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Junior Backend Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Jr. ASIC Design Engineer

Batavia, IL · On-site

$70K - $93K/yr

We are looking for a Junior ASIC Design Engineer to lead and contribute to research activities and ... Experience with industry-standard front-end and back-end CAD/EDA design tools, such as Cadence ...

Senior Software Engineer

Oak Brook, IL · On-site

$123K - $163K/yr

... backend developers on the design, development, testing and deployment of our next generation ... They also mentor junior engineers, contribute to technical strategy, and collaborate with cross ...

Junior Software Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$80K - $100K/yr

... back-end development that drives our platform, and develop skills for hands-on coding within our ... This is the perfect opportunity for a passionate software developer to get his or her foot in the ...

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Junior Backend Engineer information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$34.5K

$74K

$112.9K

How much do junior backend engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for junior backend engineer in Chicago, IL is $74,020.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $50,000.00 and $82,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a junior backend engineer?

Junior Backend Engineers are entry-level software developers who focus on building and maintaining the server-side components of web applications. They work with databases, APIs, and server logic to ensure that applications function smoothly and efficiently. Typically, they collaborate with frontend engineers, follow best coding practices, and learn from more experienced team members while gaining hands-on experience with backend technologies such as Node.js, Python, Java, or Ruby.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a junior backend engineer?

To thrive as a Junior Backend Engineer, you need a solid understanding of server-side programming languages (such as Python, Java, or Node.js), relational and non-relational databases, and a relevant degree or coding bootcamp experience. Familiarity with version control systems like Git, RESTful API development, and cloud platforms (e.g., AWS or Azure) is typically expected. Strong problem-solving, collaboration, and communication skills help you work effectively with cross-functional teams and adapt to changing requirements. These skills ensure that you can contribute reliable, maintainable code and support the scalability and security of backend systems.

What are some common challenges faced by junior backend engineers during their first year on the job?

Junior Backend Engineers often encounter challenges such as understanding complex codebases, integrating with legacy systems, and managing time effectively while learning new technologies. Collaborating with cross-functional teams and following best practices for code reviews can also be new experiences. Most teams provide mentorship and code review sessions to support growth, and it's common to gradually take on more responsibility as confidence and skills increase.

What is the difference between Junior Backend Engineer vs Backend Developer?

AspectJunior Backend EngineerBackend Developer
Required CredentialsTypically a bachelor's degree in CS or related field; some certificationsSimilar credentials; often more experience or certifications
Work EnvironmentEntry-level, team-based projects, supervised tasksMid-level to senior projects, more autonomous roles
Industry UsageCommon in tech companies, startups, and software firmsWidespread across industries requiring backend solutions
Search & Comparison IntentOften searched by beginners or those exploring rolesCompared for experience level or career progression

The main difference between a Junior Backend Engineer and a Backend Developer lies in experience and responsibility. Junior Backend Engineers are typically entry-level, focusing on learning and supporting development tasks under supervision. Backend Developers usually have more experience, handling complex projects independently. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds and are common in tech industries, but the level of autonomy and project complexity distinguishes them.

What are the most commonly searched types of Backend Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Backend Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Junior Backend Engineer jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Junior Backend Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Junior Backend Engineer job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $74,022 per year, or $35.6 per hour.

Senior Backend Engineer

FIS Management Services LLC

Chicago, IL • On-site

$100 - $130/hr

Other

Posted 14 days ago


Job description

About the Team

We are a premier digital transformation partner for financial institutions committed to the future of banking and to creating safe and personalized customer experiences that help people better manage their financial lives.

A Day in the Life

As a Senior Software Engineer, you will collaborate with a talented team of engineers and play a crucial role in developing cutting‑edge solutions that drive innovation in the financial sector. You will develop and implement scalable software, troubleshoot complex issues, and contribute to the overall success of our products.

What We’ll Trust You to Deliver
  • Take the lead in developing and delivering high‑quality software solutions.
  • Mentor junior team members and foster a culture of continuous learning and improvement.
  • Engage in full‑stack development, from backend systems to user interfaces.
  • Work with technologies such as Java, JavaScript, TypeScript, RESTful APIs, microservices, and event‑driven architecture.
  • Collaborate with cross‑functional teams, including product managers, UX designers, and QA engineers, to bring innovative features to market.
  • Participate in agile development processes and deliver results efficiently.
  • Analyze complex technical problems and propose effective solutions.
  • Identify areas for improvement and optimize existing systems for performance and reliability.
  • Uphold high standards of code quality, security, and best practices.
  • Conduct code reviews and contribute to coding standards.
  • Stay abreast of industry trends and emerging technologies.
  • Contribute to the company’s technological roadmap by introducing innovative ideas.
What You Likely Bring to the Table
  • 5+ years of experience in software engineering, preferably in SaaS or FinTech.
  • Degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or a related field.
  • Strong proficiency in Java, SpringBoot, and Micronaut, with deep understanding of RESTful APIs and microservices.
  • Hands‑on experience with PostgreSQL, Redis, and cloud‑native environments (AWS, Kubernetes, Docker).
  • Familiarity with CI/CD pipelines (Jenkins, Git) and modern software engineering practices.
  • Experience with Jira, Confluence, and similar project management tools.
  • Demonstrated ability to analyze and solve complex technical problems.
  • Track record of delivering robust and scalable software solutions.
  • Excellent collaboration and communication skills.
  • Ability to work effectively in a team‑oriented environment and contribute to an inclusive workplace culture.
  • Passion for innovation and a keen interest in emerging technologies.
Tech Stack
  • Java, SpringBoot, Micronaut, Temporal
  • ActiveMQ, PostgreSQL, Redis
  • ReactJs, Kubernetes, AWS
  • Jenkins, Git
EEO Statement

FIS is an equal‑opportunity employer. We evaluate qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, genetic information, national origin, disability, veteran status, and other protected characteristics.

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