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Startup Software Developer Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

QT9 Software, Inc.

.NET Developer - QMS

Aurora, IL

NET Developer for our QMS team. In this role, you will design, develop, and maintain complex .NET ... Founded in 2005, we have grown from a startup into a globally trusted software company while ...

Permute AI, Inc

Senior Software Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$180K - $280K/yr

Permute (www.permute.ai) Overview Permute is seeking a Senior Software Engineer to design, build, and deploy production-grade AI systems in a fast-moving startup environment. This role is for ...

New

blueStone

Ruby Developer

Chicago, IL · On-site

Looking for an mid level software developer to work on our Backend platform. If you are interested in working in a startup environment and you're passionate about web development, then you'll fit ...

Civis Analytics

Software Engineer (Contract)

Chicago, IL · On-site +1

$90K/yr

... software developer/engineer * Familiarity with AI/ML concepts and experience building and ... The opportunity to be part of a growing tech startup focused on solving interesting and meaningful ...

Civis Analytics

Software Engineer (Contract)

Chicago, IL · On-site +1

$90K/yr

... software developer/engineer * Familiarity with AI/ML concepts and experience building and ... The opportunity to be part of a growing tech startup focused on solving interesting and meaningful ...

Civis Analytics

Software Engineer (Contract)

Chicago, IL · On-site +1

$90K/yr

... software developer/engineer * Familiarity with AI/ML concepts and experience building and ... The opportunity to be part of a growing tech startup focused on solving interesting and meaningful ...

Supernova Technology

Junior Software Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$80K - $100K/yr

About the Role We are looking to fill an entry level software engineer to learn from our top ... Ability to adapt to the dynamic and changing nature of a startup company and developer roles Our ...

SageSure

Staff Software Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

... of a startup, we're hiring. SageSure, a leader in catastrophe-exposed property insurance, is ... improve software delivery and developer effectiveness. We're looking for someone who has:

JCSI

Software Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

Improve CI/CD pipelines, DevOps practices, and development workflows * Troubleshoot and resolve ... Experience working in high-growth SaaS or startup environments * Experience leveraging analytics ...

MessageControl

Senior Software Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$126K - $166K/yr

As a Software Engineer at MessageControl you'll be building intelligent products to protect people ... You've previously worked at a startup or think you'll enjoy working on many things you've never ...

MessageControl

Senior Software Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site +1

$126K - $166K/yr

As a Software Engineer at MessageControl you'll be building intelligent products to protect people ... You've previously worked at a startup or think you'll enjoy working on many things you've never ...

ITW Avery Weigh-Tronix

Embedded Software Engineer

IL · On-site

$135K - $178K/yr

Objective of role: The Embedded Software Engineer is responsible for the design, development ... to startup behavior, communication failures, timing issues, memory, and interaction between ...

Miller Cooper

Full Stack Software Engineer

Chicago, IL · Remote

$125K - $145K/yr

Full Stack Software Engineer RCM Platform Are you ready to join a cutting-edge healthcare startup dedicated to revolutionizing the industry through innovative technologies? Our client, National ...

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Showing results 1-20

All JobsStartup Software Developer JobsStartup Software Developer Jobs in Illinois

Startup Software Developer information

See Illinois salary details

$46.5K

$108.4K

$160.9K

How much do startup software developer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for startup software developer in Illinois is $108,381.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $87,200.00 and $126,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a startup software developer do?

A Startup Software Developer is responsible for designing, developing, testing, and maintaining software applications in a fast-paced startup environment. Their work often involves working closely with founders and small teams to build products from the ground up, rapidly iterating based on user feedback. They may handle a variety of tasks beyond coding, such as participating in product discussions, troubleshooting issues, and sometimes even contributing to deployment and infrastructure decisions. Flexibility, adaptability, and a willingness to learn new technologies are crucial in this role. The job often requires balancing speed with quality while adapting to the evolving needs of the startup.

What are some unique challenges faced by software developers working at startups compared to larger companies?

Startup software developers often encounter a fast-paced and dynamic work environment where priorities can shift rapidly as the business evolves. Unlike larger companies with well-defined processes and teams, startup developers may need to wear multiple hats, handle a broader range of tasks, and take full ownership of projects from ideation to deployment. This can be both challenging and rewarding, as it requires adaptability, strong problem-solving skills, and the ability to work independently while collaborating closely with a small, cross-functional team. The learning curve can be steep, but it offers excellent opportunities for growth and making a visible impact.

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

To thrive as a Startup Software Developer, you need strong programming skills, experience with full-stack development, and a solid understanding of software engineering principles, usually supported by a degree in computer science or related fields. Familiarity with agile project management tools, version control systems like Git, and modern frameworks such as React or Node.js is highly valued. Adaptability, creativity, and effective communication are essential soft skills for navigating rapidly changing requirements and collaborating in small, dynamic teams. These skills and qualities are crucial for delivering innovative solutions quickly and driving success in the fast-paced startup environment.

