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Research Engineer Entry Level Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

RFA Engineering

Embedded Software Engineer

Chillicothe, IL · On-site

$75K - $115K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

We are seeking an entry-level to experienced candidate to become an integral part of our ... Work with software architects and developers to research and investigate project-specific ...

CRRC Sifang America

Assistant Mechanical Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

Ensure the assembly process carried out according to the guidelines provided by R&D and Technical Engineer division of our parent company and meet the customer's requirements. * Process the ...

Gotion, Inc.

Junior Equipment Engineer

Manteno, IL · On-site

... has R&D centers in Ohio, China, Japan and Europe. We innovate in the next generation electric ... This is an excellent entry-level opportunity for an early-career engineer seeking to build ...

Actalent

Civil Engineer

Morris, IL · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

This entry-level to early-career position is designed to build your professional engineering skills ... Research and review municipal, county, state, and federal codes and regulations relevant to project ...

RINA

Power Electrical System Engineer

Lisle, IL

We are seeking a motivated Entry-Level Electrical Engineer with an emphasis in power systems to ... research & development sectors. Our business model covers the full process of project development ...

RINA

Power Electrical System Engineer

Lisle, IL · On-site

We are seeking a motivated Entry-Level Electrical Engineer with an emphasis in power systems to ... research & development sectors. Our business model covers the full process of project development ...

Gotion, Inc.

Junior Equipment Engineer

Manteno, IL

... IL, with R&D centers in Ohio, China, Japan, and Europe. We innovate next-generation electric ... This is an excellent entry-level opportunity for an early-career engineer seeking to build ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsResearch Engineer JobsResearch Engineer Entry Level JobsResearch Engineer Entry Level Jobs in Illinois

Research Engineer Entry Level information

See Illinois salary details

$35.9K

$102.7K

$138.1K

How much do research engineer entry level jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for research engineer entry level in Illinois is $102,729.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $100,800.00 and $100,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level research engineer?

To thrive as an Entry Level Research Engineer, you need a solid background in engineering principles, data analysis, and problem-solving, usually supported by a bachelor's degree in a related field. Familiarity with technical tools such as MATLAB, Python, CAD software, and laboratory instrumentation is typically expected. Strong communication, curiosity, and teamwork skills help you collaborate effectively and adapt to new challenges. These skills are vital for conducting innovative research, generating actionable insights, and contributing value to multidisciplinary engineering teams.

What is the difference between Research Engineer Entry Level vs Research Scientist?

AspectResearch Engineer Entry LevelResearch Scientist
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in engineering, science, or related fieldBachelor's or Master's degree, often PhD in a specialized science
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, R&D departments, technical teamsResearch institutions, labs, academic settings
Employer & Industry UsageTech companies, manufacturing, engineering firmsUniversities, government agencies, research labs
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Research Engineer Entry Level roles focus on applying engineering principles to develop and test new products or systems, often working closely with design and manufacturing teams. Research Scientists typically conduct fundamental scientific research, analyze data, and publish findings. While both roles involve research, engineers are more application-oriented, whereas scientists focus on theoretical and experimental science. The roles often overlap in research settings, but their primary goals and work environments differ.

What does a research engineer entry level do?

A Research Engineer Entry Level assists in the development and testing of new technologies, products, or processes under the supervision of senior engineers or scientists. Their tasks often include conducting experiments, collecting and analyzing data, and preparing technical reports. These engineers work in various industries such as technology, manufacturing, or academia, and are typically recent graduates with a bachelor's or master's degree in engineering or a related field. Entry-level research engineers often collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to solve technical problems and contribute to innovative projects.

What types of projects and technologies do entry level research engineers typically work on, and how do they contribute to a larger team?

Entry-level Research Engineers often support senior engineers and scientists by conducting experiments, analyzing data, and developing prototypes. They may work on projects involving machine learning, robotics, material science, or software development, depending on the organization's focus. Collaboration is a key part of the role, as entry-level engineers frequently work in interdisciplinary teams, contribute to group meetings, and assist in publishing findings or preparing technical documentation. This environment provides excellent opportunities to learn from experienced colleagues and grow technical expertise.
What are the most commonly searched types of Research Engineer jobs in Illinois? The most popular types of Research Engineer jobs in Illinois are:
What are popular job titles related to Research Engineer Entry Level jobs in Illinois? For Research Engineer Entry Level jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Research Engineer Entry Level jobs in Illinois look for? The top searched job categories for Research Engineer Entry Level jobs in Illinois are:
Research Engineer Entry Level jobs near you
Infographic showing various Research Engineer Entry Level job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 86% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $102,729 per year, or $49.4 per hour.

