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Entry Level Aerospace Engineer Jobs in Dunlap, IL

Entry Level Aerospace Engineer information

See Dunlap, IL salary details

$29.7K

$68.7K

$116.8K

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

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level aerospace engineer in Dunlap, IL is $68,664.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $51,000.00 and $77,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an entry level aerospace engineer do?

An entry-level aerospace engineer works with a team of senior staff members to develop and design aircraft or spacecraft, depending on their specialization. Your responsibilities in this career include supporting other engineers to ensure that the product or prototype meets the necessary safety and environmental regulations. Your duties involve troubleshooting any problems with the project and evaluating its financial and practical feasibility. You can find entry-level aerospace engineer positions in both the private and public sectors, with jobs available in manufacturing and R&D services.

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

To thrive as an Entry Level Aerospace Engineer, you need a solid background in aerospace or mechanical engineering, strong mathematical and analytical skills, and a relevant bachelor's degree. Familiarity with CAD software, finite element analysis tools, and industry-specific standards is typically required. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective teamwork and communication skills help set you apart in this role. These skills are crucial for designing safe, efficient aerospace systems and collaborating effectively on complex engineering projects.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level aerospace engineers, and how can they overcome them?

Entry level aerospace engineers often encounter challenges such as adapting to complex technical projects, learning specialized software tools, and understanding rigorous industry standards. It can also be daunting to work on multidisciplinary teams where clear communication is essential. To overcome these hurdles, new engineers should actively seek mentorship, participate in training programs, and take initiative in asking questions. Building strong relationships with colleagues and being open to feedback will help accelerate professional growth and integration into the team.

What is the difference between Entry Level Aerospace Engineer vs Aerospace Technician?

AspectEntry Level Aerospace EngineerAerospace Technician
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in aerospace or mechanical engineeringAssociate's degree or technical certification
Work EnvironmentDesign, analysis, and development in offices and labsTesting, assembly, and maintenance in labs and manufacturing facilities
Employer & Industry UsagePrimarily in aerospace design firms, government agencies, and manufacturingManufacturers, maintenance facilities, and testing centers
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Entry Level Aerospace Engineers focus on designing and analyzing aircraft and spacecraft, requiring a bachelor's degree. Aerospace Technicians assist in testing and maintenance, typically with technical certifications. Both roles are essential in the aerospace industry but differ in education, responsibilities, and work environment.

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Aerospace Engineer jobs in Dunlap, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Aerospace Engineer jobs in Dunlap, IL are:

What cities near Dunlap, IL are hiring for Entry Level Aerospace Engineer jobs?

Cities near Dunlap, IL with the most Entry Level Aerospace Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Aerospace Engineer job openings in Dunlap, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 84% Physical, 6% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $68,664 per year, or $33 per hour.

Sr. Embedded Software Engineer

RFA Engineering

Chillicothe, IL • On-site

$100K - $120K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 7 days ago


Job description

RFA Engineering ( 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 facility.
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.
Sr. Embedded Software Engineer
This selected candidate will apply the principles of computer science and mathematical analysis to the design, development, testing, and evaluation of the embedded software and systems that make computers work. A typical embedded software engineer researches, designs, develops and tests operating systems-level software, compilers, and network distribution software for medical, industrial, military, communications, aerospace, business, scientific and general computing applications.
Responsibilities
  • Design and implement software of embedded devices and systems from requirements to production and commercial deployment for product lines.
  • Review project requests describing database user needs to estimate time and cost required to accomplish project.
  • Develop, debug, and validate embedded software for real-time control systems and machine applications.
  • Participate in software architecture, design reviews, and code reviews to ensure quality and maintainability.
  • Integrate software with sensors, actuators, communication networks, and other electronic control systems.
  • Troubleshoot and resolve software, hardware, and system-level issues identified during development and testing.
  • Create and maintain technical documentation, including software requirements, design specifications, and test plans.

Requirements
  • BS in Software, Computer, Electrical, or other relevant Engineering degree.
  • Experience with C or C++ development.
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills.
  • Self-motivated, quick learner, with an any-problem-can-be-solved attitude.
  • Good organizational and time management skills.
  • Ability to identify needed actions and act to resolve issues.
  • Ability to communicate technical information effectively.
  • Ability to thrive in a team environment.
  • Must have a valid Driver's License.

Desired Attributes
  • Experience with CAN J1939 & LIN communication protocols.
  • Experience with Simulink/Matlab Model Based Software Design.
  • Experience with GitHub or similar version control systems.
  • General machine knowledge of vehicles, mobile equipment, or heavy equipment.
  • Able to read/understand electrical schematics.
  • Experience with embedded controls or machine control systems.
  • Experience with Agile software development processes.
  • Desire to work in an engineering environment focused on advanced machine control technologies.

Visa sponsorship is NOT available for this position.
Pay Range: $100,000-$120,000 - 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.