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Test Engineer Entry Level Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Senior Project Engineer

Northbrook, IL · On-site

$103K - $138K/yr

Establishes appropriate test programs by reviewing files and manufacturer's information, examining ... Trains office, field, and/or laboratory staff and entry level engineers. * Provides technical ...

Mechanical Engineer I

Schaumburg, IL · Hybrid

$66K - $95K/yr

... (entry-level candidates encouraged to apply) * Strong proficiency in 3D CAD software (SolidWorks ... We encourage you to test your strengths, push your limits, and unleash your potential. If you feel ...

Description We are in search of an Entry-level Field Service Engineer to join our Power & Water ... tests and/or product evaluation, and provide complete and timely reports on all activities with ...

New

Showing results 41-60

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 Jul 26, 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 are Test Engineer Entry Level positions?

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, and why are they important?

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:
Infographic showing various Test Engineer Entry Level job openings in Illinois as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 91% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $89,177 per year, or $42.9 per hour.
Sr. Assoc Technologist-Test/Validation

Sr. Assoc Technologist-Test/Validation

Caterpillar

Mossville, IL • On-site

$89K - $133K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 6 days ago


Caterpillar Inc. rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 474 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

264th of 485 rated machine equipment manufacturers


Job description

Career Area:
Engineering
Job Description:
Your Work Shapes the World at Caterpillar Inc.
When you join Caterpillar, you're joining a global team who cares not just about the work we do - but also about each other. We are the makers, problem solvers, and future world builders who are creating stronger, more sustainable communities. We don't just talk about progress and innovation here - we make it happen, with our customers, where we work and live. Together, we are building a better world, so we can all enjoy living in it.
About the role:
The Large Power Systems Division has an opening for an Associate Technologist-Test/Validation at the Mossville Tech Center in Mossville, Illinois. This role is an entry level, non-engineering degreed position, where job assignments are planned to provide experience and familiarization with the technical staff, methods, practices, and programs of the company and assigned area. This role will also provide support for planning, executing, troubleshooting, validating, and summarizing results of 3500 diesel products in Tech Center L. This position has responsibility for key performance, certification, and validation test deliverables.
Job responsibilities will Include but are not limited to:
  • Learn and assist: to gain an understanding of Caterpillar's business, products, systems, and procedures; to learn and develop skills which result from the practical application of basic engineering knowledge
  • Provide assistance to a project team or others in the work group
  • Work in any number of functional areas requiring a technical expertise, including, but not limited to, product design, development, research, metallurgy, quality, reliability, materials, manufacturing process, application and installation, product performance/support, service, and facilities
  • Perform needed analysis and initiate ideas
  • Evaluate new products, processes, or systems
  • Communicate results to customers, suppliers, team members, and other business units
  • Contribute to the design of new products and processes
  • Perform product and process maintenance; support other engineers, technologists, managers, marketing personnel, customers, and suppliers

Skills you will have:
  • Analytical Thinking: Working knowledge of techniques and tools that promote effective analysis; ability to determine the root cause of organizational problems and create alternative solutions that resolve these problems.
  • Effective Communications: Working understanding of effective communication concepts, tools and techniques; ability to effectively transmit, receive, and accurately interpret ideas, information, and needs through the application of appropriate communication behaviors.
  • Project Management: Basic knowledge of effective project management strategies and tactics; ability to plan, organize, monitor, and control projects, ensuring efficient utilization of technical and administrative resources to achieve project objectives.
  • Product Testing: Working knowledge of product testing approaches, techniques and tools; ability to design, plan and execute testing strategies and tactics to ensure product quality at all stages of manufacturing.
  • Troubleshooting Technical Problems: Working knowledge of troubleshooting approaches, tools and techniques; ability to anticipate, detect and resolve technical problems in a manufacturing or product development environment.

Top Candidates will have:
  • Degree/Certificate in diesel/automotive technology, math, or science
  • Minimum of one year in the Mechanician role with focus on test cell operation (Data acquisition, dyno operation, emissions equipment, Allen Bradley operation, cell instrumentation setup, calibration requirements, facilities systems)
  • Experience working on a team supporting projects related to engine product development
  • Understanding and execution of part procurement procedures
  • Proficiency in engine operating parameters to be able to conduct performance troubleshooting
  • Proficiency in engine data processing and analysis (PerfEx, DATK, CANape, Diadem)

Additional Information:
  • This role is located in is Mossville, IL
  • Up to 10% travel to remote locations globally.
  • Relocation assistance is available for this role.
  • Visa sponsorship is not available for this role.

Summary Pay Range:
$89,210.00 - $133,810.00
Compensation and benefits offered may vary depending on multiple individualized factors, job level, market location, job-related knowledge, skills, individual performance and experience. Please note that salary is only one component of total compensation at Caterpillar.
Benefits:
Subject to plan eligibility, terms, and guidelines. This is a summary list of benefits.
  • Medical, dental, and vision benefits*
  • Paid time off plan (Vacation, Holidays, Volunteer, etc.)*
  • 401(k) savings plans*
  • Health Savings Account (HSA)*
  • Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs)*
  • Health Lifestyle Programs*
  • Employee Assistance Program*
  • Voluntary Benefits and Employee Discounts*
  • Career Development*
  • Incentive bonus*
  • Disability benefits
  • Life Insurance
  • Parental leave
  • Adoption benefits
  • Tuition Reimbursement

* These benefits also apply to part-time employees
This position requires working onsite five days a week.
Relocation is available for this position.
Visa Sponsorship is not available for this position.
Posting Dates:
July 21, 2026 - August 4, 2026
Any offer of employment is conditioned upon the successful completion of a drug screen.
Caterpillar is an Equal Opportunity Employer, Including Veterans and Individuals with Disabilities. Qualified applicants of any age are encouraged to apply.
Not ready to apply? Join our Talent Community.

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