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Data Engineer Entry Level Jobs in Peoria, IL (NOW HIRING)

RFA Engineering

Quality/Test Engineer

Chillicothe, IL · On-site

$70K - $95K/yr

We are seeking an entry level to experienced candidate to become an integral part of our ... Collect, analyze, and interpret test data to evaluate product performance, reliability, and ...

RFA Engineering

Electrical Engineer

Chillicothe, IL · On-site

$70K - $105K/yr

Bachelor's of Science in Electrical Engineering or related field. * Entry level candidates and ... Experience with data acquisition systems and measurement equipment. * Experience with manufacturing ...

All JobsData Engineer JobsData Engineer Entry Level JobsData Engineer Entry Level Jobs in Peoria, IL

Data Engineer Entry Level information

See Peoria, IL salary details

$43.7K

$127.3K

$174.2K

How much do data engineer entry level jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for data engineer entry level in Peoria, IL is $127,283.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $112,400.00 and $134,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some typical projects or tasks that entry-level data engineers work on during their first year?

As an entry-level data engineer, you can expect to work on tasks such as building and maintaining data pipelines, cleaning and transforming raw data, and supporting the integration of different data sources. You'll often collaborate with data analysts and more senior engineers to ensure data is accurate, accessible, and well-documented. Early projects might include automating data extraction processes, setting up basic ETL (Extract, Transform, Load) workflows, or optimizing database queries. These foundational responsibilities help build the technical and teamwork skills essential for career growth in data engineering.

Can I get a data engineer entry level job with no experience?

Entry-level data engineering positions typically require some knowledge of programming languages like Python or SQL, as well as familiarity with data tools and platforms such as Hadoop or Spark. While prior work experience is not always mandatory, having relevant coursework, certifications, or internships can improve your chances of securing an entry-level role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level data engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Data Engineer, you need foundational knowledge in programming (such as Python or SQL), data structures, and database management, often supported by a degree in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with ETL tools, cloud platforms (like AWS or Azure), and version control systems is typically expected. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication help you collaborate with teams and adapt to evolving data needs. These skills ensure accurate data processing, efficient pipeline development, and successful integration within data-driven organizations.

What does a data engineer entry level do?

An entry-level data engineer is responsible for designing, building, and maintaining systems that allow organizations to collect, store, and analyze large amounts of data. They typically work with databases, data pipelines, and cloud platforms to ensure data is accessible and reliable for analysis. Entry-level data engineers often assist with cleaning and transforming raw data, automating data workflows, and supporting data scientists and analysts. They also learn best practices in data security and performance optimization as they gain experience.

What is the difference between Data Engineer Entry Level vs Data Analyst Entry Level?

AspectData Engineer Entry LevelData Analyst Entry Level
Required CredentialsBachelor's in CS, IT, or related field; some certifications (e.g., Google Cloud, AWS)Bachelor's in Statistics, Math, or related field; certifications like Microsoft Data Analyst
Work EnvironmentFocus on building data pipelines, databases, and infrastructureFocus on interpreting data, creating reports, and visualizations
Employer & Industry UsageTech companies, finance, healthcare, where data infrastructure is keyBusiness intelligence, marketing, finance, and consulting firms

While both roles involve working with data, Data Engineer Entry Level focuses on developing and maintaining data infrastructure, whereas Data Analyst Entry Level emphasizes analyzing data to generate insights. Both roles require strong technical skills and are essential in data-driven organizations.

What are the most commonly searched types of Data Engineer jobs in Peoria, IL? The most popular types of Data Engineer jobs in Peoria, IL are:
What job categories do people searching Data Engineer Entry Level jobs in Peoria, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Data Engineer Entry Level jobs in Peoria, IL are:
What cities near Peoria, IL are hiring for Data Engineer Entry Level jobs? Cities near Peoria, IL with the most Data Engineer Entry Level job openings:
Data Engineer Entry Level jobs near you
Infographic showing various Data Engineer Entry Level job openings in Peoria, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 87% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $127,283 per year, or $61.2 per hour.

