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Entry Level Applications Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL

Cadence

Application Engineer

Cary, IL · On-site

$74K - $137K/yr

This is an entry level rotational position for STEM bachelor level graduates who have limited ... applications used for Digital Design/Simulation, Physical Design, Analog Layout, Advanced ...

Jobtailor

Software Engineer - Entry Level

Chicago, IL · On-site

$90 - $130/hr

Design, implement, and debug complex low-latency trading applications * Balance optimization and ... C++ Programming * C# Programming * Java Programming * Software Development Lifecycle ATS ...

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All JobsApplications Engineer JobsEntry Level Applications Engineer JobsEntry Level Applications Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL

Entry Level Applications Engineer information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$52K

$114K

$156.6K

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

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level applications engineer in Chicago, IL is $114,036.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $86,500.00 and $139,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an entry level applications engineer do?

An Entry Level Applications Engineer assists in designing, developing, and supporting software or hardware applications for customers. They work closely with sales and engineering teams to understand client requirements and help implement technical solutions. Their responsibilities often include troubleshooting, providing technical support, and ensuring that applications meet customer needs. This role is a great starting point for gaining hands-on experience in both engineering and customer-facing environments.

What does collaboration typically look like for an entry level applications engineer within a project team?

As an Entry Level Applications Engineer, collaboration is central to your daily responsibilities. You’ll work closely with senior engineers, product managers, and sometimes directly with customers to understand requirements and develop solutions. Regular team meetings, code reviews, and joint troubleshooting sessions are standard, providing valuable learning opportunities and exposure to different technical perspectives. This collaborative environment helps you build both technical and communication skills, while also giving you insight into how products evolve from concept to deployment.

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

To thrive as an Entry Level Applications Engineer, you typically need a bachelor’s degree in engineering or a related field, strong analytical skills, and foundational knowledge in programming or technical problem-solving. Familiarity with CAD software, programming languages (such as Python or C++), and simulation tools is often expected, along with exposure to industry-specific platforms. Effective communication, teamwork, and a willingness to learn are essential soft skills that help you collaborate with clients and cross-functional teams. These skills and qualities are crucial for efficiently delivering technical solutions that meet client needs and contribute to successful project outcomes.

What is the difference between Entry Level Applications Engineer vs Junior Mechanical Engineer?

AspectEntry Level Applications EngineerJunior Mechanical Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Engineering, technical skills, some certificationsBachelor's in Mechanical Engineering, internship experience often preferred
Work EnvironmentCustomer-facing, technical support, product demonstrationsDesign, analysis, testing in office or lab settings
Employer & Industry UsageTech companies, manufacturing, industrial equipmentManufacturing firms, engineering consultancies, R&D

The Entry Level Applications Engineer typically focuses on technical support, product demonstrations, and customer interaction, requiring strong communication skills and technical knowledge. In contrast, a Junior Mechanical Engineer often works on design, analysis, and testing within engineering teams. While both roles require a bachelor's degree, the applications engineer role emphasizes customer-facing skills and product knowledge, whereas the mechanical engineer role centers on technical design and development.

What are the most commonly searched types of Applications Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Applications Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Applications Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Entry Level Applications Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Applications Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL are:

Entry Level Applications Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Applications Engineer job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $114,036 per year, or $54.8 per hour.

Applications Engineer - Entry Level

Fuji America Corporation

Vernon Hills, IL • On-site

$55K - $70K/yr

Full-time

Posted 9 days ago

Job description

Job Summary: The Applications Engineer serves as the primary technical sales resource supporting customers, sales representatives, and channel partners. This role focuses on identifying customer requirements, recommending solutions, conducting product demonstrations, supporting evaluations, preparing technical proposals, and acting as a trusted advisor throughout the sales process.

Key Responsibilities

  • Partner with Sales Representatives to identify customer needs and develop technical solution strategies.
  • Conduct customer discovery meetings, site visits, and application reviews to determine optimal equipment and process solutions.
  • Prepare and deliver technical presentations, product demonstrations, and proof-of-concept evaluations for prospects and existing customers.
  • Provide application recommendations, cycle time analysis, and capacity planning to support sales opportunities.
  • Develop and optimize SMT assembly processes including but not limited to Screen Printers, Placers and Odd Form Insertion machines.
  • Develop technical proposals, statements of work, and solution documentation to support customers’ requirements.
  • Serve as the technical liaison between customers and internal engineering, service, and sales teams.
  • Support trade shows, company events, workshops, and training sessions.
  • Coordinate and manage customer equipment evaluations and acceptance testing activities.
  • Respond to technical questions, RFIs, and RFPs in support of the sales process.
  • Maintain expert knowledge of company products, new technologies, and industry trends related to electronic assembly.
  • Perform other duties assigned by management.

Qualifications & Experience

  • Bachelor’s degree in engineering, technology or related field preferred.
  • Strong presentation, relationship-building, and customer engagement skills.
  • Ability to translate technical concepts into business value for customers.
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team, with minimal supervision.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
  • Previous SMT software/machine and industrial automation, experience is a plus but not required.

Skills and Competencies

  • Technical consulting and solution selling
  • Disciplined and detail oriented
  • Presentation and demonstration skills
  • Project coordination and cross-functional collaboration
  • Problem-solving and analytical thinking
  • Good knowledge of MS office applications (especially Excel) and tech-savvy

Physical & Work Requirements

  • Ability to sit for extended periods while working at a computer, attending virtual meetings, and preparing technical documentation and proposals.
  • Ability to frequently use a computer, keyboard, mouse, telephone, and other standard office equipment.
  • Ability to communicate effectively in person, by telephone, and through virtual meeting platforms.
  • Ability to stand, walk, bend, reach, and occasionally lift and carry up to 25 pounds.
  • Ability to travel domestically and internationally, including overnight travel, as required.
  • Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the position.