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Entry Level Developer Jobs in DeKalb, IL (NOW HIRING)

Purchasing

Elgin, IL · On-site

$65K/yr

Entry Level Purchasing 1st shift E-Verify Location: Elgin, IL | On-Site JOB SUMMARY: Primary Duties ... Work closely with engineers and estimators to facilitate project quotes, color chip approval, and ...

Operator Mechanic - 1st Shift

Rockford, IL · On-site

$27.55 - $28.97/hr

Required** • Prior manufacturing experience, including machine operation and entry level ... Experience in reading engineering prints. Relationships: Inspection, Machine Shop, Tool Room ...

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Entry Level Developer information

See DeKalb, IL salary details

$29K

$98.4K

$237K

How much do entry level developer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level developer in DeKalb, IL is $98,410.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $62,300.00 and $104,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is L1, L2, L3, and L4 developer?

In the context of entry-level developers, L1, L2, L3, and L4 typically refer to different levels of experience and responsibility within a company's technical hierarchy. L1 is usually an entry-level or junior developer, L2 and L3 are mid-level roles with increasing expertise, and L4 often signifies senior or lead developers. These levels help define expectations for skills, problem-solving, and project responsibilities in a development team.

What is the difference between Entry Level Developer vs Junior Software Engineer?

AspectEntry Level DeveloperJunior Software Engineer
Required CredentialsAssociate degree or coding bootcamp certificationSimilar; often an associate degree or equivalent experience
Work EnvironmentEntry-level projects, supervised tasksCollaborative team settings, basic coding tasks
Employer & Industry UsageTech companies, startups, IT departmentsSoftware firms, tech departments, consulting firms
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Both roles typically require similar foundational skills and certifications, with slight differences in job responsibilities. Entry Level Developers focus on learning and supporting projects, while Junior Software Engineers often have more technical responsibilities. The terms are often used interchangeably, but understanding these nuances helps in job search and career planning.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Developer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Developer, you need a solid understanding of programming languages (such as Java, Python, or JavaScript), problem-solving abilities, and a relevant degree or coding bootcamp certification. Familiarity with version control systems like Git, basic knowledge of databases, and exposure to development environments or frameworks are typically required. Strong communication, teamwork, and a willingness to learn new technologies help set candidates apart. These skills and qualities are essential for contributing effectively to projects, adapting to evolving technical requirements, and collaborating within development teams.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level developers during their first year on the job?

Entry level developers often encounter challenges such as adapting to new codebases, learning company-specific development workflows, and collaborating effectively with more experienced team members. Balancing the need to ask questions with the desire to solve problems independently can also be tricky. Additionally, keeping up with frequent technology updates and understanding project requirements thoroughly are important hurdles. Most organizations offer mentorship, code reviews, and regular feedback to help new developers overcome these challenges and grow their skills quickly.

What Does an Entry-Level Developer Do?

As an entry-level developer, your duties are to work as part of a team to develop a piece of software or an application for a computer or web browser. Your responsibilities vary depending on your specific assignment. As an entry-level developer, you may assist in multiple aspects of the project while you determine a more specific career path. Your duties include working with QA testers to troubleshoot bugs in your programs, programming specific portions of the app or software, and collaborating with programmers, developers, and other technical professionals to understand and clarify the goals of the application.

What are entry level developers?

Entry level developers are individuals who are starting their careers in software development, typically with less than two years of professional experience. They are responsible for writing, testing, and maintaining code under the guidance of more experienced developers. Entry level developers often work on basic coding tasks, bug fixes, and learning new technologies as part of a development team. Their role is crucial for gaining practical experience and building foundational skills needed for advancement in the tech industry.

Will AI replace coders by 2040?

Entry level developers will continue to play a vital role in software development, as AI tools are designed to assist rather than fully replace human programmers. While AI can automate routine coding tasks, skills such as problem-solving, creativity, and understanding user needs remain essential for developers. Staying updated with programming languages and tools will help new developers adapt to evolving technology.

How do I get a developer job with no experience?

Entry-level developer positions often require demonstrating foundational programming skills through personal projects, coding bootcamps, or online courses. Building a portfolio, learning relevant tools like Git, and gaining certifications can improve your chances despite limited work experience.

Can I make 200k a year as a software engineer?

Entry level developers typically do not earn $200,000 annually; such salaries are usually associated with senior roles, specialized skills, or work in high-cost living areas. Factors like experience, expertise in in-demand technologies, and company size influence earning potential. Most entry level positions start with lower salaries, but with experience and skill development, higher compensation is achievable over time.
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Developer jobs in DeKalb, IL? For Entry Level Developer jobs in DeKalb, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Developer jobs in DeKalb, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Developer jobs in DeKalb, IL are:
What cities near DeKalb, IL are hiring for Entry Level Developer jobs? Cities near DeKalb, IL with the most Entry Level Developer job openings:
Stormwater Engineer

Stormwater Engineer

Hampton, Lenzini and Renwick

Elgin, IL • On-site, Remote

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 14 days ago


Job description

**If needed, this position can be a fully remote position**


Hampton, Lenzini and Renwick, Inc. (HLR) is looking to hire a full-time Stormwater Engineer to join our team! This position will be based out of our Elgin, IL office. Are you a civil engineering professional who is ready to take your career to the next level in a rewarding environment with an established and respected firm that cares about the happiness and wellbeing of their employees? Do you want to work for a firm that works hard, has fun, and gives back? If so, please read on!