Embedded Software Engineer

RFA Engineering

Chillicothe, IL • On-site

$75K - $115K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 27 days ago

Job description

RFA Engineering (www.rfamec.com) is an engineering service provider dedicated to delivering our clients with timely engineering support and expertise. We are seeking an entry-level to experienced candidate to become an integral part of our engineering team. The selected candidate will work with an experienced engineering staff using state-of-the-art engineering tools & processes. This position will operate onsite at our customer's world-class engineering and manufacturing facility.
This is a full-time position with a full benefit package listed below that includes opportunities for professional growth, direct hire by our customers, and additional opportunities within our own organization.
Embedded Software Engineer
This position is associated with the design and development of embedded software applications that control machine operations and functions used in heavy equipment, power systems, and off-highway vehicles. Development methods include C/C++ programming language and Model Based Software Design. Testing methods include bench testing, computer simulation testing, hardware-in-the-loop testing, and machine testing.
Responsibilities
  • Feature by feature embedded software development per Software Requirements Documents for applications that control machine and vehicle functions.
  • Integration of software in a multi-developer team environment using modern software development practices.
  • Functional and integration testing prior to hand-off to software test and evaluation groups.
  • Development and release status tracking using Agile development methodologies.
  • Creation and support of software used for prototype and production machine programs.
  • Troubleshoot and provide solutions for issues discovered during software development and validation activities.
  • Creation of software design documentation.
  • Design, develop, and modify software features and libraries used in embedded control systems.
  • Work with software architects and developers to research and investigate project-specific applications.
  • Develop and execute test cases to perform unit testing, integration testing, and regression testing.
  • Collaborate with electrical, systems, validation, and manufacturing teams to ensure successful product integration.
  • Support root cause investigations related to software and machine performance concerns.

Requirements
  • BS in Software, Computer, Electrical, or other relevant Engineering degree.
  • Experience with C or C++ development.
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills.
  • Self-motivated, quick learner, with an any-problem-can-be-solved attitude.
  • Good organizational and time management skills.
  • Ability to identify needed actions and act to resolve issues.
  • Ability to communicate technical information effectively.
  • Ability to thrive in a team environment.
  • Must have a valid Driver's License.

Desired Attributes
  • Experience with CAN J1939 & LIN communication protocols.
  • Experience with Simulink/Matlab Model Based Software Design.
  • Experience with GitHub or similar version control systems.
  • General machine knowledge of vehicles, mobile equipment, or heavy equipment.
  • Able to read/understand electrical schematics.
  • Experience with embedded controls or machine control systems.
  • Experience with Agile software development processes.
  • Desire to work in an engineering environment focused on advanced machine control technologies.

Visa sponsorship is NOT available for this position.
Pay Range: $75,000-$115,000 - Commensurate with experience
About RFA Engineering
RFA Engineering has provided product development and engineering services to industry leading customers since 1943. Our primary focus is the development of off highway equipment including agricultural, construction, mining, recreational, industrial, and special machines. Our work includes concept development, product design, documentation, problem-solving, simulation, optimization, and testing of components, systems and complete machines. Our engineering staff is located at our Engineering Center in Minneapolis, branch office in Dubuque, IA, and at numerous customer sites throughout the U.S.
Competitive Benefits
  • Health and Dental Insurance
  • Health Savings Account
  • TelaDoc: Virtual Health Care
  • Vision Insurance
  • Company Paid / Supplemental Life Insurance
  • Company Paid Long-Term Disability
  • Supplemental Short-Term Disability
  • Retirement Savings Account (Traditional 401k & Roth 401k)
  • Flexible Spending Plan Dependent Care
  • Bonus Plan (Exempt Employees Only)
  • Paid Time Off (PTO)
  • Paid Holidays
  • Bereavement Leave
  • Employee Assistance Programs (EAP)
  • Education Assistance

Equal Opportunity and Veteran Friendly
#ZR
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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