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Remote Junior Developer Jobs in Kankakee, IL (NOW HIRING)

Remote Junior Developer information

See Kankakee, IL salary details

$23.1K

$85.5K

$132.2K

How much do remote junior developer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for remote junior developer in Kankakee, IL is $85,537.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $64,400.00 and $83,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Remote Junior Developer, you need foundational programming knowledge in languages like JavaScript, Python, or Java, and typically a relevant degree or coding bootcamp certification. Familiarity with version control systems such as Git, basic knowledge of cloud platforms, and experience using collaboration tools like Slack or Jira are commonly required. Strong communication, self-motivation, and time management skills help you excel in a remote team environment. These skills and qualities are crucial for effectively contributing to projects, learning quickly, and maintaining productivity without in-person supervision.

What are some common challenges remote junior developers face when starting their first remote job, and how can they overcome them?

Remote Junior Developers often encounter challenges such as communication barriers, feelings of isolation, and difficulty managing time without in-person supervision. To overcome these, it's important to proactively engage in team meetings, ask questions frequently, and use collaboration tools effectively. Setting a structured daily schedule and seeking mentorship or regular check-ins with a more experienced developer can also provide guidance and support. Building relationships with team members through virtual channels helps foster a sense of belonging and keeps you connected to the team's goals.

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

AspectRemote Junior DeveloperRemote Software Engineer
Required CredentialsTypically an associate degree or bootcamp certificationBachelor's degree in CS or related field
Work EnvironmentRemote, often entry-level projectsRemote, more complex projects, possibly team lead roles
Industry UsageCommon in startups and small companiesWidespread across tech firms and large organizations
Search & Comparison IntentOften compared for entry-level roles and career growthCompared for advanced responsibilities and salary expectations

The main difference between a Remote Junior Developer and a Remote Software Engineer lies in experience, responsibilities, and qualifications. Junior Developers are typically entry-level, focusing on basic coding tasks, while Software Engineers handle more complex projects and have more experience. Both roles are remote-friendly and common in tech industries, but Software Engineers usually require a higher level of education and experience.

What is a remote junior developer?

Remote Junior Developers are entry-level software developers who work from remote locations instead of a traditional office setting. They assist in designing, coding, testing, and maintaining software applications under the guidance of more experienced developers. This role often involves collaborating with team members through online tools and requires good communication and time management skills. Remote Junior Developers typically have foundational programming knowledge and are eager to learn and grow in their careers.
What job categories do people searching Remote Junior Developer jobs in Kankakee, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Remote Junior Developer jobs in Kankakee, IL are:
What cities near Kankakee, IL are hiring for Remote Junior Developer jobs? Cities near Kankakee, IL with the most Remote Junior Developer job openings:
Infographic showing various Remote Junior Developer job openings in Kankakee, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 79% Full Time, 3% Part Time, and 18% Contract. Highlights an 81% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 15% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $85,537 per year, or $41.1 per hour.

Mechanical Research & Development Engineer

The Pennsylvania State University

Campus, IL • On-site, Remote

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 8 days ago


Job description

APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS:
  • CURRENT PENN STATE EMPLOYEE (faculty, staff, technical service, or student), please login to Workday to complete the internal application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.
  • CURRENT PENN STATE STUDENT (not employed previously at the university) and seeking employment with Penn State, please login to Workday to complete the student application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.
  • If you are NOT a current employee or student, please click "Apply" and complete the application process for external applicants.

Approval of remote and hybrid work is not guaranteed regardless of work location.For additional information on remote work at Penn State, seeNotice to Out of State Applicants.

POSITION SPECIFICS

We are searching for a high motivated Mechanical Research and Development Engineer to join our Advanced Design & Analysis Department at the Applied Research Laboratory (ARL) at Penn State. This role will involve designing, analyzing, and testing structures and systems, including multi-material assemblies, including fiber-reinforced polymer composite structures and other advanced materials.
ARL is an authorized DoD SkillBridge partner and welcomes all transitioning military members to apply.
You will:

  • Perform analytical and computational modeling to evaluate system and structural behavior, component interactions, and overall design performance

  • Develop detailed mechanical designs and assemblies using mechanical CAD software

  • Conduct laboratory testing to validate analytical models

  • Flexibly to adapt across a variety of technical tasks, including CAD modeling, scripting in MATLAB/Python, analytical modeling, and supporting experimental testing

  • Collaborate closely with senior engineers, receiving mentorship in modeling, design methodologies, and interdisciplinary engineering practices

