ZipRecruiter

Log In

2

Test Engineer Entry Level Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

RFA Engineering

Quality/Test Engineer

Chillicothe, IL · On-site

$70K - $95K/yr

We are seeking an entry level to experienced candidate to become an integral part of our ... Quality/Test Engineer The selected candidate will work with an experienced engineering staff ...

langan

Civil Engineer - Entry Level

Chicago, IL · On-site

$65K - $84K/yr

Effectively use reports, maps, drawings, engineering plans, test and aerial photographs to assess soil composition, terrain, hydrological characteristics and topographical and geologic data and their ...

langan

Civil Engineer - Entry Level

Chicago, IL

$65K - $84K/yr

Effectively use reports, maps, drawings, engineering plans, test and aerial photographs to assess soil composition, terrain, hydrological characteristics and topographical and geologic data and their ...

langan

Environmental Engineer - Entry Level

Chicago, IL · On-site

$65K - $84K/yr

Monitor construction projects by taking various tests to evaluate whether the contractor or ... Bachelor's degree in Environmental Engineering; * 0-2 years of work-related experience; * EIT ...

langan

Environmental Engineer - Entry Level

Chicago, IL · On-site +1

$65K - $84K/yr

Monitor construction projects by taking various tests to evaluate whether the contractor or ... Bachelor's degree in Environmental Engineering; * 0-2 years of work-related experience; * EIT ...

Zentech Manufacturing I

Test Operator

Bloomington, IL · On-site

$17/hr

PCB Manufacturing Tester (Entry-Level) Position Summary Zentech. is seeking a detail-oriented ... Work closely with production, quality, and engineering teams to support manufacturing goals.

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsTest Engineer JobsTest Engineer Entry Level JobsTest Engineer Entry Level Jobs in Illinois

Test Engineer Entry Level information

See Illinois salary details

$17

$42

$72

How much do test engineer entry level jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for test engineer entry level in Illinois is $42.87, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $32.36 and $50.77 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry level test engineer?

Entry-level Test Engineers are professionals who begin their careers in quality assurance and testing of software or hardware products. They are responsible for designing and executing test cases, identifying bugs, and ensuring that products meet specified requirements. These roles typically involve working closely with development teams to understand features and potential issues, and they often use both manual and automated testing tools. Entry-level positions are ideal for recent graduates or individuals new to the testing field, offering valuable experience and training.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level test engineers when working on cross-functional teams?

Entry-level Test Engineers often encounter challenges such as understanding varying technical terminologies used by developers, aligning testing priorities with fast-paced development cycles, and effectively communicating defect reports to both technical and non-technical stakeholders. Building strong collaboration skills and proactively seeking clarification can help overcome these hurdles. Over time, entry-level Test Engineers gain confidence in participating in team meetings, advocating for quality, and contributing to a shared understanding of project goals.

What is the difference between Test Engineer Entry Level vs Test Technician?

AspectTest Engineer Entry LevelTest Technician
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in engineering, computer science, or related fieldAssociate degree or technical certification in electronics or testing
Work EnvironmentDesigning test plans, analyzing data, developing testing proceduresExecuting tests, maintaining testing equipment, recording results
Industry UsageUsed across software, electronics, and manufacturing industriesCommonly found in electronics, manufacturing, and hardware testing sectors

Test Engineer Entry Level roles focus on designing and analyzing tests, requiring a bachelor's degree, while Test Technicians primarily execute tests and maintain equipment, often with technical certifications. Both roles are essential in quality assurance but differ in responsibilities and educational requirements.

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

To thrive as an Entry Level Test Engineer, foundational knowledge of software testing principles, basic programming skills, and a relevant degree (such as in computer science or engineering) are essential. Familiarity with automated testing tools like Selenium, bug tracking systems such as Jira, and version control systems like Git is typically required. Strong attention to detail, analytical thinking, and effective communication help individuals excel in this role. These skills and qualities are vital to ensure software quality, accurate defect reporting, and effective collaboration within development teams.
What are the most commonly searched types of Test Engineer jobs in Illinois? The most popular types of Test Engineer jobs in Illinois are:
Test Engineer Entry Level jobs near you
Infographic showing various Test Engineer Entry Level job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $89,177 per year, or $42.9 per hour.

Quality/Test Engineer

RFA Engineering

Chillicothe, IL • On-site

$70K - $95K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 24 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 facilities.
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.
Quality/Test Engineer
The selected candidate will work with an experienced engineering staff supporting quality, validation, testing, reliability, and continuous improvement activities associated with engines, powertrain systems, cast components, and off-highway construction and mining equipment. Work may involve laboratory testing, machine testing, failure analysis, root cause investigations, product validation, manufacturing quality support, and supplier quality activities. The work will be highly collaborative with engineering, manufacturing, validation, quality, and supplier teams.
Responsibilities
  • Support quality, validation, and testing activities for engine, powertrain, and off-highway equipment programs.
  • Develop and execute test plans, test procedures, and validation activities.
  • Collect, analyze, and interpret test data to evaluate product performance, reliability, and durability.
  • Investigate product, component, and system failures and perform root cause analysis.
  • Support prototype, pilot, and production build activities.
  • Work with engineering, manufacturing, and supplier teams to resolve quality concerns.
  • Support APQP activities, FMEA development, and product validation processes.
  • Participate in product improvement, cost reduction, and product health initiatives.
  • Support reliability, durability, and performance testing activities.
  • Create and maintain test documentation, reports, and quality records.
  • Collaborate with suppliers and internal teams to implement corrective and preventive actions.
  • Support factory operations through troubleshooting and quality improvement activities.
  • Travel to supplier or customer sites pending project needs (up to ~10%).

Requirements
  • Bachelor's of Science in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or related technical field.
  • Entry level candidates and experienced candidates will be considered.
  • Strong analytical, troubleshooting, and problem-solving skills.
  • Excellent communication both written and verbal.
  • Demonstrated ability to meet deadlines and commitments.
  • Ability to thrive in a team environment.
  • Ability to travel (less than 10% of time).

Desired Attributes
  • Experience with APQP (Advanced Product Quality Planning).
  • Experience with FMEA, root cause analysis, and corrective action processes.
  • Experience with validation, testing, reliability, or quality engineering activities.
  • Experience with data collection and test data analysis.
  • Experience supporting manufacturing operations and production environments.
  • Experience with quality systems and continuous improvement methodologies.
  • Exposure to engines, powertrain systems, off-road equipment, heavy machinery, or industrial products.
  • Experience working with suppliers and cross-functional teams.
  • Desire to work in an engineering environment focused on product quality, reliability, and performance.

Visa sponsorship is NOT available for this position.
Pay Range: $70,000-$95,000 - 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
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.

Apply