Backend Software Engineer Jobs in Illinois
Backend Software Engineer jobs in Illinois are among the most active in the Midwest, with sustained demand from fintech firms, enterprise software companies, healthcare technology platforms, and major logistics and e-commerce operations at every level from entry-level to principal engineer. Chicago drives the bulk of hiring, with notable concentrations in the suburbs of Naperville and Schaumburg, where large technology and financial services employers maintain engineering hubs. Companies like Allstate, Morningstar, and Uptake have long-standing backend engineering teams in the state, and the most sought-after specialties include distributed systems, cloud-native API development, and data pipeline engineering. Find a role that fits below and apply directly.
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Showing 5 of 8+ Backend Software Engineer jobs
Job responsibilities
Executes software solutions, design, development, and technical troubleshooting with ability to think beyond routine or conventional approaches to build solutions or break down technical problems
Manage the delivery of a scrum
Produces architecture and design artifacts for complex applications while being accountable for ensuring design constraints are met by software code development
Leverages enterprise-authorized AI coding assist tools within the work environment to improve code quality, delivery speed, and productivity across complex deliverables (e.g., code generation/refactoring, unit test creation, documentation), while validating outputs through peer review, automated testing, and secure coding standards; contributes learnings and reusable patterns to improve broader team effectiveness.
Applies knowledge of tools within the Software Development Life Cycle toolchain, including approved AI-assisted development and automation capabilities, to improve the value realized by automation at scale.
Develops secure high-quality production code, and reviews and debugs code written by others
Proactively identifies hidden problems and patterns in data and uses these insights to drive improvements to coding hygiene and system architecture
Adds to team culture of diversity, opportunity, inclusion, and respect
Required qualifications, capabilities, and skills
Formal training or certification on software engineering concepts and 10+ years applied experience
Advanced knowledge in Java on Spring Boot programming language, microservices patterns, and REST API development.
Hands-on practical experience delivering system design, application development, testing, and operational stability
Hands-on experience using enterprise-authorized AI-assisted software development tools within the work environment (e.g., for coding, test creation, troubleshooting, or documentation) with demonstrated ability to critically evaluate, validate, and refine AI-generated outputs for correctness, performance, and security.
Proficiency in automation and continuous delivery methods
Proficient in all aspects of the Software Development Life Cycle, software engineering principles, design patterns, and best practices
Experience in developing, debugging, and maintaining code in a large corporate environment with one or more modern programming languages and database querying languages like Oracle, MySQL or NoSQL databases like Cassandra.
Advanced understanding of agile methodologies such as CI/CD, Application Resiliency, and Security
Demonstrated proficiency in software applications and technical processes within a technical discipline (e.g., cloud, artificial intelligence, machine learning, mobile, etc.)
Hands on experience working with high throughput, low latency distributed systems ensuring efficient communication and integration between different systems
Proven record of providing end-user support with excellent problem-solving abilities
Preferred qualifications, capabilities, and skills
10+ years of experience in Java Development
Advanced knowledge in reactive programming technology, building microservices
Knowledge of On-prem and/or public cloud
Knowledge in Cockroach or Cassandra / distributed database
We offer a competitive total rewards package including base salary determined based on the role, experience, skill set and location. Those in eligible roles may receive commission-based pay and/or discretionary incentive compensation, paid in the form of cash and/or forfeitable equity, awarded in recognition of individual achievements and contributions. We also offer a range of benefits and programs to meet employee needs, based on eligibility. These benefits include comprehensive health care coverage, on-site health and wellness centers, a retirement savings plan, backup childcare, tuition reimbursement, mental health support, financial coaching and more. Additional details about total compensation and benefits will be provided during the hiring process.
We recognize that our people are our strength and the diverse talents they bring to our global workforce are directly linked to our success. We are an equal opportunity employer and place a high value on diversity and inclusion at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of any protected attribute, including race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, marital or veteran status, pregnancy or disability, or any other basis protected under applicable law. We also make reasonable accommodations for applicants' and employees' religious practices and beliefs, as well as mental health or physical disability needs. Visit our FAQs for more information about requesting an accommodation.
