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Entry Level Performance Engineer Jobs in Indianapolis, IN

Field Application Engineer

Indianapolis, IN · On-site +1

$54K - $81K/yr

Locations | Entry-Level | Full-Time Are you ready to launch your career with one of the world ... Performance Bonus Target: $24,000 annually (performance-based), paid quarterly * World-Class ...

Locations | Entry-Level | Full-Time Are you ready to launch your career with one of the world ... Performance Bonus Target: $24,000 annually (performance-based), paid quarterly * World-Class ...

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Entry Level Performance Engineer information

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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 Indianapolis, IN is $57.45, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $47.12 and $65.05 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 Indianapolis, IN? The most popular types of Performance Engineer jobs in Indianapolis, IN are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Performance Engineer jobs in Indianapolis, IN? For Entry Level Performance Engineer jobs in Indianapolis, IN, the most frequently searched job titles are:
System Performance and Emissions Engineer

System Performance and Emissions Engineer

Cummins Inc.

Columbus, IN • On-site

Full-time

Posted 18 days ago


Cummins rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 259 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

133rd of 527 rated manufacturers


Job description

We are looking for a talented System Performance and Emissions Engineer to join our team specializing in Engineering in Columbus, IN. 

In this role, you will make an impact in the following ways: 

  • Diagnose and resolve thermal and fluid system issues by identifying root causes and delivering data-driven corrective actions that improve product performance and reliability.
  • Own problem resolution for moderately complex components and systems, ensuring issues are fully investigated, documented, and closed with lasting solutions.
  • Leverage advanced simulation, calibration, and analysis tools (e.g., GT-Suite, Fluent, CDAT, Calterm) to generate insights that guide design improvements and decision-making.
  • Strengthen engineering execution by applying and improving core processes (PPP, PPT, VPI/VPC, ESW, FEP) to enhance quality, consistency, and speed.
  • Influence project outcomes by collaborating across teams and translating technical findings into clear recommendations for design optimization and feasibility decisions.
  • Drive project momentum through sound day-to-day decisions on testing, analysis, and stakeholder communication that keep programs on track.
  • Build team capability by coordinating technicians or junior resources and contributing to shared goals through effective collaboration and knowledge sharing.
  • Grow into a trusted technical contributor by independently executing work, improving processes, and expanding expertise in thermal and fluid sciences.
Cummins is an equal opportunity employer. Our policy is to provide equal employment opportunities to all qualified persons without regard to race, sex, color, disability, national origin, age, religion, union affiliation, sexual orientation, veteran status, citizenship, gender identity, or other status protected by law.

Additional Information:

This role is exempt and candidates must have 2+ years of experience

The Engineer will support engine testing and system performance optimization for future products, with a primary focus on emissions control systems, emissions diagnostics calibration, and test cell execution.

Required Qualifications & Skills:

  • Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Thermal Sciences, Chemical Engineering, or a related field.

Preferred Qualifications & Skills:

  • Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Thermal Sciences, Chemical Engineering, or a related field.
  • Experience in engine, energy conversion systems, or aftertreatment testing, analysis, or modeling (internships, co-ops, coursework, hands-on projects or research experience acceptable).
  • Solid foundation in thermodynamics, heat transfer, fluid mechanics, and combustion processes.
  • Ability to collaborate effectively in cross-functional teams and communicate technical results clearly.
  • Working knowledge or exposure to at least one of the following:
    • Simulation: GT Suite, Boost, Fluent, Converge
    • Data & Analysis: MATLAB, Excel

Compensation:

Please note that the salary range provided is a good faith estimate on the applicable range. The final salary offer will be determined after considering relevant factors, including a candidate's qualifications and experience, where appropriate.

To be successful in this role you will need the following:

  • Build deep technical mastery in fluid dynamics, heat transfer, and thermodynamics so you can confidently predict system behavior and guide engineering decisions.
  • Use modeling, simulation, and statistical analysis to turn complex data into clear insights that drive design improvements and validate performance.
  • Proactively identify and mitigate failure modes by understanding system interactions, ensuring strong product reliability and reduced risk.
  • Apply disciplined, data-driven problem solving to identify root causes, implement robust solutions, and prevent recurrence while protecting the customer.
  • Translate stakeholder needs into clear, traceable system requirements and manage them throughout the product lifecycle to ensure alignment and success.
  • Think in systems by understanding interactions across components, controls, and environments to optimize overall system performance-not just individual parts.
  • Execute projects effectively by planning, monitoring, and coordinating across teams while managing risk and maintaining quality expectations.
  • Collaborate and communicate effectively, make timely decisions, continuously develop your skills, and leverage diverse perspectives to drive strong results.


Education, Licenses, Certifications:

  • College, university, or equivalent Bachelor's degree in Engineering or appropriate STEM field is required
  • Post-graduate (Master's) degree relevant to this discipline area may be required for select roles.
  • This position may require licensing for compliance with export controls or sanctions regulations.

Experience:

  • Entry level/Early career professional.
  • Preferred candidates would have relevant experience working in either a temporary student employment environment (intern, co-op, or other extracurricular team activities) or as an early career professional in a relevant technical discipline area.
  • Knowledge of MS Office tools is also preferred

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About Cummins

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Cummins Inc., headquartered in Columbus, IN, US, is a global power leader that designs, manufactures, and distributes numerous power products and systems. With its genesis from as early as 1919, the company readily serves diverse industries such as transportation, industrial, generator drive, or marine applications, among others. At the heart of Cummins' operations, its key product lineup encompasses diesel & natural gas engines, generator sets, engine components, and filtration, emission solutions, and electrical power generation systems. Cummins deeply embodies core values of integrity, respect for diversity, teamwork, performance excellence, and social responsibility - all of which dynamically fuel their mission 'Making people's lives better by powering a more prosperous world'.

Industry

Transportation equipment manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Columbus, IN, US

Year founded

1919