2

Entry Level Java Software Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL

Software Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$97K - $158K/yr

As a Software Engineer, you will develop, test, and deliver scalable, secure, and customer-focused ... Develop, test, and maintain backend RESTful APIs using Java, Spring Boot, and AWS cloud services.

Software Engineer II

Burr Ridge, IL · On-site

$100K - $120K/yr

Build and enhance microservices-based architectures using Java , Spring Boot , and RESTful APIs ... engineers, and fellow developers to deliver high-quality software solutions. * Create clear ...

Senior Software Engineer Job Type: Contractor (~15 hours/week) Location: Remote Job Summary We are ... Strong proficiency in Python 3, Java, Rust, C++, or TypeScript . * Strong understanding of ...

Experience with at least one programming language, such as Java, Python, C++, JavaScript, or similar. * Familiarity with software development concepts, including data structures, algorithms, object ...

JAVA Architect

Lincolnshire, IL · On-site

$66.25 - $89.50/hr

Our company provides application analysis, design, development and programming, software ... Mandatory Technical Skills Java, J2EE, JMX, RMI, Web Services, Message Queue, GIT Desirable ...

Our software engineering teams are highly valued by customers, whether start-ups or established ... Strong backend development skills in Node.js, Java, Python, or Go. * Experience working with REST ...

Senior Software Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$112K - $183K/yr

Design, develop, test, and maintain backend RESTful APIs and microservices using Java, Spring Boot ... Mentor software engineers through technical guidance, code reviews, and sharing of engineering best ...

As a Software Engineer at IMC, you will drive the development of our cutting-edge trading ... Proficiency in a programming language is required (Java or C++ preferred) * Strong analytical ...

Software Engineer

Hammond, IN · On-site

$80 - $100/hr

We are seeking both entry-level and experienced software engineers who are practical problem solvers, self-directed, and interested in developing systems that interact directly with industrial ...

AI Software Engineer 1

Chicago, IL · On-site

$80K - $100K/yr

The AI Software Engineer I is responsible for supporting the development, implementation, and ... Familiarity with one or more programming languages such as Python, Java, JavaScript, or C+

As a Software Engineer at IMC, you will drive the development of our cutting-edge trading ... Proficiency in a programming language is required (Java or C++ preferred) * Strong analytical ...

Full Stack Java Architect

Chicago, IL · On-site

$65 - $87.50/hr

Proficiency in Devops solutions and tools such as Jenkins, docker, kubernetes * Strong experience ... In-depth knowledge of software development life cycle and agile methodologies * Excellent problem ...

Showing results 41-60

Entry Level Java Software Engineer information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$51K

$101.8K

$206.5K

How much do entry level java software engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level java software engineer in Chicago, IL is $101,769.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $64,900.00 and $105,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry level Java software engineer?

An Entry Level Java Software Engineer is a beginner role in software development that focuses on building, testing, and maintaining applications using Java. Engineers in this position work under the guidance of senior developers to write code, debug programs, and collaborate with teams to develop software solutions. Typical responsibilities include understanding project requirements, writing efficient code, and learning best practices in software engineering. This role is ideal for recent graduates or those with foundational programming knowledge looking to start a career in Java development.

What does a typical day look like for an entry level Java software engineer?

As an Entry Level Java Software Engineer, your day often includes writing and debugging Java code, participating in daily stand-up meetings, and collaborating with senior developers or mentors on assigned tasks. You might work on implementing new features, fixing bugs, reviewing pull requests, and learning about development best practices and code standards. There's usually a mix of independent work and teamwork, with opportunities to ask questions, receive feedback, and build your technical skills. This structure is designed to help you gain experience while steadily expanding your responsibilities within the team.

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

To thrive as an Entry Level Java Software Engineer, you need a solid understanding of Java programming, object-oriented concepts, basic algorithms, and a relevant degree in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with tools such as IntelliJ IDEA or Eclipse, version control systems like Git, and awareness of popular frameworks such as Spring or Hibernate is typically expected. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, a willingness to learn, and effective team communication will set you apart. These competencies help you quickly adapt to real-world software development environments, contribute to team projects, and build a successful engineering foundation.

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

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

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Entry Level Java Software Engineer jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Entry Level Java Software Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Java Software Engineer job openings in Chicago, IL as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 20% Internship, and 80% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $101,769 per year, or $48.9 per hour.