JPMorgan Chase & Co. is an Equal Opportunity Employer, including Disability/Veterans
ABOUT THE TEAM
J.P. Morgan's Commercial & Investment Bank is a global leader across banking, markets, securities services and payments. Corporations, governments and institutions throughout the world entrust us with their business in more than 100 countries. The Commercial & Investment Bank provides strategic advice, raises capital, manages risk and extends liquidity in markets around the world.
Job responsibilities
Executes software solutions, design, development, and technical troubleshooting with ability to think beyond routine or conventional approaches to build solutions or break down technical problems
Manage the delivery of a scrum
Produces architecture and design artifacts for complex applications while being accountable for ensuring design constraints are met by software code development
Leverages enterprise-authorized AI coding assist tools within the work environment to improve code quality, delivery speed, and productivity across complex deliverables (e.g., code generation/refactoring, unit test creation, documentation), while validating outputs through peer review, automated testing, and secure coding standards; contributes learnings and reusable patterns to improve broader team effectiveness.
Applies knowledge of tools within the Software Development Life Cycle toolchain, including approved AI-assisted development and automation capabilities, to improve the value realized by automation at scale.
Develops secure high-quality production code, and reviews and debugs code written by others
Proactively identifies hidden problems and patterns in data and uses these insights to drive improvements to coding hygiene and system architecture
Adds to team culture of diversity, opportunity, inclusion, and respect
Required qualifications, capabilities, and skills
Formal training or certification on software engineering concepts and 10+ years applied experience
Advanced knowledge in Java on Spring Boot programming language, microservices patterns, and REST API development.
Hands-on practical experience delivering system design, application development, testing, and operational stability
Hands-on experience using enterprise-authorized AI-assisted software development tools within the work environment (e.g., for coding, test creation, troubleshooting, or documentation) with demonstrated ability to critically evaluate, validate, and refine AI-generated outputs for correctness, performance, and security.
Proficiency in automation and continuous delivery methods
Proficient in all aspects of the Software Development Life Cycle, software engineering principles, design patterns, and best practices
Experience in developing, debugging, and maintaining code in a large corporate environment with one or more modern programming languages and database querying languages like Oracle, MySQL or NoSQL databases like Cassandra.
Advanced understanding of agile methodologies such as CI/CD, Application Resiliency, and Security
Demonstrated proficiency in software applications and technical processes within a technical discipline (e.g., cloud, artificial intelligence, machine learning, mobile, etc.)
Hands on experience working with high throughput, low latency distributed systems ensuring efficient communication and integration between different systems
Proven record of providing end-user support with excellent problem-solving abilities
Preferred qualifications, capabilities, and skills
10+ years of experience in Java Development
Advanced knowledge in reactive programming technology, building microservices
Knowledge of On-prem and/or public cloud
Knowledge in Cockroach or Cassandra / distributed database
We offer a competitive total rewards package including base salary determined based on the role, experience, skill set and location. Those in eligible roles may receive commission-based pay and/or discretionary incentive compensation, paid in the form of cash and/or forfeitable equity, awarded in recognition of individual achievements and contributions. We also offer a range of benefits and programs to meet employee needs, based on eligibility. These benefits include comprehensive health care coverage, on-site health and wellness centers, a retirement savings plan, backup childcare, tuition reimbursement, mental health support, financial coaching and more. Additional details about total compensation and benefits will be provided during the hiring process.
We recognize that our people are our strength and the diverse talents they bring to our global workforce are directly linked to our success. We are an equal opportunity employer and place a high value on diversity and inclusion at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of any protected attribute, including race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, marital or veteran status, pregnancy or disability, or any other basis protected under applicable law. We also make reasonable accommodations for applicants' and employees' religious practices and beliefs, as well as mental health or physical disability needs. Visit our FAQs for more information about requesting an accommodation.
