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

As a Senior Associate, you will analyze complex problems, mentor junior team members, and build ... databases and embedding models - Track record of fine-tuning models on domain-specific data ...

As a Senior Associate, you will analyze complex problems, mentor junior team members, and build ... databases and embedding models - Track record of fine-tuning models on domain-specific data ...

Senior Data Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$109K - $148K/yr

... database, and the only research-driven, evidence-based early intervention system available in ... Providing technical mentorship and guidance to junior engineers * Acting as a technical SME in ...

Senior Data Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$109K - $148K/yr

... database, and the only research-driven, evidence-based early intervention system available in ... Providing technical mentorship and guidance to junior engineers * Acting as a technical SME in ...

Senior Data Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site +1

$109K - $148K/yr

... database, and the only research-driven, evidence-based early intervention system available in ... Providing technical mentorship and guidance to junior engineers * Acting as a technical SME in ...

Senior Data Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site +1

$109K - $148K/yr

... database, and the only research-driven, evidence-based early intervention system available in ... Providing technical mentorship and guidance to junior engineers * Acting as a technical SME in ...

Mentor junior engineers and consultants on data engineering best practices, coding standards, cloud ... Expertise in Java, Python or any scripting language, SQL/NoSQL Database systems. * Experience in ...

Senior Data Engineer

Bolingbrook, IL · On-site

$102K - $140K/yr

Mentor junior engineers and consultants on data engineering best practices, coding standards, cloud ... Expertise in Java, Python or any scripting language, SQL/NoSQL Database systems. * Experience in ...

Mentor junior engineers and consultants on data engineering best practices, coding standards, cloud ... Expertise in Java, Python or any scripting language, SQL/NoSQL Database systems. * Experience in ...

Junior Developer

Barrington, IL

$66K - $86K/yr

Experience with relational databases like oracle, sql server * Creative Problem solver. * Excellent ... The support engineer will be responsible for handling tier 2 help desk tasks that involve ...

Senior Data Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$109K - $148K/yr

Mentor and support junior data engineers through code reviews, pairing, and guidance on design and implementation. * Perform performance tuning, cost optimization, and reliability improvements in ...

Senior Data Engineer

Chicago, IL

$109K - $148K/yr

Mentor and support junior data engineers through code reviews, pairing, and guidance on design and implementation. * Perform performance tuning, cost optimization, and reliability improvements in ...

The Junior Web Developer supports the design, development, maintenance, and enhancement of web ... Support database integrations and SQL development Collaborate on enhancements and new feature ...

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Showing results 1-20

Junior Database Engineer information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$34.5K

$74K

$112.9K

How much do junior database engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for junior database engineer in Chicago, IL is $74,022.00, 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 the difference between Junior Database Engineer vs Database Administrator?

AspectJunior Database EngineerDatabase Administrator
Required CredentialsTypically a bachelor's degree in Computer Science or related field; certifications like Microsoft SQL Server or Oracle are a plusSame as Junior Database Engineer; often requires certifications like Oracle Certified Professional or Microsoft Certified Database Administrator
Work EnvironmentEntry-level role focused on assisting with database development, testing, and maintenanceResponsible for overall database performance, security, backups, and troubleshooting
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in tech companies, finance, healthcare, and any organization managing data systemsCommon in large enterprises, IT departments, and organizations with complex data needs

The main difference between a Junior Database Engineer and a Database Administrator lies in their responsibilities. Junior Database Engineers focus on assisting with database development and testing, while Database Administrators handle ongoing management, security, and optimization of databases. Both roles require similar credentials and are vital in data-driven organizations, but the DBA role typically involves more experience and responsibility.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Junior Database Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Junior Database Engineer, you need a solid understanding of database concepts, SQL, and basic programming skills, typically supported by a degree in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with database management systems such as MySQL, PostgreSQL, or Oracle, and certifications like Microsoft Certified: Azure Data Fundamentals can be advantageous. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication are standout soft skills for this role. These skills ensure accurate data management, efficient troubleshooting, and seamless collaboration within technical teams.

What are some common challenges faced by Junior Database Engineers when managing database performance?

Junior Database Engineers often encounter challenges such as optimizing slow queries, managing growing data volumes, and ensuring database reliability. Balancing performance tuning with security and data integrity requirements can be tricky, especially when working on live production systems. Many teams support junior engineers with mentorship and code reviews, but developing troubleshooting skills and familiarity with monitoring tools is essential for growth in this role.

What does a Junior Database Engineer do?

