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Entry Level Software Engineer Jobs in Park Ridge, IL

Android Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$140K - $160K/yr

... entry-level positions to the C-suite. With units specializing in Accounting and Finance ... Engineering, Marketing, Technology, Supply Chain, Revenue Cycle, Call Center, Human Resources and ...

Design Engineer I

Chicago, IL · On-site

$33 - $48/hr

In this entry-level role, you will collaborate with experienced engineers and designers to develop ... Proficiency in AutoCAD Civil 3D or similar design software is highly desirable. * Strong math and ...

In this entry-level role, you will collaborate with experienced engineers and designers to develop ... Proficiency in AutoCAD Civil 3D or similar design software is highly desirable. * Strong math and ...

Design Engineer I

Chicago, IL · On-site

$33 - $48/hr

In this entry-level role, you will collaborate with experienced engineers and designers to develop ... Proficiency in AutoCAD Civil 3D or similar design software is highly desirable. * Strong math and ...

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Entry Level Software Engineer information

See Park Ridge, IL salary details

$23.6K

$103.2K

$186K

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

As of Jul 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level software engineer in Park Ridge, IL is $103,185.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $64,000.00 and $118,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Will AI replace developers in 2026?

Entry level software engineers will continue to play a vital role in software development, as AI tools are designed to assist rather than fully replace human programmers. Developing skills in coding, problem-solving, and understanding AI integration will remain valuable in the evolving tech environment.

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

AspectEntry Level Software EngineerSoftware Developer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in CS or related field; some internshipsBachelor's in CS or related; coding experience
Work EnvironmentTeam-based, collaborative projects, entry-level tasksProject-focused, coding, debugging, and implementation
Employer & Industry UsageTech companies, startups, IT departmentsSoftware firms, tech startups, enterprise IT
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Entry Level Software Engineers and Software Developers often share similar educational backgrounds and work environments. The main difference lies in their roles: engineers may focus more on designing systems and architecture, while developers typically concentrate on coding and implementation. Both roles are essential in tech industries and often overlap in job functions, but understanding these distinctions helps job seekers target the right positions.

What engineer makes $500,000 a year?

Highly experienced software engineers, especially those in senior or specialized roles such as machine learning engineers or software architects at large tech companies, can earn $500,000 or more annually. These roles often require advanced skills, extensive experience, and sometimes stock options or bonuses as part of compensation packages.

How to get a job as a software engineer with no experience?

Entry-level software engineer positions often require demonstrating programming skills through personal projects, internships, or coding bootcamps. Building a strong portfolio, learning relevant tools like Git and languages such as Python or Java, and obtaining certifications can improve chances of securing an entry-level role without prior work experience.

What types of projects do entry level software engineers typically work on, and how do they collaborate with other team members?

Entry level software engineers often start by working on smaller features, bug fixes, or assisting with testing and documentation within larger projects. They usually collaborate closely with senior engineers, product managers, and QA teams through code reviews, daily stand-ups, and pair programming sessions. This structure helps new engineers learn best practices, understand the codebase, and gradually take on more complex assignments. Effective communication and a willingness to learn are key to success in these collaborative environments.

What does an entry level software engineer do?

An entry level software engineer is responsible for assisting in the design, development, testing, and maintenance of software applications. They typically work under the guidance of more experienced engineers and may write code, debug programs, and participate in code reviews. The role often involves learning company-specific tools and workflows, collaborating with team members, and continuously improving technical skills. Entry level software engineers are expected to adapt quickly, communicate effectively, and contribute to the team's overall goals.

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

To thrive as an Entry Level Software Engineer, you need a solid understanding of programming languages (such as Java, Python, or C++), computer science fundamentals, and often a relevant bachelor’s degree. Familiarity with version control systems like Git, development frameworks, and basic software development tools is typically expected. Strong problem-solving abilities, eagerness to learn, and effective collaboration are standout soft skills in this role. These skills are crucial for building reliable software, adapting to evolving technologies, and contributing productively to team projects.

What Does an Entry Level Software Engineer Do?

An Entry-Level Software Engineer, also called a Junior Engineer, works with a team of mid-level and senior engineers to develop, test, and maintain software applications and programs. The job duties of Junior Software Engineers typically include relatively simple routine tasks, such as debugging, testing, and code documentation. These tasks hone a Junior Engineer’s skills and familiarize them with the company’s code base. As Software Engineers gain more years of experience, they work on more complex development projects.

Is it true that AI will replace software engineers?

