Internship Backend Engineer Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

The Software Engineer Intern implements developer tools or product features on a rapid-release cycle. You will work in an agile development methodology to conduct code reviews and unit tests, contributing to Workiva's software under the guidance of a senior developer.

What You'll Do

• Implement developer tools or product features under the direction of a senior developer
• Contribute as either a backend or frontend engineer depending on project needs
• Build and maintain user-facing features using TypeScript/JavaScript as part of frontend development
• Develop backend services in Java to support Global Search adoption and scalability
• Assist with building and extending functionality in Workiva Assistant using TypeScript
• Track job assignments and complete status updates using internal tools
• Work in an Agile development methodology, attend standups, define user stories, and implement development tasks
• Complete code reviews and unit tests

What You'll Need

Minimum Qualifications

• Currently enrolled in a degree-seeking program, preferably in Software Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field of study

Preferred Qualifications

• Passion for writing software and learning the latest software development techniques
• Excellent verbal, written, and interpersonal communication skills
• Self-motivated with strong propensity for action, results, and continuous improvement
• The ability to work successfully in a high-energy, fast-paced, rapidly changing environment
• Exceptional organizational skills with the ability to multi-task and manage multiple processes, programs, and procedures simultaneously while working under pressure to meet deadlines
• A solid foundation in computer science, with competencies in data structures, algorithms, and object-oriented software design
• Some experience in one or more of Python, Go, Java, C/C++/C#, Dart, or JavaScript
• Additional exposure to client frameworks like React or Angular, Google App Engine, Amazon EC2, database design, knowledge of HTTP and web protocols
• Based on team assignment, may require/prefer: a solid foundation in computer science, with competencies in data structures, algorithms, and object-oriented software design; some experience in one or more of Python, Go, Java, C/C++/C#, and SQL; additional exposure to REST/SOAP APIs, Google App Engine, Amazon AWS, database design, knowledge of HTTP and web protocols
• Displays a high degree of ownership and drive to be the better version of themselves everyday.

Travel Requirements & Working Conditions

• Minimal travel
• Reliable internet access for any period of time working remotely and not in a Workiva office

Location: This internship is primarily a remote opportunity. However, if you are located near one of our office hubs, you are welcome to work in a hybrid capacity and utilize our office spaces. Check out our article on Workplace Flexibility to learn more.

When can you expect to hear back?

We are committed to attending all career fairs and recruitment events before closing our positions. That means, this position might be open without updates for a few weeks to give us time to connect with all potential candidates before wrapping up the recruitment season. Check out our tentative timeline below to see when you can expect to hear from us!

Postings close: September 27, 2026

Engineering postings close: October 2, 2026

Interviews: Early to mid October

Offers: Late October

2027 Start Dates:

This position has opportunities to start in the Spring or Summer. Please see our start dates below and let us know your availability in your application.

Spring 2027 Internships: Monday, January 4, 2027 (15-20 hours per week max)

Summer 2027 Internships: Monday, May 17, 2027 (40/hours per week max)

How You’ll Be Rewarded

Salary range in the US: $40.00 - $40.00 401(k) participation and match

Paid sick leave

A unique opportunity to further your learning experience through additional internship seasons

Why Join Workiva

Workiva is the platform designed to bring confidence, control, and a competitive edge to the world’s most complex organizations. Our AI-powered platform unifies finance, risk, and sustainability on a single, secure foundation-ensuring data is trusted, traceable, and ready to act on. With an unbroken path from source to output, leaders gain confidence in their numbers, visibility into current and emerging risks, and the ability to move with speed and precision in a constantly changing world.

At Workiva, you’ll bring technology to market that executives, boards, and regulators depend on. The work you do here helps organizations navigate uncertainty, maintain trust, and make decisions that stand up to scrutiny. If you’re energized by meaningful challenges, inspired by collaborative teams, and motivated to help organizations turn uncertainty into advantage, we’d love to meet you.

Employment decisions are made without regard to age, race, creed, color, religion, sex, national origin, ancestry, disability status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetic information, marital status, citizenship status or any other protected characteristic.

Workiva is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodations to applicants with disabilities. To request assistance with the application process, please email earlycareer@workiva.com .

Workiva employees are required to undergo comprehensive security and privacy training tailored to their roles, ensuring adherence to company policies and regulatory standards.

Workiva supports employees in working where they work best - either from an office or remotely from any location within their country of employment.