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Entry Level Aerospace Engineering Jobs in Dunlap, IL

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Entry Level Aerospace Engineering information

See Dunlap, IL salary details

$29.7K

$68.7K

$116.8K

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

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level aerospace engineering 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 typically assists in designing, testing, and evaluating aircraft, spacecraft, satellites, and missiles. They work under the supervision of senior engineers to analyze data, develop technical reports, and support the creation of prototypes. Responsibilities may also include using computer-aided design (CAD) software, performing calculations, and helping ensure projects meet safety and quality standards. This role is ideal for recent graduates looking to gain practical experience in the aerospace industry.

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

To thrive as an Entry Level Aerospace Engineer, you need a solid grasp of engineering principles, mathematics, and physics, typically backed by a bachelor's degree in aerospace or mechanical engineering. Familiarity with CAD software (like CATIA or SolidWorks), MATLAB, and simulation tools is commonly expected, along with knowledge of relevant industry standards. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective teamwork and communication skills help you excel in this collaborative and technically demanding field. These competencies are vital for designing safe, innovative aerospace systems and contributing effectively to multidisciplinary project teams.

What types of projects and responsibilities can I expect as an entry level aerospace engineer?

As an entry-level aerospace engineer, you will typically support senior engineers on projects such as designing, testing, and analyzing aircraft or spacecraft components. Your daily tasks may include creating CAD models, running simulations, reviewing technical documentation, and participating in team meetings to discuss project progress. Collaboration is common, as you'll work closely with multidisciplinary teams, including mechanical, electrical, and software engineers. Over time, you may take on more complex assignments and gradually increase your responsibility within the team.

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

AspectEntry Level Aerospace EngineeringAerospace Technician
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in aerospace or mechanical engineeringAssociate's degree or technical certification
Work EnvironmentDesign, analysis, and development in offices or labsHands-on assembly, maintenance, and testing in labs or manufacturing facilities
Employer & Industry UsageEngineering firms, aerospace companies, government agenciesManufacturers, maintenance facilities, aerospace service providers
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding entry-level engineering roles in aerospaceTechnical roles supporting aerospace systems

Entry Level Aerospace Engineering focuses on designing and analyzing aerospace systems, requiring a bachelor's degree. Aerospace Technicians perform hands-on maintenance and testing, often with technical certifications. Both roles are essential in the aerospace industry but differ in education, responsibilities, and work environment.

Does NASA hire entry-level aerospace engineers?

NASA hires entry-level aerospace engineers through competitive internship and recent graduate programs, often requiring a relevant degree in aerospace or mechanical engineering and knowledge of tools like CAD and MATLAB. These positions provide opportunities for new graduates to gain experience in spacecraft design, aerodynamics, and propulsion systems.

Is it hard to get hired as an entry level aerospace engineer?

Entry level aerospace engineering positions can be competitive, often requiring a relevant bachelor's degree, strong technical skills, and internships or project experience. Employers look for candidates with knowledge of CAD software, aerodynamics, and basic systems analysis, but the hiring process generally favors those with practical experience and a solid academic background.

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Aerospace Engineering jobs in Dunlap, IL?

For Entry Level Aerospace Engineering jobs in Dunlap, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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

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

Entry Level Aerospace Engineering jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Aerospace Engineering job openings in Dunlap, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 84% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 11% 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.

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