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New Grad Software Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

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New Grad Software information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$40.7K

$95.4K

$185.9K

How much do new grad software jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for new grad software in Chicago, IL is $95,386.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $58,200.00 and $113,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between New Grad Software vs Software Engineer?

AspectNew Grad SoftwareSoftware Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in CS or related field, internship experienceTypically requires similar credentials, often with more experience
Work EnvironmentEntry-level, training-focused, collaborative teamsMore autonomous, project leadership opportunities
Employer & Industry UsageCommonly used for entry-level roles across tech companiesUsed for mid-level and senior roles, but also for entry-level positions

In summary, New Grad Software roles are designed for recent graduates entering the tech industry, focusing on training and skill development. Software Engineer positions may require more experience but often share similar credentials. The main difference lies in experience level and scope of responsibilities, with New Grad Software roles serving as a stepping stone to more advanced Software Engineer positions.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a New Grad Software Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a New Grad Software Engineer, you need a solid grasp of computer science fundamentals, programming languages (such as Java, Python, or C++), and a relevant degree like a BS in Computer Science or related field. Familiarity with version control systems (e.g., Git), software development tools, and exposure to frameworks or cloud platforms are highly valued. Strong problem-solving skills, eagerness to learn, and effective communication help new grads collaborate and adapt in team environments. These skills are crucial for quickly contributing to projects, growing professionally, and ensuring code quality within dynamic tech teams.

What types of projects can a New Grad Software Engineer expect to work on in their first year?

As a New Grad Software Engineer, you can expect to work on a variety of projects ranging from bug fixes and feature enhancements to participating in the development of new products or internal tools. Early assignments often focus on onboarding and familiarizing you with the codebase, tools, and development practices, while gradually increasing in complexity as you gain confidence. Collaboration with more experienced engineers, product managers, and quality assurance teams is common, providing opportunities to learn best practices and contribute to team goals. Many companies also encourage new grads to participate in code reviews and team meetings, helping you build both technical and communication skills.

Does Microsoft hire new grads?

Microsoft hires new graduates for software engineering roles, often through its university recruiting programs. Candidates typically need a relevant degree in computer science or related fields, strong coding skills, and familiarity with tools like Azure or Visual Studio. The company offers internships and entry-level positions to recent graduates seeking to start their software careers.

What are New Grad Software roles?

New Grad Software roles are entry-level positions in the technology industry designed specifically for recent graduates with degrees in computer science, software engineering, or related fields. These positions offer opportunities to learn and grow within a professional environment, often featuring mentorship, training programs, and exposure to various aspects of software development. New grads in these roles typically work on real-world projects, collaborate with experienced engineers, and build foundational skills necessary for a successful tech career. Employers expect strong problem-solving abilities, familiarity with programming languages, and a willingness to learn.

What is L1, L2, L3, and L4 developer?

In software development, especially for new grads, L1, L2, L3, and L4 often refer to different levels of developer seniority or experience. L1 typically indicates entry-level or junior developers, while L2 and L3 represent increasing levels of experience and responsibility, with L4 often being senior or lead developers. These levels can vary by company but generally reflect a developer's technical skills, project ownership, and leadership capabilities.

Can you make $500,000 as a software engineer?

Software engineers can earn $500,000 or more annually, primarily through senior roles, specialized skills, or working at large tech companies with stock options and bonuses. Achieving this level often requires extensive experience, advanced technical skills, and sometimes leadership responsibilities or equity compensation.

Is it true that AI will replace software engineers?

AI is expected to automate certain repetitive coding tasks, but software engineers are essential for designing, developing, and maintaining complex systems. AI tools can enhance productivity and support decision-making, but they are unlikely to fully replace the need for skilled software engineers who handle problem-solving, architecture, and innovation.
What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for New Grad Software jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most New Grad Software job openings:
Infographic showing various New Grad Software job openings in Chicago, IL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 25% Internship, and 75% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $95,386 per year, or $45.9 per hour.
Software Engineer Internship - Guadalajara, Mexico

Software Engineer Internship - Guadalajara, Mexico

Paylocity

Schaumburg, IL • On-site

Internship

Posted 17 days ago


Paylocity rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 68 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

162nd of 451 rated business services


Job description

Description:

Why Work at Paylocity

Paylocity is an award-winning provider of cloud-based HR and payroll software solutions, offering the most complete platform for the modern workforce. The company has become one of the fastest-growing HCM software providers worldwide by offering an intuitive, easy-to-use product suite that helps businesses automate and streamline HR and payroll processes, attract and retain talent, and build a strong workplace culture.
While traditional HR and payroll providers automate basic HR processes such as payroll and benefits administration, Paylocity goes further by developing tools that HR and businesses need to compete for talent and deliver against the expectations of the modern workforce.


Early careers

Bring your talent and eagerness to learn to Paylocity, where you’ll discover the skills needed to launch your career!