The Stormwater Engineer position earns a competitive salary, depending on experience. We also offer health insurance (PPO and HSA), Dental Insurance, an employer health savings account (HSA) contribution, vision insurance, a 401(k) plan with a 6% company match, paid holidays, paid time off (PTO), short-term and long-term disability, life insurance, a Lifestyle account of up to $2,000, a student loan paydown, an employee assistance program (EAP), flexible hours, continuing education, professional license expense reimbursement, professional society/association membership dues, and opportunities for career growth. If this sounds like the right opportunity for you, apply today!


About Hampton, Lenzini and Renwick, Inc. (HLR)

Founded in 1965, Hampton, Lenzini and Renwick, Inc. (HLR) is a 100% employee-owned civil engineering firm headquartered in Elgin, IL with additional offices spanning across the state of Illinois. HLR is a leading provider of professional consulting engineering, environmental, and surveying services, serving public agencies and private-sector clients throughout the Midwest.

We believe that our team and award-winning Work Hard | Have Fun | Give Back culture are what draw employees and clients to our firm and are proud to be named the number one 2024 A/E/C Employer of Choice by PSMJ Resources, Inc., based on our workforce retention, productivity, and superior level of employee engagement. Additionally, HLR received the 2023 Premier Award for Client Satisfaction by PSMJ Resources, Inc. - the only award recognizing the A/E/C firms that deliver a truly exceptional client experience.

At HLR, our culture and team are paramount to our success. We've built an incredible atmosphere that attracts bright, driven, caring individuals who sincerely want to make a difference in the industry. We are truly a team in every sense: we're mentors and collaborators who believe in supporting one another as we work together to achieve our goals. We're passionate about employee development, evidenced by our Pathways to Success program - a specialized roadmap to career advancement - as well as the time and resources we dedicate to employee training and education. We challenge ourselves, celebrate accomplishments big and small, and focus on fostering a positive, synergetic environment where individuals can thrive professionally and personally. By joining our team, you are joining us on our mission to make a measurable impact in the communities which we live and work each and every day. Together, we can redefine excellence.


On any given day, you'll:

  • Take on an increasingly responsible role in the design of projects
  • Independently evaluate, select, and apply standard engineering techniques, procedures, and criteria on moderately complex projects
  • Develop plans, specifications, schedules, permits, and inspection reports in accordance with good engineering practice
  • Serve as a technical advisor to entry-level project team members
  • Receive instruction on specific assignment objectives, complex features, and possible solutions from professional engineering staff
  • Prepare design computations and quantity estimates
  • Develop construction cost estimates for projects
  • Serve as onsite project representative
  • Apply standard practices and techniques in specific situations, adjust and correlate data, recognize discrepancies in results, and follow operations through a series of related steps or processes
  • Prepare comprehensive stormwater reports to support design or permitting regulations
  • Read, analyze, and interpret technical procedures, or government regulations
  • Provide engineering support for a variety of municipal and private projects including roadway reconstruction, sanitary sewers, storm sewers, water mains, bridges, trails, and traffic signals

Qualifications:

  • Bachelor's Degree in Civil Engineering from an accredited college or university
  • Passed the Fundamental in Engineering exam
  • A minimum of 3 years of related engineering experience
  • Professional Engineer license in Illinois, or ability to become licensed within 18 months of hire
  • Certified Floodplain Manager (CFM) Certification within 12 months of hire
  • Valid driver's license with a good driving record

Desired Skills and Experiences:

  • Proficient with Microsoft Word in the preparation of reports, specifications, and narrative communication with clients
  • Experience in the following areas: stormwater ordinance interpretation, municipal design, InRoads, MicroStation, GEOPAK, GIS, stormwater modeling (HEC-RAS, HEC-HMS, StormCAD, Hydraflow), and construction observation/administration
  • Previous experience in permitting through IDNR-OWR, USACE, and Local County Stormwater Ordinances
  • Soil Erosion and Sediment Control Design
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills

Physical Demands:

  • Ability to work in extreme weather conditions for extended periods of time
  • Ability to sit, walk, reach, crouch, bend, and walk or stand on uneven surfaces for extended periods of time
  • Ability to lift and carry a minimum of 30 lbs.
  • Constant hand, finger, and arm use
  • Constant computer screen exposure
  • Prolonged reading

READY TO JOIN OUR TEAM?

We understand your time is valuable and that is why we have a very quick and easy application process. If you feel that you would be right for this position, please fill out our initial 3-minute, mobile-friendly application. We look forward to meeting you!