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Computer Engineering Entry Level Jobs in Illinois

dbHMS

Entry Level Mechanical Engineer

Chicago, IL · Hybrid

$60K - $70K/yr

... an  Entry Level Mechanical Engineer . This role will support the engineering of systems for a ... Operate computer software such as Microsoft Office programs to perform engineering tasks. * Assist ...

dbHMS

Entry Level Mechanical Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$60K - $70K/yr

Our Design Studio team, in our Chicago office is seeking an Entry Level Mechanical Engineer . This ... Operate computer software such as Microsoft Office programs to perform engineering tasks. * Assist ...

Johnsonelectric

Application Engineer

Vandalia, IL · On-site +1

Bachelor's degree in mechanical or electrical engineering or a related field. * 1+ years of experience (open to entry-level candidates with relevant education and internships). * Proficiency in CAD ...

iCONN Systems

Be Seen First

Design Engineer I (Entry-Level / Draftsman)

Lombard, IL · On-site

$50K - $65K/yr

Engineering Manager POSITION OVERVIEW The Design Engineer I is an entry-level engineering role and ... 3D CAD platform. • Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings and apply basic GD&T ...

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All JobsComputer Engineering JobsComputer Engineering Entry Level JobsComputer Engineering Entry Level Jobs in Illinois

Computer Engineering Entry Level information

See Illinois salary details

$47K

$117.8K

$133.2K

How much do computer engineering entry level jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for computer engineering entry level 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 do entry-level computer engineers do?

Entry-level computer engineers assist in designing, developing, and testing computer hardware and software systems. They often work under supervision to troubleshoot issues, write code, and learn industry tools like programming languages and development environments. This role provides foundational experience for more advanced engineering tasks and may require knowledge of coding, circuit design, or system analysis.

What engineer makes $500,000 a year?

While most entry-level computer engineering roles do not pay this amount, highly experienced engineers in specialized fields such as software architecture, machine learning, or executive-level technical leadership can earn $500,000 or more annually, often through a combination of salary, bonuses, and stock options. Achieving this level typically requires extensive experience, advanced skills, and working in high-paying industries like technology or finance.

Is earning $70,000 out of college with an engineering degree good?

For an entry-level computer engineering position, a salary of $70,000 is generally considered competitive and above the national average in many regions. Factors such as location, industry, and company size can influence salary expectations, and additional skills like programming languages or certifications can impact earning potential.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Computer Engineering Entry Level professional, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Computer Engineering Entry Level professional, you need a solid understanding of computer hardware, programming languages (such as C/C++ or Python), and a relevant bachelor's degree in computer engineering or a related field. Familiarity with version control systems (like Git), hardware description languages (such as VHDL or Verilog), and basic circuit design tools is commonly expected. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective teamwork set standout candidates apart. These skills and qualities ensure you can contribute to technical projects, quickly learn new systems, and collaborate effectively in multidisciplinary engineering environments.

What types of projects and responsibilities can an entry-level computer engineer expect in their first year?

As an entry-level computer engineer, you can expect to work on a variety of tasks such as assisting in the design, testing, and troubleshooting of hardware or software components. Typical responsibilities include writing and debugging code, assembling and testing hardware prototypes, and collaborating with more experienced engineers on larger projects. You'll likely be assigned smaller modules within a project to help you build technical skills while becoming familiar with company tools and processes. Teamwork is common, and you'll often work closely with cross-functional teams like software developers, hardware designers, and quality assurance specialists.

What is the difference between Computer Engineering Entry Level vs Software Developer Entry Level?