Software Engineer

Chicago, IL • On-site

$97K - $158K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 7 days ago


Caterpillar Inc. rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 489 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

273rd of 499 rated machine equipment manufacturers


Job description

Career Area:
Technology, Digital and Data
Job Description:
Your Work Shapes the World at Caterpillar Inc.
When you join Caterpillar, you're joining a global team who cares not just about the work we do - but also about each other. We are the makers, problem solvers, and future world builders who are creating stronger, more sustainable communities. We don't just talk about progress and innovation here - we make it happen, with our customers, where we work and live. Together, we are building a better world, so we can all enjoy living in it.
JOB PURPOSE:
Join Cat Digital Platform and help build the technology that powers Caterpillar's digital future. Our platform fuels the secure flow of data, insights, and services connecting customers, dealers, machines, and applications worldwide. As a Software Engineer, you will develop, test, and deliver scalable, secure, and customer-focused cloud solutions while contributing to the team's technical excellence and delivery success.
JOB DUTIES:
  • Develop, test, and maintain backend RESTful APIs using Java, Spring Boot, and AWS cloud services.
  • Develop and maintain API contracts, payload schemas, and OpenAPI/Swagger specifications.
  • Implement integrations using established authentication and authorization standards, including OAuth 2.0.
  • Develop automated unit and integration tests and participate in performance, load, and quality testing activities.
  • Participate in peer code reviews and contribute to engineering best practices and continuous improvement initiatives.
  • Troubleshoot and resolve application, integration, and production support issues.
  • Contribute to CI/CD pipeline automation, deployment processes, and operational support activities.
  • Create and maintain technical documentation, deployment guides, and operational runbooks.

What you will have:
  • Software Development: Knowledge of software development tools and activities; ability to produce software products or systems in line with product requirements.
  • Software Product Design/Architecture: Knowledge of software product design; ability to convert market requirements into the software product design.
  • Decision Making and Critical Thinking: Knowledge of the decision-making process and associated tools and techniques; ability to accurately analyze situations and reach productive decisions based on informed judgment.
  • Effective Communications: Understanding of effective communication concepts, tools and techniques; ability to effectively transmit, receive, and accurately interpret ideas, information, and needs through the application of appropriate communication behaviors.

Top candidates will also have:
  • Experience developing RESTful APIs and microservices using Java 21+, Spring Boot, API gateway technologies such as Apigee, and cloud platforms such as AWS, Azure, or GCP.
  • Understanding of API security concepts, including OAuth 2.0, JWT, and service-to-service communication patterns.
  • Strong understanding of data structures and object-oriented design principles.
  • Experience with event-driven architectures and messaging technologies such as Kafka, AWS SQS, AWS SNS, AWS Kinesis, or RabbitMQ.
  • Experience with relational and NoSQL databases such as Aurora, DynamoDB, PostgreSQL, MySQL, Oracle, MongoDB, Redis, or Elasticsearch.
  • Experience developing automated unit and integration tests and deploying applications using CI/CD tools such as Azure DevOps, Jenkins, GitHub Actions, or similar platforms.
  • Experience working in Agile/Scrum teams and collaborating effectively across engineering, product, and business stakeholders.

Additional Details:
  • This position requires the candidate to be based in Chicago, IL
  • Relocation assistance is not available for this position
  • Visa sponsorship is not available for this position

Summary Pay Range:
$97,530.00 - $158,480.00
Compensation and benefits offered may vary depending on multiple individualized factors, job level, market location, job-related knowledge, skills, individual performance and experience. Please note that salary is only one component of total compensation at Caterpillar.
Benefits:
Subject to plan eligibility, terms, and guidelines. This is a summary list of benefits.
  • Medical, dental, and vision benefits*
  • Paid time off plan (Vacation, Holidays, Volunteer, etc.)*
  • 401(k) savings plans*
  • Health Savings Account (HSA)*
  • Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs)*
  • Health Lifestyle Programs*
  • Employee Assistance Program*
  • Voluntary Benefits and Employee Discounts*
  • Career Development*
  • Incentive bonus*
  • Disability benefits
  • Life Insurance
  • Parental leave
  • Adoption benefits
  • Tuition Reimbursement

* These benefits also apply to part-time employees
Visa Sponsorship is not available for this position.
Posting Dates:
September 2, 2026 - September 13, 2026
Any offer of employment is conditioned upon the successful completion of a drug screen.
Caterpillar is an Equal Opportunity Employer, Including Veterans and Individuals with Disabilities. Qualified applicants of any age are encouraged to apply.
Not ready to apply? Join our Talent Community.

What Caterpillar Inc. employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom