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Junior Computer Engineer Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Control Engineer

Chicago, IL

$86K - $111K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

... junior engineers and provide technical leadership * Continuously learn and apply new automation technologies and best practices Qualifications: * Bachelor's degree in Electrical, Mechanical, Computer ...

Junior Software Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$80K - $100K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

BA/BS or MA/MS degree in Computer Science or a related technical field or equivalent practical experience * Knowledge or experience with one or more general purpose programming languages including ...

Senior Systems Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$107K - $147K/yr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... Lead/mentor junior team members. - Take ownership of and leading projects from start to finish ... Computer Science, Computer Engineering or an equivalent field. - Strong Linux experience working ...

Senior Systems Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$107K - $147K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Lead/mentor junior team members * Taking ownership of and leading projects from start to finish ... Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering or an equivalent field * Experience ...

Senior Systems Engineer

Chicago, IL

$107K - $147K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Lead/mentor junior team members * Taking ownership of and leading projects from start to finish ... Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering or an equivalent field * Experience ...

Senior FPGA Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$133K - $172K/yr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... Lead/mentor junior team members. - Take ownership of and lead projects from start to finish ... Qualifications: - Bachelor's or Master's degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering ...

Showing results 41-60

Junior Computer Engineer information

See Illinois salary details

$32.5K

$69.6K

$106.1K

How much do junior computer engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for junior computer engineer in Illinois is $69,575.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $47,000.00 and $77,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a junior computer engineer do?

A Junior Computer Engineer typically assists in designing, developing, testing, and maintaining computer hardware and software systems. They work under the supervision of senior engineers to help troubleshoot technical issues, write code, and support hardware integration. This entry-level role often involves learning company-specific processes, collaborating with other team members, and gaining hands-on experience in various engineering tasks. The goal is to build foundational skills and knowledge for career growth in computer engineering.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a junior computer engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Junior Computer Engineer, you need a solid understanding of computer hardware, programming languages (such as C++ or Python), and a relevant bachelor’s degree in computer engineering or a related field. Familiarity with development tools, version control systems like Git, and basic circuit design software is typically required. Strong problem-solving, teamwork, and communication skills help you effectively collaborate and adapt to technical challenges. These skills and qualities are essential for delivering reliable engineering solutions and contributing effectively to project teams.

What types of projects and tasks can a junior computer engineer expect to work on during their first year?

As a Junior Computer Engineer, you can expect to work on a variety of tasks that support both hardware and software development teams. Common responsibilities include assisting with troubleshooting hardware issues, writing and testing code for embedded systems, updating technical documentation, and supporting senior engineers with research or prototype development. You'll often collaborate with cross-functional teams, such as software developers, hardware designers, and quality assurance specialists, gaining exposure to different stages of the engineering process. This hands-on experience helps you build foundational skills and offers opportunities to gradually take on more complex projects as you grow in the role.

What is the difference between Junior Computer Engineer vs Software Developer?

AspectJunior Computer EngineerSoftware Developer
Required CredentialsAssociate's or Bachelor's in Computer Engineering or related fieldBachelor's in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or related field
Work EnvironmentHardware and software integration, testing, troubleshootingDesigning, coding, testing software applications
Employer & Industry UsageTech companies, hardware firms, embedded systemsIT firms, software companies, startups
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for entry-level roles in techRelated but more focused on software development tasks

Junior Computer Engineers typically focus on hardware-software integration, testing, and troubleshooting, requiring a background in computer engineering. Software Developers primarily design and code software applications, often with a background in computer science. Both roles are entry-level but differ in their core responsibilities and work environments.

What are the most commonly searched types of Computer Engineer jobs in Illinois?

The most popular types of Computer Engineer jobs in Illinois are:

What cities in Illinois are hiring for Junior Computer Engineer jobs?

Cities in Illinois with the most Junior Computer Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Junior Computer Engineer job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 87% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 80% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 19% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $69,575 per year, or $33.4 per hour.

$86K - $111K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 27 days ago


Job description

Do you enjoy solving technical challenges and working with both programming and electrical/mechanical systems? Our client's Control Engineers design, develop, and commission automation solutions across a wide range of industries while working with cutting-edge technologies. Engineers in this position collaborate closely with clients, manage multiple projects, and contribute to both technical execution and customer relationships. The role is ideal for someone who thrives in a fast-paced consulting environment and enjoys learning new technologies while taking ownership of projects from concept through commissioning.

As a well-established engineering consulting firm with over 20 years in business, they are known for delivering innovative automation and custom software solutions for manufacturing, testing, and product development applications. You will gain exposure to a variety of industrial automation systems and technologies, including PLCs, HMI/SCADA platforms, motion control, robotics, and machine vision. You should be comfortable leading or supporting technical teams, mentoring junior engineers, and traveling to customer sites for startup and troubleshooting activities.

Reasons you will be excited to work here:

  • Project-based company that fosters ongoing exploration and growth
  • Every employee interfaces with customers, allowing you to develop sales, project management, and business development skills.
  • Full benefits package: Medical, Dental, Vision, Health savings and flex spending accounts, paid parental leave, 401K Matching, competitive salaries, profit sharing, and bonuses.
  • They foster an inclusive, collaborative team environment.
  • Work with a team of smart professionals.
  • Take part in many company-sponsored events and activities.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Develop and program automation applications using PLC, HMI, and SCADA platforms
  • Commission and troubleshoot electrical and mechanical systems at customer sites
  • Support system architecture design and full project lifecycle execution
  • Work directly with customers while managing project communication and deliverables
  • Mentor junior engineers and provide technical leadership
  • Continuously learn and apply new automation technologies and best practices

Qualifications:

  • Bachelor’s degree in Electrical, Mechanical, Computer Engineering, or related field (REQUIRED)
  • 3–10 years of industrial automation experience
  • Highly preferred college GPA 3.4 or higher
  • Strong programming background, including object-oriented and text-based programming
  • Experience with PLCs, motion control, process control, robotics, machine vision, and SCADA systems
  • Ability to manage multiple projects and work directly with customers
  • Strong communication and proposal development skills
  • Willingness to travel approximately 25–40%

To comply with some state laws, the annual base salary range for this position has been provided. The range given is broad and should be considered as a guideline only. Our client will consider a candidate’s work experience, education/training, key skills, the salaries of current employees in similar roles, and other factors when extending an offer.