AspectComputer Engineering Entry LevelSoftware Developer Entry Level
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Computer Engineering or related fieldBachelor's in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or related field
Work EnvironmentHardware labs, embedded systems, software developmentApplication development, coding, testing in office or remote
Employer & Industry UsageTech companies, manufacturing, embedded systems firmsSoftware firms, tech startups, IT departments
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding entry-level roles in hardware/software integrationComparing entry-level software development roles

Computer Engineering Entry Level roles focus on both hardware and software aspects, often involving embedded systems and hardware design. In contrast, Software Developer Entry Level positions primarily involve coding, application development, and software testing. Both roles require a bachelor's degree in a related field and are common in tech industries, but they differ in work environment and daily tasks.

What are entry-level computer engineering jobs?

Entry-level computer engineering jobs are positions for recent graduates or individuals with limited work experience in the field. These roles typically involve assisting in the design, development, testing, and maintenance of computer hardware and software systems. Common job titles include Junior Computer Engineer, Hardware Engineer, Software Engineer, and Systems Analyst. Entry-level engineers often work under the supervision of senior staff, gaining practical experience while contributing to various technology projects.

What tech jobs pay $400,000 a year?

In computer engineering, high-paying roles such as senior software engineers, technical leads, and engineering managers at large tech companies can reach or exceed $400,000 annually, especially with bonuses and stock options. These positions typically require extensive experience, advanced skills in programming, system design, and leadership, often involving work in cloud computing, AI, or cybersecurity environments.
What are the most commonly searched types of Computer Engineering jobs in Illinois? The most popular types of Computer Engineering jobs in Illinois are:
What are popular job titles related to Computer Engineering Entry Level jobs in Illinois? For Computer Engineering Entry Level jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Computer Engineering Entry Level jobs in Illinois look for? The top searched job categories for Computer Engineering Entry Level jobs in Illinois are:
What cities in Illinois are hiring for Computer Engineering Entry Level jobs? Cities in Illinois with the most Computer Engineering Entry Level job openings:
Computer Engineering Entry Level jobs near you
Infographic showing various Computer Engineering Entry Level job openings in Illinois as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, and 33% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $117,751 per year, or $56.6 per hour.

Associate Engineer 2026 - immediate start

CTC Lateral - Website & LinkedIn

Chicago, IL

Other

Re-posted 21 days ago

Job description

Are you excited to play an important role in building next generation trading infrastructure and applications? Do you thrive in an innovative environment? If so, we encourage you to consider CTC!

The Role:

We are looking for talented and motivated software engineers to join our engineering teams in designing, coding, and testing sophisticated trading tools and risk applications. These distributed real-time systems will require you to have a deep understanding of computer science concepts, strong software development skills and methodology, and effective communication and collaboration abilities. Software development cycles at CTC are short and releases of proprietary software are frequent. In this fast-paced and dynamic team environment, our engineers quickly see the results of their effort, and the impact it has on our businesses. Engineers will also have exposure to trading through our combined trading and technology curriculum which includes a shadow on one of our trading desks.

What it means to be successful:

  • You can apply understanding of data structures, algorithms, and multi-threading concepts to real-world problems
  • You are curious about options trading, pricing and risk management. No prior knowledge or experience in finance is needed
  • You are highly motivated, humble, and collaborative
  • You thrive in a team-based environment filled with driven people that value a healthy work-life balance
  • You effectively communicate ideas, both written and verbal, that showcase your analytical skills
  • You seek constructive feedback to grow your capabilities

What We're Looking For:

  • Strong foundation in an object oriented programming language gained through coursework, internships, or entry-level positions (C++ preferred) 
  • Completed or pursuing a Bachelor's or Master's degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering or a similar field
  • A proven record of success (academics, awards, etc.)
  • Willing to relocate to Chicago, IL or New York, NY

Why should you consider a career at CTC?

  • Have a place in a fast-growing, industry-leading global technology company
  • Excellent growth potential
  • Opportunity to work with and learn from forward-thinking leaders in our industry
  • Collaborative team environment that rewards contributions, innovative thinking, and solution-orientation
  • Competitive pay and comprehensive benefits package including free breakfast and lunch (and healthy snacks of course!) as well as onsite biometric testing and fitness center membership

Apply