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Entry Level Performance Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL

Wolverine

Entry-Level C++ Software Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$80K - $120K/yr

Chicago, IL Description At Wolverine Trading, we're looking for an Entry-Level C++ Software Engineer eager to launch their career in high-performance trading technology. This role is on-site in our ...

SynergisticIT

Entry-Level Java Developer

Chicago, IL

$65K - $110K/yr

Entry-Level Java Developers Salary- $65k-$110k Per Year Job Type- Full-Time Location- Chicago, IL ... Conduct code testing to ensure faster and seamless app performance. Integrate Java apps with ...

dbHMS

Entry Level Mechanical Engineer

Chicago, IL · Hybrid

$60K - $70K/yr

... performance, efficient, and sustainable buildings worldwide.  Our Design Studio team, in our  Chicago  office is seeking an  Entry Level Mechanical Engineer . This role will support the ...

dbHMS

Entry Level Mechanical Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$60K - $70K/yr

... high-performance, efficient, and sustainable buildings worldwide. Our Design Studio team, in our ... an Entry Level Mechanical Engineer . This role will support the engineering of systems for a ...

Wolverine

Entry-Level C++ Software Engineer

Chicago, IL

$80K - $120K/yr

Description At Wolverine Trading, we're looking for an Entry-Level C++ Software Engineer eager to launch their career in high-performance trading technology. This role is on-site in our Chicago ...

langan

Civil Engineer - Entry Level

Chicago, IL · On-site

$65K - $84K/yr

Langan provides expert land development engineering and environmental consulting services for major ... Bonuses are discretionary and based on individual job performance and the profitability of the firm.

langan

Civil Engineer - Entry Level

Chicago, IL · On-site

$65K - $84K/yr

Langan provides expert land development engineering and environmental consulting services for major ... Bonuses are discretionary and based on individual job performance and the profitability of the firm.

langan

Environmental Engineer - Entry Level

Chicago, IL · On-site +1

$65K - $84K/yr

Langan provides expert land development engineering and environmental consulting services for major ... Bonuses are discretionary and based on individual job performance and the profitability of the firm.

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All JobsEntry Level Performance Engineer JobsEntry Level Performance Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL

Entry Level Performance Engineer information

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How much do entry level performance engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level performance engineer in Chicago, IL is $61.92, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $50.77 and $70.10 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are entry level performance engineers?

Entry level performance engineers are professionals who help analyze, test, and optimize the speed, efficiency, and scalability of software applications or systems. They work under the guidance of senior engineers to identify performance bottlenecks, run tests, collect data, and recommend improvements. Typically, they use specialized tools to simulate real-world usage and ensure applications meet performance goals. This role is ideal for recent graduates or those new to the field, and it can lead to advanced engineering positions with experience.

Are performance engineers in demand?

Performance engineers are in high demand across industries that require optimizing system efficiency, such as software development, networking, and cloud services. Employers seek professionals skilled in performance testing tools, scripting, and monitoring to ensure system reliability and scalability, making entry-level performance engineering roles increasingly available.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior engineers in specialized fields such as software engineering, petroleum engineering, and aerospace engineering can earn $300,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced skills, and in high-demand industries. Executive-level engineering roles or those with significant managerial responsibilities may also reach this compensation level.

What is the difference between Entry Level Performance Engineer vs Performance Analyst?

AspectEntry Level Performance EngineerPerformance Analyst
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Computer Science, Engineering, or related field; basic knowledge of performance testing toolsBachelor's in IT, Computer Science, or related; understanding of data analysis and performance metrics
Work EnvironmentSoftware development teams, testing labs, IT departmentsData analysis teams, IT departments, business units
Employer & Industry UsageTech companies, software firms, engineering teamsIT firms, consulting agencies, large corporations

Entry Level Performance Engineers focus on testing and optimizing software performance, while Performance Analysts analyze data to improve system efficiency. Both roles require foundational technical skills and are common in tech and IT industries, but they emphasize different aspects of performance management.

What job makes $10,000 a month without a degree?

Entry Level Performance Engineers typically do not earn $10,000 a month without experience or specialized skills. High-paying roles that can reach this level often require advanced technical expertise, certifications, or experience in fields like software development, sales, or entrepreneurship. Most jobs paying this salary without a degree are in sales, tech, or business ownership, rather than entry-level engineering positions.