JPMorgan Chase & Co. is an Equal Opportunity Employer, including Disability/Veterans
ABOUT THE TEAM
J.P. Morgan's Commercial & Investment Bank is a global leader across banking, markets, securities services and payments. Corporations, governments and institutions throughout the world entrust us with their business in more than 100 countries. The Commercial & Investment Bank provides strategic advice, raises capital, manages risk and extends liquidity in markets around the world.
See All 8 Backend Software Engineer Jobs in Illinois
Find roles in Illinois that match your experience and apply in just a few clicks.
Find JobsBackend Software Engineer Jobs by City in Illinois
Where Illinois roles are concentrated, by current openings.
Backend Software Engineer Job Market in Illinois
A snapshot from current Illinois openings, updated as new roles post.
Who's Hiring
Top Industries Hiring
- Technology & Software
What Illinois Employers Look For
The qualifications that appear most often in backend software engineer jobs across Illinois.
- Bachelor's degree in computer science, software engineering, or a closely related field
- Proficiency in one or more backend languages such as Java, Python, Go, or Node.js
- Experience designing and maintaining RESTful APIs and microservices architectures
- Demonstrated knowledge of relational and NoSQL databases including PostgreSQL and MongoDB
- Familiarity with cloud platforms such as AWS, Azure, or Google Cloud and CI/CD pipelines
- Strong understanding of system design, scalability principles, and code review practices
Backend Software Engineer Jobs in Illinois: Frequently Asked Questions
How do you become a backend software engineer in Illinois?
Backend software engineering has no state-issued license in Illinois, so the path centers on education and demonstrated skill. Most Illinois employers expect a bachelor's degree in computer science, software engineering, or information systems, though strong candidates from bootcamps or associate programs are considered when paired with a solid portfolio. Building projects in languages like Java, Python, or Go and deploying them using cloud tools strengthens any application significantly.
How much do backend software engineers make in Illinois?
Backend software engineers in Illinois earn a median of about $132,110 a year, based on May 2025 Bureau of Labor Statistics wage data, ranging from around $80,980 for the lowest 10% to over $194,740 for the top 10%. Pay rises with experience, specialty, and employer.
Which companies hire backend software engineers in Illinois?
Employers hiring backend software engineers in Illinois right now include SMARTZ, Photon, and Comcast, based on current listings on Migrate Mate as of November 2026. Illinois's strong fintech, healthcare technology, and enterprise software sectors mean backend engineering roles appear consistently across both large legacy institutions and growth-stage companies headquartered in and around Chicago.
Which Illinois cities have the most backend software engineer jobs?
The cities with the most backend software engineer openings in Illinois are Chicago and Champaign. Chicago dominates because of its dense concentration of financial services firms, health-tech companies, and technology consultancies, while suburban markets like Naperville and Schaumburg draw openings from the large corporate campuses and enterprise technology employers based along the I-88 corridor west of the city.
Are there remote backend software engineer jobs in Illinois?
Yes, and more than most fields. About 33% of backend software engineer openings tied to Illinois are remote or hybrid as of November 2026, reflecting how well the role's day-to-day work translates to distributed teams. The portions most likely to be fully remote are pure backend and API roles at product companies, while on-site expectations tend to be higher at financial services firms with strict data-security requirements.
How can I get hired as a backend software engineer in Illinois with little or no experience?
The most realistic entry path is landing an associate or junior software engineer role and building from there. Large Illinois-based employers like Allstate and Morningstar run structured new-graduate and early-career programs that accept candidates with limited professional experience. Adjacent roles in QA engineering, DevOps support, or technical support at a software company are common stepping stones. A portfolio of deployed backend projects, a GitHub profile with active contributions, and familiarity with cloud fundamentals give candidates without a traditional background a concrete edge in Illinois screening processes.
Where can I find and apply to backend software engineer jobs in Illinois?
You can find and apply to backend software engineer jobs in Illinois on Migrate Mate, which lists current openings tied to the state. Search the available roles, find the ones that fit your background and target location, and apply directly to each one that matches.
See All 8 Backend Software Engineer Jobs in Illinois
Find roles in Illinois that match your experience and apply in just a few clicks.
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