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Entry Level Programmer Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

4pconsultinginc

Engineer 1

Naperville, IL · On-site

Naperville, IL Contract- 1 Year Client- Nicor Gas Position Overview The Engineer 1 role is an entry-level engineering position responsible for supporting the design, planning, and construction of ...

dbHMS

Entry Level Mechanical Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$60K - $70K/yr

Our Design Studio team, in our Chicago office is seeking an Entry Level Mechanical Engineer . This role will support the engineering of systems for a variety of projects while working closely with ...

dbHMS

Entry Level Mechanical Engineer

Chicago, IL · Hybrid

$60K - $70K/yr

... Entry Level Mechanical Engineer . This role will support the engineering of systems for a variety of projects while working closely with clients, client reps, architects, and MEP engineers in ...

CFS

Entry Level Staff Accountant

Des Plaines, IL

We have been retained by a well established construction and engineering firm that is seeking a ... This Staff Accountant role is perfect for an entry level finance or accounting college graduate who ...

New

Alliance Group Technologies

Be Seen First

Process Control Engineer (entry level)

East Chicago, IN · On-site

$30 - $35/hr

Our client has an immediate opening for an ENTRY LEVEL Process Control Engineer within the Process Control Steelmaking business unit. This position will be responsible for designing, developing ...

In-finite Search Solutions

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Controls Engineer / Entry Level

Chicago, IL · On-site

$82K - $94K/yr

Entry Level Position: College Graduate - 2 years experience This role will require 40-50%+ travel ... Work in team environment with engineers and designers from partners and clients * Grow into a ...

dbHMS

Entry Level Building Performance Analyst

Chicago, IL · On-site

$60K - $80K/yr

Entry Level Building Performance Analyst Firm Overview Do more than just build! At dbHMS, we are a ... We combine our passion for engineering with our client's vision to realize successful construction ...

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All JobsProgrammer JobsEntry Level Programmer JobsEntry Level Programmer Jobs in Chicago, IL

Entry Level Programmer information

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How much do entry level programmer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level programmer in Chicago, IL is $27.53, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.60 and $23.75 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level programmer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Programmer, you need a solid understanding of programming fundamentals, algorithms, and at least one programming language, often demonstrated by a relevant degree or coding bootcamp experience. Familiarity with version control systems like Git, basic database management, and development environments is typically expected. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help you collaborate with team members and learn quickly. These skills are crucial for successfully building, testing, and maintaining software while adapting to evolving project requirements.

What types of projects and tasks can an entry level programmer typically expect to work on during their first year?

As an entry level programmer, you will often be assigned to support tasks such as debugging code, writing simple scripts, developing small features, and assisting with software testing. You may also update documentation and collaborate with more experienced developers on larger projects. This hands-on experience helps you become familiar with company coding standards, version control systems, and agile development processes while building a foundation for more complex assignments in the future. Teamwork and communication are important, as you’ll regularly interact with other programmers, QA testers, and sometimes project managers.

What is the difference between Entry Level Programmer vs Software Developer?

AspectEntry Level ProgrammerSoftware Developer
Required CredentialsAssociate's degree or coding bootcamp certificationBachelor's degree in Computer Science or related field often preferred
Work EnvironmentEntry-level coding tasks, supervised projectsDesign, develop, and maintain software applications
Employer & Industry UsageTech companies, startups, IT departmentsSoftware firms, tech companies, enterprise IT teams

While both roles involve coding and software development, an Entry Level Programmer typically focuses on basic coding tasks under supervision, whereas a Software Developer often handles full project cycles, including design and testing. The roles overlap in skills and industry usage, but the Software Developer position generally requires more experience and responsibility.

What is an entry level programmer?

As an entry-level programmer, you use software programming languages to create and maintain applications for in-house, proprietary use or clients. You go through an onboarding process to learn your company’s code base and their processes for software development. You work on a team with other programmers and developers, and your job duties include writing code to develop software according to required specifications, testing and debugging code, creating and rolling out fixes, and publishing finished code to the production server. As you gain experience and your skillset expands, you can take on jobs with more autonomy and responsibility.

More about Entry Level Programmer jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Programmer jobs in Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Programmer jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Programmer jobs in Chicago, IL? For Entry Level Programmer jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Programmer jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Programmer jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Entry Level Programmer jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Entry Level Programmer job openings:
Entry Level Programmer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Programmer job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, 11% Contract, and 6% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $57,270 per year, or $27.5 per hour.