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

To thrive as an Entry Level Performance Engineer, you need a strong grasp of software development concepts, performance testing methodologies, and a relevant degree in computer science or engineering. Familiarity with tools like JMeter, LoadRunner, and application monitoring systems is typically required. Analytical thinking, problem-solving, and effective teamwork are the soft skills that set top performers apart. These skills and qualifications are crucial to identifying system bottlenecks, ensuring application reliability, and collaborating efficiently with cross-functional teams.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level performance engineers, and how can they be addressed?

Entry level performance engineers often encounter challenges such as identifying performance bottlenecks in complex systems and interpreting large volumes of test data. It's common to feel overwhelmed when learning new performance testing tools or scripting languages. Collaborating closely with senior engineers and developers, asking questions, and actively participating in team reviews can ease the learning curve. Over time, gaining hands-on experience with monitoring tools and understanding system architectures will help you develop the skills needed to tackle these challenges effectively.

What engineer makes $500,000 a year?

Performance engineers or senior software engineers with specialized skills, extensive experience, and working in high-demand industries can earn salaries approaching or exceeding $500,000 annually, especially with bonuses and stock options. Such compensation typically requires advanced expertise, leadership roles, or working at large tech companies in competitive markets.
What are the most commonly searched types of Performance Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Performance Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Performance Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL? For Entry Level Performance Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Performance Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Performance Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL are:
Entry Level Performance Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Performance Engineer job openings in Chicago, IL as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 5% Nights. Highlights an 86% Physical, 7% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $128,787 per year, or $61.9 per hour.

Entry-Level C++ Software Engineer

Wolverine

Chicago, IL • On-site

$80K - $120K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 27 days ago

Job description

Entry-Level C++ Software Engineer
Department: Technology
Employment Type: Full Time
Location: Chicago, IL
Description
At Wolverine Trading, we're looking for an Entry-Level C++ Software Engineer eager to launch their career in high-performance trading technology. This role is on-site in our Chicago headquarters, where close collaboration with traders and engineers is central to our culture. You'll join a team of experienced engineers, traders, and hardware specialists building cutting-edge systems that power our trading business. This is a unique opportunity to learn at the intersection of software, hardware, and financial markets, while working on applications where speed, efficiency, and reliability make all the difference. From day one, you'll benefit from direct mentorship, clear growth paths, and hands-on exposure to the trading floor giving you the chance to see your work in action and quickly develop both technical and industry expertise.
What You'll Do
  • Contribute to the design, development, and testing of C++ applications that drive our trading platforms
  • Collaborate with traders and senior engineers to understand requirements and translate them into efficient technical solutions.
  • Assist in monitoring, profiling, and troubleshooting applications to improve reliability and stability.
  • Gain exposure to the full lifecycle of trading system development, from idea to production support.

What We're Looking For
  • Bachelor's or Master's Degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, or a related field.
  • Strong knowledge of C++ and object-oriented design; familiarity with modern C++ (C++17/20) is a plus.
  • Solid understanding of data structures, algorithms, and problem-solving fundamentals.
  • Interest in multi-threaded programming, performance tuning, and real-time systems.
  • Curiosity about financial markets and a desire to learn how technology drives trading.
  • Strong communication skills and a collaborative mindset.
  • A passion for tackling complex technical challenges and continuously improving.

Why Join Us
Our flat organizational structure promotes teamwork across the Firm and offers easy access to senior staff. While we work exceptionally well as a team in the office, our bonds are further strengthened through company events, activities and giving back. Volleyball, soccer, hockey, 5K runs, picnic, parties, and trivia nights provide friendly competition and build better relationships. By getting out of our usual environment and doing out-of-the-ordinary things together, we foster creativity and broaden our imaginations to accomplish new challenges.
Benefits:
  • Highly competitive salary & bonus opportunity
  • Generous paid time off and flexible scheduling
  • 100% coverage of medical, dental, vision, life, and disability benefits for single coverage
  • Generous Paid Parental Leave
  • Retirement Plans: 401K and Roth 401K
  • Profit sharing plan
  • Long- and short-term disability

Additional Perks:
  • Free breakfast and lunch from our in-house kitchen with rotating menus (including snacks!)
  • On-site gym with a subsidized membership
  • Frequent company outings
  • Opportunity to give back to organizations that help individuals in need in the Chicagoland area

Professional Development:
  • In-house education team - classes and resources are offered for continuous learning opportunities
  • Mentorship Program through your first six months of employment

The base compensation range for this role is approximately $80,000-$120,000 contingent on experience. Wolverine Trading's total compensation model includes base salary and an annual discretionary bonus.

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