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Entry Level Performance Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL

The LaSalle Group

Android Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$140K - $160K/yr

Optimize application performance across device types and OS versions * Implement secure content ... entry-level positions to the C-suite. With units specializing in Accounting and Finance ...

Elutions

Domain Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

... performance and workforce productivity. As the top leader in our industry, world-wide, we are ... training is available. ** Entry Level Candidates are Encouraged to Apply!!!** General ...

Elutions

Domain Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

... performance and workforce productivity. As the top leader in our industry, world-wide, we are ... training is available. ** Entry Level Candidates are Encouraged to Apply!!!** General ...

Elutions

Domain Engineer

Chicago, IL · Remote

... performance and workforce productivity. As the top leader in our industry, world-wide, we are ... training is available. ** Entry Level Candidates are Encouraged to Apply!!!** General ...

Actalent

Entry Level Recruiter | Sales Trainee

Chicago, IL · On-site

$195K/yr

Building trusted relationships with our network of engineering and sciences consultants under our ... Desire to work in a performance-based environment Our Perks * Unlimited commission potential * Paid ...

Actalent

Entry Level Recruiter | Sales Trainee

Chicago, IL · On-site

$200K/yr

Building trusted relationships with our network of engineering and sciences consultants under our ... Desire to work in a performance-based environment Our Perks * Unlimited commission potential * Paid ...

Actalent

Entry Level Recruiter | Sales Trainee

Chicago, IL · On-site

$200K/yr

Building trusted relationships with our network of engineering and sciences consultants under our ... Desire to work in a performance-based environment Our Perks * Unlimited commission potential * Paid ...

Actalent

Entry Level Recruiter | Sales Trainee

Chicago, IL · On-site

$195K/yr

Building trusted relationships with our network of engineering and sciences consultants under our ... Desire to work in a performance-based environment Our Perks * Unlimited commission potential * Paid ...

Actalent

Entry Level Recruiter | Sales Trainee

Chicago, IL · On-site

$200K/yr

Building trusted relationships with our network of engineering and sciences consultants under our ... Desire to work in a performance-based environment Our Perks * Unlimited commission potential * Paid ...

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

Entry Level Performance Engineer information

See Chicago, IL salary details

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

As of Jul 14, 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.

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 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 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
Applications Engineer (Bilingual in Mandarin)

Applications Engineer (Bilingual in Mandarin)

RFA Engineering

Chicago, IL • On-site

$70K - $95K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 18 days ago

Job description

RFA Engineering (www.rfamec.com) is an engineering service provider dedicated to delivering our clients with timely engineering support and expertise. We are currently supporting one of our clients in the industrial equipment and hydraulics space in their search for a senior-level Applications Engineer.
This is a direct hire opportunity where the selected candidate will join our client's engineering team and work closely with both engineering and sales functions to support customer applications and deliver technical solutions.
Applications Engineer I
The Applications Engineer I is responsible for supporting technical efforts related to hydraulic components and systems, working with internal teams to understand customer application requirements and assist in delivering effective solutions.
This is an entry-level, customer-facing engineering role that combines foundational engineering knowledge with application-based problem solving and sales support. The role is designed to develop into a fully capable applications engineer through hands-on experience, mentorship, and exposure to real-world applications.
The ideal candidate is a strong communicator with solid engineering fundamentals, a willingness to learn hydraulics and application engineering, and the ability to collaborate across technical and commercial teams in a global environment.
Responsibilities
  • Support application engineering efforts for hydraulic systems and components
  • Assist in gathering and analyzing customer requirements
  • Support application development, troubleshooting, and system validation
  • Collaborate with sales teams to support technical solutions and proposals
  • Assist in preparing technical documentation, presentations, and supporting materials
  • Work with internal engineering teams to help define product configurations
  • Support troubleshooting and resolution of customer application issues
  • Participate in technical training and onboarding with global engineering teams
  • Collaborate with global teams, including coordination with engineering resources outside the U.S.
  • Travel to customer sites as required (~10% domestic travel)

Requirements
  • Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field
  • Fluent in Mandarin REQUIRED
  • Willingness to travel internationally for training (including China)
  • At least one engineering internship or equivalent hands-on experience
  • Strong communication and problem-solving skills
  • Ability to learn quickly and apply engineering fundamentals to real-world applications
  • Ability to work in a team-oriented, customer-focused environment
  • Must be located near the greater Chicago area or willing to relocate
  • Must be able to work onsite (not remote)

Desired Attributes
  • Exposure to hydraulics or fluid power systems
  • Internship or project experience in mechanical systems or off-highway equipment
  • Interest in customer-facing or applications engineering roles
  • CAD experience (SolidWorks or similar)
  • Ability to work effectively with both technical and non-technical stakeholders

Additional Details
  • Onsite work environment based in the greater Chicago area
  • Entry-level role with structured onboarding and technical training
  • Opportunity for international training and collaboration with global teams
  • Travel requirements include limited domestic travel and initial international training
  • Flexible work schedule with coordination required to support global teams

VISA Sponsorship is NOT available for this position.
About the Client
Our client is a global provider of hydraulic components and systems supporting OEMs across industries such as construction, agriculture, and heavy equipment. With a growing presence in North America, the organization is focused on expanding its engineering and customer support capabilities to better serve key accounts.
The company offers a collaborative environment where engineers work closely with customers and internal teams to develop application-specific solutions. This role provides an opportunity to contribute to both technical execution and customer engagement within a rapidly evolving and expanding organization.
Compensation & Benefits
  • Competitive base salary ($70,000 - $95,000), commensurate with experience
  • Comprehensive benefits package provided by the client
    • Competitive salary
    • Bonus opportunity for team and individual performance
    • Insurance options include Medical, Dental, Vision, Disability plans
    • Employer paid life insurance
    • Health Savings option available with employer contribution
    • Paid vacation, sick days, and holidays
    • Monthly allowances for phone, car, home office use
    • 401(k) match - 100% match for 4% salary
    • Company credit for work expenses

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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