Benefit from award-winning training and one-on-one coaching as you play a key role in Paylocity’s future with an early careers position.

Explore how you can go from the classroom to the conference room with internships and new-grad programs at one of Glassdoor's Best Places to Work.

Experience the support that’ll take you from grad to a flourishing career with a position in Paylocity’s early careers division!


Position Overview

Our Product & Technology organization operates in small, mission-focused agile teams responsible for building and maintaining Paylocity’s cloud-based platform. Software Engineers at Paylocity typically operate as full stack developers, contributing across frontend user interfaces, backend services, and APIs. Engineers are involved throughout the full software development lifecycle, from design and implementation through testing, deployment, and ongoing improvement.

As an intern, you will contribute to well-scoped development work, learn modern engineering practices, and gain exposure to how high-quality software is built and delivered at scale. With mentorship and guidance, you will write production-quality code and collaborate closely with your team to deliver real outcomes.


In-Office: This is a 100% in-office role based in Guadalajara, Mexico. Remote or hybrid work is not available for this position. Candidates must be able to work on-site five days per week during designated work hours.


Timeframe: January 2027- May 2027


  • The responsibilities below represent the primary duties of the role. With support from mentors and teammates, you will
  • Desgin, implement, and modify software across frontend, backend and service layers within defined scope and timelines
  • Contribute to user-facing features, APIs, and supporting services under guidance from senior engineers
  • Write clean, well-documented code following established coding standards and best practices
  • Collaborate with Software Test Engineers to ensure features are tested and production-ready
  • Participate in code reviews and incorporate feedback to improve code quality
  • Implement and maintain automated tests for assigned features
  • Debug issues and contribute to root cause analysis and problem resolution
  • Participate actively in agile ceremonies, including stand-ups, sprint planning, and retrospectives
  • Document technical decisions and solutions clearly
  • Work closely with product and design partners to understand requirements and tradeoffs

Required Qualifications
  • Currently pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or a related technical field
  • Final-year student or graduating within 6–9 months of internship start
  • Strong foundation in computer science fundamentals
  • Experience with at least one programming language used in modern web or service-based applications (e.g., C#, Java, JavaScript, Python, or similar)
  • Understanding of basic software development principles and object-oriented design
  • Familiarity with version control systems (e.g., Git)
  • Ability to work effectively in a collaborative, team-oriented environment
  • Excellent command of the English language, with the ability to communicate effectively in both written and spoken English in a professional, technical environment
Nice to Have (Not Required)
  • Prior internship, co-op, or meaningful academic project experience
  • Exposure to automated testing frameworks
  • Familiarity with agile software development practices
  • Experience working with modern web or cloud-based applications
  • Exposure to full stack development concepts, including frontend frameworks, backend services, or API-driven architectures
  • Exposure to AI or machine learning concepts through coursework, projects, or practical experimentation (e.g., using AI-assisted development tools, building small models, or integrating AI APIs)


What You Will Learn
  • How software is designed, built, tested, and delivered in a professional product organization
  • How to collaborate effectively with engineers, QA, and product partners
  • How to write production-quality code that meets quality and performance standards
  • How to participate in code reviews and technical discussions
  • How to balance delivery, quality, and maintainability
Growth and Conversion Opportunity

This internship is designed to prepare interns for future full-time opportunities at Paylocity. High-performing interns may be considered for conversion into an Associate Software Engineer role upon graduation, based on performance, business needs, and available headcount.


Our Journey Forward

At Paylocity, we believe diverse perspectives strengthen our teams. We are proud to be an equal opportunity employer and are committed to creating an inclusive environment where everyone can grow and succeed.


Paylocity is an equal-opportunity employer. Paylocity is committed to the full inclusion of all individuals. We recruit, train, compensate, and promote regardless of race, religion, color, national origin, sex, disability, age, veteran status, and other protected status as required by applicable law. At Paylocity, we believe diversity makes us better.


We embrace and encourage our employees’ differences in age, culture, ethnicity, family or marital status, gender identity or expression, language, national origin, physical and mental ability, political affiliation, race, religion or spiritual belief, sexual orientation, socio-economic status, veteran status, and other characteristics that make our employees unique. We actively cultivate these differences through our employee resource groups (ERGs), employee experiences, perspectives, talents, and approaches to drive innovation in the software and services we provide our customers.


We comply with federal and state disability laws and make reasonable accommodations for applicants and employees with disabilities. To request reasonable accommodation in the job application or interview process, please contact accessibility@paylocity.com. This email address is exclusively designated for such requests, aligning with federal and state disability laws. Please do not send resumes to this email address, as they will be removed.


Your personal data will be processed for recruitment purposes in accordance with our Notice of Privacy Practices for Mexico Job Applicants and applicable Mexican data protection laws.



Requirements:



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