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Computer Engineering Entry Level Jobs in Champaign, IL

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Computer Engineering Entry Level information

See Champaign, IL salary details

$48.6K

$121.7K

$137.7K

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

As of May 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for computer engineering entry level in Champaign, IL is $121,693.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $111,700.00 and $131,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 the most commonly searched types of Computer Engineering jobs in Champaign, IL? The most popular types of Computer Engineering jobs in Champaign, IL are:
What job categories do people searching Computer Engineering Entry Level jobs in Champaign, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Computer Engineering Entry Level jobs in Champaign, IL are:
What cities near Champaign, IL are hiring for Computer Engineering Entry Level jobs? Cities near Champaign, IL 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 Champaign, IL as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 18% Part Time, 4% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 75% Physical, and 25% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $121,693 per year, or $58.5 per hour.

Entry-Level Civil Engineer - Pavements

Berriehill Research

Champaign, IL

$65.74K - $77.25K/yr

Full-time

Posted 9 days ago

Job description

ARA is seeking an entry-level civil engineer to work full-time in our Transportation Division, Support Services Directorate, located in Champaign, IL. The Support Services Directorate has been growing our pavement marking consulting and research services and also supports our core business centers on pavement engineering. We are looking for an engineer who is passionate about this type of work.

What you will do as an entry-level civil engineer:

As an entry-level civil engineer in our Support Services Directorate, you may participate in field data collection and analysis (e.g., pavement marking retroreflectivity testing, manual and automated condition surveys, deflection testing, and friction testing), pavement management system implementation, and other pavement/asset infrastructure engineering efforts.

All of our engineers must be able to work both independently and as part of a project team to apply engineering principles, theories, and concepts to job assignments.

Entry-level civil engineer requirements:

  • Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering from an accredited U.S. institution.
  • 2+ years of relevant experience or advanced degree focusing on pavement engineering, pavement design, or pavement evaluation. 
  • Demonstrated understanding of pavement engineering.
  • Strong writing, presentation, and organizational skills.
  • Advanced knowledge of Microsoft Office products.

Entry-level civil engineer preferred knowledge/skills:

  • Pavement marking retroreflectivity and condition assessment and analysis.
  • Geographic information systems (GIS).
  • Asset management (including assets beyond pavements).
  • Statistics and data analysis, including experience with Python, R, or any equivalent statistical software package.

The anticipated salary range for this position is $65,740 to $77,250, depending on education and experience. ARA also offers competitive benefits that address our employees’ needs now and in the future. Learn more about each of our benefits at https://www.ara.com/benefits/.  

About ARA:

ARA is an employee-owned international research and engineering company recognized for providing technically superior solutions to complex and challenging problems in the physical sciences. The company, founded in Albuquerque, NM, in 1979, currently employs more than 2,200 professionals and continues to grow. ARA offices throughout the United States and Canada provide a broad range of technical expertise in civil technologies, computer software and simulation, defense technologies, systems analysis, environmental technologies, and testing and measurement. The corporation also provides sophisticated technical products for pavement analysis, environmental site characterization, and robotics.

At ARA, employees are our greatest assets. The corporation realizes that employee ownership spawns greater creativity and initiative along with higher performance and customer satisfaction levels. ARA gives its employees the tools, training, and opportunities to take more active roles as owners. The culture is challenging; innovation and experimentation are the norm. Employees are eligible for contributions which not only add to the company’s success, but also their own through the Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP). The motto, “Engineering and Science for Fun and Profit” sums up the ARA experience.

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