Quality/Test Engineer

RFA Engineering

Chillicothe, IL • On-site

$70K - $95K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 22 days ago

Job description

RFA Engineering (www.rfamec.com) is an engineering service provider dedicated to delivering our clients with timely engineering support and expertise. We are seeking an entry level to experienced candidate to become an integral part of our engineering team. The selected candidate will work with an experienced engineering staff using state-of-the-art engineering tools & processes. This position will operate onsite at our customer's world-class engineering and manufacturing facilities.
This is a full-time position with a full benefit package listed below that includes opportunities for professional growth, direct hire by our customers, and additional opportunities within our own organization.
Quality/Test Engineer
The selected candidate will work with an experienced engineering staff supporting quality, validation, testing, reliability, and continuous improvement activities associated with engines, powertrain systems, cast components, and off-highway construction and mining equipment. Work may involve laboratory testing, machine testing, failure analysis, root cause investigations, product validation, manufacturing quality support, and supplier quality activities. The work will be highly collaborative with engineering, manufacturing, validation, quality, and supplier teams.
Responsibilities
  • Support quality, validation, and testing activities for engine, powertrain, and off-highway equipment programs.
  • Develop and execute test plans, test procedures, and validation activities.
  • Collect, analyze, and interpret test data to evaluate product performance, reliability, and durability.
  • Investigate product, component, and system failures and perform root cause analysis.
  • Support prototype, pilot, and production build activities.
  • Work with engineering, manufacturing, and supplier teams to resolve quality concerns.
  • Support APQP activities, FMEA development, and product validation processes.
  • Participate in product improvement, cost reduction, and product health initiatives.
  • Support reliability, durability, and performance testing activities.
  • Create and maintain test documentation, reports, and quality records.
  • Collaborate with suppliers and internal teams to implement corrective and preventive actions.
  • Support factory operations through troubleshooting and quality improvement activities.
  • Travel to supplier or customer sites pending project needs (up to ~10%).

Requirements
  • Bachelor's of Science in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or related technical field.
  • Entry level candidates and experienced candidates will be considered.
  • Strong analytical, troubleshooting, and problem-solving skills.
  • Excellent communication both written and verbal.
  • Demonstrated ability to meet deadlines and commitments.
  • Ability to thrive in a team environment.
  • Ability to travel (less than 10% of time).

Desired Attributes
  • Experience with APQP (Advanced Product Quality Planning).
  • Experience with FMEA, root cause analysis, and corrective action processes.
  • Experience with validation, testing, reliability, or quality engineering activities.
  • Experience with data collection and test data analysis.
  • Experience supporting manufacturing operations and production environments.
  • Experience with quality systems and continuous improvement methodologies.
  • Exposure to engines, powertrain systems, off-road equipment, heavy machinery, or industrial products.
  • Experience working with suppliers and cross-functional teams.
  • Desire to work in an engineering environment focused on product quality, reliability, and performance.

Visa sponsorship is NOT available for this position.
Pay Range: $70,000-$95,000 - Commensurate with experience
About RFA Engineering
RFA Engineering has provided product development and engineering services to industry leading customers since 1943. Our primary focus is the development of off highway equipment including agricultural, construction, mining, recreational, industrial, and special machines. Our work includes concept development, product design, documentation, problem-solving, simulation, optimization, and testing of components, systems and complete machines. Our engineering staff is located at our Engineering Center in Minneapolis, branch office in Dubuque, IA, and at numerous customer sites throughout the U.S.
Competitive Benefits
  • Health and Dental Insurance
  • Health Savings Account
  • TelaDoc: Virtual Health Care
  • Vision Insurance
  • Company Paid / Supplemental Life Insurance
  • Company Paid Long-Term Disability
  • Supplemental Short-Term Disability
  • Retirement Savings Account (Traditional 401k & Roth 401k)
  • Flexible Spending Plan Dependent Care
  • Bonus Plan (Exempt Employees Only)
  • Paid Time Off (PTO)
  • Paid Holidays
  • Bereavement Leave
  • Employee Assistance Programs (EAP)
  • Education Assistance

Equal Opportunity and Veteran Friendly
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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