  • Support system and subsystem integration efforts by analyzing interfaces, ensuring compatibility, and contributing to the development of fully integrated system architectures

  • Perform detailed finite element analysis of multimaterial systems as part of broader design and integration activities, supporting structural evaluation, system modeling, and engineering decisionmaking

Additional responsibilities for higher-level position includes:

  • Support research conducted within Unclassified, Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI), and Classified environments while safeguarding sensitive technical information and government-furnished data

  • Participate in technology transition activities, including system integration, operational demonstrations, customer evaluations, manufacturing support, and field implementation

  • Identify technical risks and develop mitigation strategies to improve program execution, system performance, reliability, maintainability, and mission effectiveness

  • Initiate and contribute to business development activities through technical concept development, customer engagement, proposal preparation, Independent Research and Development (IRAD) initiatives, and strategic technology planning

  • Mentor and provide technical leadership to junior engineers, engineering technologists, engineering support personnel, interns, and students

  • Maintain technical expertise through continued professional development, participation in technical working groups, awareness of emerging technologies, and engagement with the defense research community


Required Skills/Experience areas include:

  • Finite element analysis (FEA) modeling and structural analysis of multi-material systems

  • CAD software, such as SolidWorks, Creo, or NX

  • Programming skills (MATLAB/Python)

  • Ability to quickly adapt to diverse engineering tasks and changing project priorities

  • Demonstrated collaboration within a multidisciplinary team

Preferred Skills/Experience areas include:

  • Abaqus or similar advanced FEA software

  • Past success with multimaterial assemblies and integrated system architectures

  • Mechanical testing methods and laboratory experiments

  • Modeling, subsystem integration, or interface analysis

Your working location will be full on-site located in State College, PA.

MINIMUM EDUCATION, WORK EXPERIENCE & REQUIRED CERTIFICATIONS

If filled as R&D Engineer - Mechanical (ARL) - Advanced Professional, this position requires: Bachelor's Degree - Engineering or Science 5+ years of relevant experience Required Certifications: None If filled as R&D Engineer - Mechanical (ARL) - Intermediate Professional, this position requires: Bachelor's Degree - Engineering or Science 2+ years of relevant experience Required Certifications: None

ARL's purpose is to research and develop innovative solutions to challenging scientific, engineering, and technology problems in support of the Navy, the Intel Community (IC), and other federal government customers.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION on ARL, visit our website atwww.arl.psu.edu.

BACKGROUND CHECKS/CLEARANCES

Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies.Notice regarding employment at the Applied Research Laboratory (ARL): Employees must be eligible to obtain a government security clearance, participate in the ARL drug testing program, and comply with electronic and physical monitoring requirements applicable to federal contractors. ARL operates in a secure information environment involving Unclassified, Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI), and Classified information. Personal electronic devices brought onsite must be registered and may be restricted from certain areas. You must be a U.S. citizen to apply.

SALARY & BENEFITS

The salary range for this position, including all possible grades, is $105,900.00 - $200,808.00.

Salary Structure - Information on Penn State's salary structure

Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full-time employees designed to support both personal and professional well-being. In addition to comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, employees enjoy robust retirement plans and substantial paid time off which includes holidays, vacation and sick time. One of the standout benefits is the generous 75% tuition discount, available to employees as well as eligible spouses and children. For more detailed information, please visit our Benefits Page.

CAMPUS SECURITY CRIME STATISTICS

Pursuant to the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act and the Pennsylvania Act of 1988, Penn State publishes a combined Annual Security and Annual Fire Safety Report (ASR). The ASR includes crime statistics and institutional policies concerning campus security, such as those concerning alcohol and drug use, crime prevention, the reporting of crimes, sexual assault, and other matters. The ASR is available for review here.

EEO IS THE LAW

Penn State is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact 814-865-1473.

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About Pennsylvania State University

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Pennsylvania State University, often referred to as Penn State, is a major, public, research-intensive university located in University Park, PA, US. This esteemed institution serves as an important player within the education industry, offering a plethora of academic programs across various disciplines. The university was founded in 1855 with the mission to provide quality education, advanced research, and service to society. Penn State holds firmly to values of integrity, respect, and excellence, fostering a diverse and inclusive community. The university is renowned for its research productivity and its high-ranking programs in areas like engineering, business, and education. One notable achievement of the institution is its designation as a "R1: Doctoral Universities – Very high research activity," demonstrating its commitment to scholarship and discovery.

Industry

Education

Company size

11 - 50 Employees

Headquarters location

University Park, PA, US

Year founded

1855

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