A Junior Database Engineer assists in designing, implementing, and maintaining databases under the supervision of more experienced engineers. Their responsibilities often include writing basic queries, ensuring data integrity, performing backups, and troubleshooting database issues. They may also help optimize database performance and support application developers with database-related needs. This role serves as an entry point for building expertise in database administration and engineering.
What are the most commonly searched types of Database Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Database Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What are popular job titles related to Junior Database Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL? For Junior Database Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Junior Database Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Junior Database Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Junior Database Engineer jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Junior Database Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Junior Database Engineer job openings in Chicago, IL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $74,022 per year, or $35.6 per hour.

Experienced Database Administrator

Gainwell Technologies LLC

Chicago, IL • On-site

$88K - $127K/yr

Other

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 19 days ago


Gainwell Technologies rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 78 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

135th of 241 rated software companies


Job description

Be part of a team that unleashes the power of leading-edge technologies to help improve the health and well-being of those most vulnerable in our country and communities. Working at Gainwell carries its rewards. You'll have an incredible opportunity to grow your career in a company that values work flexibility, learning, and career development. You'll add to your technical credentials and certifications while enjoying a generous, flexible vacation policy and educational assistance. We also have comprehensive leadership and technical development academies to help build your skills and capabilities.
Summary
As an Experienced Database Administrator at Gainwell, you will leverage your expertise to design, develop, and maintain database systems that support critical healthcare operations. You will collaborate with technical and business teams to deliver scalable, secure, and high-performing database solutions. This role plays a key part in enabling data-driven decision-making and supporting clients in improving outcomes for the populations they serve.
Your role in our mission
  • Lead client and project engagements to assess requirements and define database design strategies
  • Analyze user needs and develop technical specifications ensuring performance, security, and data integrity
  • Design, develop, implement, and maintain database solutions, including automation of data processes and reporting capabilities
  • Monitor and optimize database performance, manage production support activities (e.g., backup/recovery, archiving), and implement standards
  • Drive continuous improvement by maintaining documentation, evaluating emerging technologies, and providing guidance to junior team members

What we're looking for
  • 8+ years of experience in database engineering, design, and development across enterprise environments
  • Strong expertise in SQL Server (including AOAG), PostgreSQL (including Aurora), and AWS services (RDS, EC2)
  • Experience with database design methodologies and development in multi-tenant environments
  • Proficiency in scripting and automation using tools such as PowerShell, Bash, Python, or similar
  • Strong performance tuning, monitoring, and troubleshooting skills using tools such as SolarWinds DPA, SQL Query Store, pgAdmin, Prometheus, Grafana, or AWS CloudWatch, along with strong analytical and communication skills

What you should expect in this role
  • Remote-based opportunity within the United States
  • Opportunities to travel through your work (0-10%)
  • Video cameras must be used during all interviews, as well as during the initial week of orientation
  • The deadline to submit applications for this posting is 8/30/2026

The pay range for this position is $88,000 - $127,000 per year, however, the base pay offered may vary depending on geographic region, internal equity, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience among other factors. Put your passion to work at Gainwell. You'll have the opportunity to grow your career in a company that values work flexibility, learning, and career development. All salaried, full-time candidates are eligible for our generous, flexible vacation policy, a 401(k) employer match, comprehensive health benefits , and educational assistance. We also have a variety of leadership and technical development academies to help build your skills and capabilities.
We believe nothing is impossible when you bring together people who care deeply about making healthcare work better for everyone. Build your career with Gainwell, an industry leader. You'll be joining a company where collaboration, innovation, and inclusion fuel our growth. Learn more about Gainwell at our company website and visit our Careers site for all available job role openings.
Gainwell Technologies is an Equal Opportunity Employer, where all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, gender (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical condition), age, sexual orientation, status as a protected veteran, status as an individual with a disability, or other applicable legally protected characteristics. Gainwell Technologies defines "wages" and "wage rates" to include "all forms of pay, including, but not limited to, salary, overtime pay, bonuses, stock, stock options, profit sharing and bonus plans, life insurance, vacation and holiday pay, cleaning or gasoline allowances, hotel accommodations, reimbursement for travel expenses, and benefits.

What Gainwell Technologies employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


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About Gainwell Technologies

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

With Health and Cost outcomes that pierce Inequities and Impact Economies, the success of our Nation’s Federal Medicaid program is inextricably tied to the Prosperity of Communities, States and the Nation as a whole. We think that deserves Respect and a Commitment from Innovators who can help those who operate within and around health and human services evolve to meet their goals. At Gainwell, that’s our Sole focus. Built across more than Five Decades, Gainwell has intentionally seized opportunities to advance its digitally enabled services to meet Agencies, Health plans and MCOs where they are on their modernization journeys and propel them into the future of Healthcare. Equally important to our Expanding Technologies and Results. We bring ideas that bring policies to life.

Industry

Health care and social assistance

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Irving, TX, US