What is the difference between Startup Software Developer vs Software Engineer?

AspectStartup Software DeveloperSoftware Engineer
CredentialsTypically requires a bachelor's degree in CS or related fieldUsually requires a bachelor's or higher in CS or related field
Work EnvironmentFast-paced, dynamic startup settingVaries from corporate to tech firms, often structured
Industry UsageCommon in startups and small tech companiesWidespread across industries and company sizes
Job FocusBuilding new products, rapid development, versatile rolesDesigning, developing, testing software systems

Startup Software Developers and Software Engineers share similar educational backgrounds and work in tech environments, but Startup Software Developers often work in fast-paced, flexible roles focused on building new products in startup settings. Software Engineers may work in more structured environments with broader industry applications.

Do startup software developer jobs pay well?

Startup software developer jobs can offer competitive salaries, especially for those with strong coding skills and experience in popular programming languages. Compensation varies based on the company's funding stage, location, and the developer's expertise, with some startups offering equity or stock options as part of the package.

What are the most commonly searched types of Startup Software Developer jobs in Illinois?

The most popular types of Startup Software Developer jobs in Illinois are:

Startup Software Developer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Startup Software Developer job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $108,381 per year, or $52.1 per hour.

Automation Software Developer (DCS) - Manufacturing

Chicago, IL • On-site

MAPEI S.p.A.
See more jobs at MAPEI S.p.A.external

$100 - $114/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 10 days ago

Job description

Automation Software Developer (DCS) - Manufacturing

West Chicago, IL, United States

Job Description

Join MAPEI Corporation, a global leader in the manufacturing of construction chemicals and building materials, including adhesives, sealants, and specialty products used in flooring, tile, and concrete restoration. We’re looking for an Automation Software Developer (DCS) to lead the design, implementation, and optimization of automation systems that support our operations across the U.S. and Canada. Reporting to the Director of Operations – Canada, this role will collaborate with cross‑functional teams in both countries, with a preferred base in the United States. The ideal candidate combines technical development skills with strong analytical thinking and project coordination expertise.

Key Responsibilities
  • Design, implement, and maintain process automation systems
  • Collaborate with process engineers on P&IDs, utility lists, instrumentation tags, and layout optimization
  • Define project scopes, estimate budgets, and prepare technical specifications for field instrumentation and the DCS
  • Issue RFQs, evaluate technical proposals, and support procurement activities
  • Oversee installations, track deliveries, and manage AS-BUILT documentation updates.
  • Develop operator interfaces, configure logic, visualization, and field I/O; support contract programmers as needed.
  • Lead system testing, startup, and commissioning of automation applications
Maintenance & Support
  • Perform updates and preventive maintenance on DCS/PLC hardware and software
  • Troubleshoot and reconfigure control logic, alarms, and visualization settings
  • Guide field technicians in diagnosing equipment issues and ensuring system performance
  • Conduct jobsite visits, manage supplier testing, and ensure systems meet technical requirements
Process Optimization & Compliance
  • Set operational limits, define alarms, and analyze control system data to improve performanceGenerate trends for key metrics (e.g., pressure, temperature, flow, valve position)
  • Maintain system documentation and procedures
  • Monitor new technologies and recommend upgrades aligned with budget and safety standards.
  • Adhere to all policies, procedures and instructions as defined in our Quality Management System (QMS), Employee Handbook, Health and Safety manual, or any other instruction issued by the company.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.
What's in it for you
  • In this role, you will earn a competitive base salary ranging from $100,000 to $114,000 per year, depending on your experience and qualifications.
  • This position is also eligible for an annual discretionary bonus, which is a variable percentage of your base salary, based on individual performance and company results.
  • FREE MEDICAL INSURANCE for our employees or the option of a highly competitive medical plan with minimal monthly employee contributions.
  • 17 Days of paid, sick and vacation time annually (days are prorated in year one).
  • 401K retirement with up to 6% matching program.
  • Excellent dental, vision programs, flex spending accounts, employer paid life insurance and free tele-med physician services.
  • Various other company employee‑centric perks initiatives; tuition reimbursement programs, discounted home/auto insurance programs, supplemental life insurance, and more.
Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree (B.S.) from a four‑year College or University in Engineering
  • Minimum of three years of related experience or an equivalent combination of training and experience, preferably in a manufacturing setting.
  • Working knowledge of PLC programming software including but not limited to Allen Bradley, Omron and Siemens.
  • HMIs, SCADA or DCS programming experience is a plus.
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook, and PowerPoint within a Windows environment.
  • Valid U.S. driver’s license
  • Ability to travel required.

Equal Opportunity Employer – Minority/Female/Disability/Veteran (M/F/D/V)

Job Info
  • Job Identification 4427
  • Job Category ENGINEERING & MAINTENANCE
  • Posting Date 04/30/2026, 06:22 PM
  • Degree Level Bachelor's Degree
  • Job Schedule Full time
  • Locations 530 Industrial Dr, Saint Charles, IL, 60174, US
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