Associate Graduate Engineer - Civil

HBK Engineering, LLC

Chicago, IL • On-site

$64K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 17 days ago

Job description

About Us
HBK Engineering, LLC is a fully licensed, professional engineering design firm headquartered in Chicago, IL with a staff approaching 700 individuals. HBK provides civil, environmental, structural, electrical, subsurface utility, construction support services and permitting facilitation. Since our founding in 1998, we have earned a reputation for delivering outstanding, accurate services in extremely time-sensitive, multilayered environments. That "industry-recognized" performance has propelled our expansion and the ability to provide engineering services in all 50 states. With 25 offices nationwide, including concentrations in the Midwest and on the Coasts, HBK brings together a dedicated team whose main focus is the design and protection of utilities and utility networks. We have successfully performed engineering work for a complete spectrum of utility infrastructure projects providing solutions and construction support from Coast to Coast in areas ranging from complex urban city centers, to rural greenfields, to limited access rights-of-way. In July 2020, HBK Engineering was acquired by Quanta Services. Quanta Services provides infrastructure services for electric power, pipeline, and communications industries and employees over 50,000 people. Quanta's focus on the utility industry and HBK's focus on constructability in our designs has made our integration into the Quanta family of companies seamless.
About this Role
HBK Engineering is seeking entry-level Civil including recent graduates, who have an interest in working in the energy sector. An Associate Graduate Engineer at HBK Engineering is a position designed for recent engineering graduates entering the professional workforce. This entry-level role involves designing engineering systems for overhead and subsurface utility projects while developing creative and unique solutions to address complex electrical, structural, civil, and construction-related challenges. The position provides comprehensive exposure to all phases of the design lifecycle from initiation through construction completion and project closeout, offering an excellent foundation for career growth in engineering. Office location: Chicago or Oak Brook, IL
What You'll Do
  • Design engineering systems in compliance with specifications, codes, and client requirements for overhead and subsurface utility projects
  • Deploy creative and unique solutions to address complex electrical, structural, civil, and construction-related challenges
  • Own all phases of the design lifecycle from project initiation through construction completion and closeout
  • Prepare detailed engineering and construction documents using AutoCAD, MicroStation, GIS systems, and client-specific enterprise asset management platforms
  • Analyze information from topographical surveys, utility atlas information, field sketches, client records, and manufacturer equipment datasheets
  • Independently manage time and schedule to achieve project milestones
  • Perform field walkdowns with internal staff, clients, customers, governance authorities, and construction partners
  • Travel as needed, typically less than 25%

What You'll Bring
  • Bachelor of Science in Engineering or related degree from an ABET-accredited program
  • EIT Certification (preferred)
  • 0 to 2 years of relevant experience
  • US driver's license and US work authorization
  • Ability to work independently and in interdisciplinary teams
  • Strong technology skills and understanding of the Office365 suite of tools
  • Working knowledge of 2D CADD software (AutoCAD or similar) including generating layout drawings and project materials
  • Understanding of remote communication software
  • Ability to quickly come up to speed on in-process projects and hit the ground running
  • Experience collaborating with teams to complete larger projects
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills
  • Persistence to see projects through to completion
  • Adaptability to change in a dynamic team environment.

What You'll Get
  • Comprehensive entry-level engineering experience with diverse project exposure
  • Professional development opportunities in utility engineering design
  • Mentorship and training from experienced engineering professionals
  • Hands-on experience with industry-standard software and design tools
  • Field experience through walkdowns and client interactions
  • Travel opportunities for project work and professional growth
  • Collaborative work environment with interdisciplinary teams
  • Clear career progression pathway within the HBK Organization's Engineering Track
  • Foundation for pursuing Professional Engineer (PE) licensure.
  • Comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, vision, disability and employer paid life insurance. In addition, all full-time roles are also eligible for 401(k) retirement plan with company match, paid time off and holidays. Tuition reimbursement and other role specific company paid professional development opportunities are also available.

Compensation Range
The anticipated compensation for this position is USD $64,000.00/Yr. - USD $66,000.00/Yr. depending on experience and qualifications.
Equal Opportunity Employer
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment and will not be discriminated against on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin or ancestry, sex (including gender, pregnancy, sexual orientation, and/or gender identity), age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, and/or any other basis protected by applicable federal, state or local law.
We are an Equal Opportunity Employer, including disability and protected veteran status.
We prohibit all types of discrimination and are committed to providing access and equal opportunity for individuals with disabilities. For additional information or if reasonable accommodation is needed to participate in the job application, interview, or hiring processes or to perform the essential functions of a position, please contact us the Company's Human Resources department.

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