AI is unlikely to fully replace entry-level software engineers, as human skills such as problem-solving, creativity, and understanding complex requirements remain essential. AI tools can assist with coding and automation, but software engineering involves tasks that require critical thinking and collaboration. Developing proficiency in programming languages and understanding AI capabilities can enhance job performance and adaptability in the field.
What are the most commonly searched types of Software Engineer jobs in Park Ridge, IL? The most popular types of Software Engineer jobs in Park Ridge, IL are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Software Engineer jobs in Park Ridge, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Software Engineer jobs in Park Ridge, IL are:
What cities near Park Ridge, IL are hiring for Entry Level Software Engineer jobs? Cities near Park Ridge, IL with the most Entry Level Software Engineer job openings:
2026 Associate Software Digital Engineer - Rolling Meadows IL - Rolling Meadows IL

2026 Associate Software Digital Engineer - Rolling Meadows IL - Rolling Meadows IL

Northrop Grumman Corporation

Rolling Meadows, IL • On-site

$77K - $116K/yr

Full-time

This job post has expired 4 days ago. Applications are no longer accepted.


Northrop Grumman rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 349 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

109th of 528 rated manufacturers


Job description

Northrop Grumman Mission Systems is a trusted provider of mission-enabling solutions for global security. We have a wide portfolio of secure, affordable, integrated, and multi-domain systems and technologies. Our differentiated battle management and cyber solutions deliver timely, mission-enabling information and provide superior situational awareness and understanding to protect the U.S. and its global allies.
Entry Level opportunities at Northrop Grumman are unique. Are you interested in boosting your knowledge through experience and exposure, while supporting a mission that seeks to protect our nation and its allies? If so, then Northrop Grumman is the place you!
Our professionals live and breathe different perspectives; we are curious about the world, accepting each other, and aware that the more ideas, backgrounds, opinions and experiences we bring to our work, the stronger that work will be. Just as you would invest your time and hard work into our company, we focus on investing back into you through enriching professional experiences and high-quality learning and development opportunities. We want you to bring your whole self to work, and for you to have meaningful connections with your coworkers, customers and communities, while providing the best products, systems and technologies to protect our world.
The qualified candidate will become part of Northrop Grumman's Multidomain Sensing, Targeting and Survivability (MSTS) Division. Rolling Meadows employees are all about redefining what's possible in the realms of navigation, targeting, and state-of-the-art self-protection. The systems that they design, build, integrate and test are created with the dynamics of present and future operational stakes in mind.
Northrop Grumman is seeking Software/Digital Technology (SW/DT) Engineers. This position will be located at our Mission Systems Sector in Rolling Meadows, IL.
You'll Have an Opportunity to:
  • Bring ideas into reality by designing and developing digital logic for our advanced mission solutions
  • Gain hands-on exposure to the programmable logic full life-cycle: design, simulation, implementation, verification, and system integration
  • Implement and debug designs in simulations and on real hardware
  • Collaborate directly with experienced engineers to solve design challenges, get feedback, and learn best practices
  • Engage in a full life-cycle approach-- design, implementation, test verification, production of digital electronic equipment and other hardware systems

Basic Qualifications:
A candidate must meet ALL of the below criteria. The candidate must:
  • Be completing or has completed their degree (Bachelor's, Master's, or PhD) from an accredited institution
  • Be majoring in or having majored in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, or Electrical Engineering
  • A final DoD Secret clearance is required to start (U.S. citizenship is a pre-requisite)
  • The ability to obtain Special Access Program within a reasonable period of time, as determined by the company to meet its business needs.

Preferred Qualifications:
Have an overall cumulative GPA of 3.0/4.0 or higher
  • A current/active DoD Secret clearance
  • Strong communicator and team player who also has the ability to work independently
  • It will be helpful, though not required, for your course work to have included):
  • Digital design exposure, with experience in VHDL, Verilog, System Verilog
  • Digital logic basics (combinatorial vs sequential logic, truth tables, finite state machines), digital building blocks (gates, flip flops, latches, timers, etc.) basics of setup / hold times, clock domains
  • VHDL or Verilog syntax, writing basic modules and test benches
  • Familiarity with vendor tools (Vivado, Quartus, etc.) and exposure to FPGA development workflow: coding, through synthesis and implementation on device
  • Some experience with scripting and high-level programming (MATLAB, Python, C/C++)

Pay Range: Bachelors: $77,700 - $116,500
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About Northrop Grumman

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work - and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible.

Industry

Space research administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Falls Church, VA, US

Year founded

1939