - $80,000.00
The included pay rate or range represents the University's good faith estimate of the possible compensation offer for this role at the time of posting.
Benefits Eligible
Yes
The University of Chicago offers a wide range of benefits programs and resources for eligible employees, including health, retirement, and paid time off. Information about the benefit offerings can be found in the Benefits Guidebook.
Posting Statement
The University of Chicago is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, or expression, national or ethnic origin, shared ancestry, age, status as an individual with a disability, military or veteran status, genetic information, or other protected classes under the law. For additional information please see the University's Notice of Nondiscrimination.
Job seekers in need of a reasonable accommodation to complete the application process should call 773-702-5800 or submit a request via Applicant Inquiry Form.
All offers of employment are contingent upon a background check that includes a review of conviction history. A conviction does not automatically preclude University employment. Rather, the University considers conviction information on a case-by-case basis and assesses the nature of the offense, the circumstances surrounding it, the proximity in time of the conviction, and its relevance to the position.
The University of Chicago's Annual Security & Fire Safety Report (Report) provides information about University offices and programs that provide safety support, crime and fire statistics, emergency response and communications plans, and other policies and information. The Report can be accessed online at: http://securityreport.uchicago.edu. Paper copies of the Report are available, upon request, from the University of Chicago Police Department, 850 E. 61st Street, Chicago, IL 60637.

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