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Aerospace Software Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

... communications, aerospace, business, scientific and general computing applications. Job ... Azure Engineer,Software Developer Background Check : No Drug Screen : No

Software Engineer III/IV

Burbank, IL · On-site

$58.25 - $78.50/hr

Crane Aerospace and Electronics has an exciting opportunity for a Senior Software Engineer (Level III or IV) at our Burbank, CA location. About Crane: Crane Aerospace & Electronics supplies critical ...

... aerospace, business, scientific and general computing applications. Job Responsibilities: * Design and implement software of embedded devices and systems from requirements to production and ...

Started his career at Deloitte Consulting, focusing on supply chain & manufacturing operations for the aerospace & defense sector. Brent Shulman * Full-stack engineering leader * Previously an ...

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Showing results 1-20

Aerospace Software Engineer information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$65.5K

$152.1K

$211.9K

How much do aerospace software engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for aerospace software engineer in Chicago, IL is $152,091.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $123,700.00 and $178,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an aerospace software engineer?

To excel as an Aerospace Software Engineer, you need a strong background in computer science or engineering, proficiency in programming languages like C/C++, and experience with real-time embedded systems. Familiarity with aerospace standards such as DO-178C, knowledge of avionics platforms, and certifications like FAA DER or equivalent are often required. Strong problem-solving, teamwork, and communication skills help you effectively collaborate on multidisciplinary projects and adapt to fast-paced environments. These skills ensure the development of safe, reliable, and high-quality software systems that meet rigorous aerospace industry standards.

What does an aerospace software engineer do?

An Aerospace Software Engineer designs, develops, tests, and maintains software used in aerospace systems, including avionics, flight control, navigation, and simulation. They work with programming languages like C, C++, and Python to ensure software meets safety and performance standards. These engineers collaborate with hardware engineers, systems engineers, and regulatory bodies to comply with industry standards such as DO-178C. Their work is critical for ensuring the reliability and safety of aircraft, spacecraft, and defense systems.

What are some typical projects or responsibilities for an aerospace software engineer?

Aerospace Software Engineers often work on developing, testing, and maintaining software for flight control systems, simulation platforms, and avionics hardware. They may be responsible for writing and verifying safety-critical code, integrating new features with existing aircraft systems, and resolving software anomalies discovered during testing or in operation. Day-to-day work can involve close collaboration with systems engineers, hardware engineers, and quality assurance teams to ensure compliance with industry and regulatory requirements. This variety of responsibilities offers continuous learning opportunities and a clear path toward leadership or specialization in the field.

What are the most commonly searched types of Aerospace Software Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Aerospace Software Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What are popular job titles related to Aerospace Software Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL? For Aerospace Software Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Aerospace Software Engineer job openings in Chicago, IL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 11% Internship, 76% Full Time, and 13% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $152,091 per year, or $73.1 per hour.

Aerospace Software Embedded Engineering Director

Woodward, Inc.

Niles, IL • On-site

$230K - $276K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted yesterday


Woodward Inc. rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 69 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

113th of 487 rated machine equipment manufacturers


Job description

Woodward is committed to creating a great workplace for all team members. Our company and its members are committed to acting with integrity, being respectful and accountable to one another, and staying humble and driven, while maintaining the highest professional and ethical standards.
We are steadfastly committed to attracting the best talent across our communities, creating a rewarding workplace. Together we are fulfilling our purpose to design and deliver energy control solutions our partners count on to power a clean future.
Woodward supports our members' wellbeing and regularly benchmarks with other companies in our industry to offer an extensive Total Reward package for this position. Salary will be determined by the applicant's education, experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities, as well as internal equity and alignment with market data.
Estimated annual base pay: $184,000 (minimum) - $230,000 (midpoint) - $276,000 (maximum)
  • All members included in annual cash bonus opportunity
  • 401(k) match (4.5%)
  • Annual Woodward stock contribution (5%) & Annual Time Based Equity (Stock)
  • Tuition reimbursement and Training/Professional Development opportunities for all members
  • 12 paid holidays
  • Industry leading medical, dental, and vision Insurance upon date of hire
  • Vacation / Sick Time / Vacation Buy-up / Short Term Disability / Bereavement leave
  • Paid parental leave
  • Adoption Assistance
  • Employee Assistance Program, including mental health benefits
  • Member Life & AD&D / Long Term Disability / Member Optional Life
  • Member referral bonus
  • Spouse / Child Optional Life / Optional AD&D / Healthcare and Dependent Care Flexible Spending
  • Voluntary benefits, including:
    • Home / Auto Insurance discounts
    • Whole Life Insurance / Critical Illness Insurance / Legal Assistance / Military Leave

Ready to Lead and Innovate?
If you're a visionary Director of Engineering with a passion for software and a drive to shape the future of aerospace technology, this is your opportunity to make an impact at a global scale.
As Director of Engineering, you'll lead a high-performing organization that designs, develops, and sustains cutting-edge products and systems for commercial aerospace. Reporting directly to the VP of Engineering, you'll set the strategic direction, influence technical excellence, and guide a global team of 80+ talented software engineers. Your leadership will ensure compliance with the most rigorous standards-DO-178 DAL A and MIL-STD-882-while fostering innovation and breakthrough solutions.
Why This Role Matters
  • Shape the Future: Drive systemic improvements and establish a strong design culture that delivers world-class, compliant products.
  • Lead at Scale: Mentor and inspire a global team, championing career growth and aligning engineering excellence with organizational goals.
  • Strategic Influence: Own product roadmaps, budgets, and infrastructure planning while representing the company at industry events and shaping competitive strategies.
  • Innovate Relentlessly: Apply Design for Six Sigma, lean principles, Novel Agile Methodologies, and cutting-edge methods to eliminate waste and accelerate innovation.

What You'll Bring
  • Proven leadership in software engineering and organizational management.
  • Expertise in aerospace development standards and quality systems.
  • Strong technical depth combined with financial acumen and market insight.
  • Exceptional communication and stakeholder influence skills.
  • Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering

This isn't just a job-it's a chance to leave your mark on the next generation of aerospace technology while leading a team that thrives on collaboration, innovation, and excellence.
This position requires use of information which is subject to the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) and/or the Export Administration Regulations (EAR). All applicants must be U.S. Persons within the meaning of the ITAR and EAR, or eligible to obtain all required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State and/or the U.S. Department of Commerce. The ITAR defines a U.S. Person as a U.S. citizen or national, lawful permanent resident (i.e., 'Green Card holder'), or a protected person (e.g., asylee, or refugee).
Woodward is an Equal Opportunity Employer
EO/AA/M/F/Disabled/Protected Veterans
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