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Automotive Embedded Software Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL

We are seeking a Senior Embedded Software Engineer to design, develop, test, and support our next generation of connected device solutions. This role is the critical link across our hardware ...

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Automotive Embedded Software Engineer information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$72.2K

$158.1K

$179.4K

How much do automotive embedded software engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for automotive embedded software engineer in Chicago, IL is $158,132.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $135,600.00 and $178,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Automotive Embedded Software Engineer vs Automotive Software Developer?

AspectAutomotive Embedded Software EngineerAutomotive Software Developer
CredentialsBachelor's in Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or related; knowledge of embedded systemsBachelor's in Computer Science or Software Engineering; programming skills
Work EnvironmentEmbedded systems in vehicles, real-time OS, hardware integrationApplication-level software, vehicle interfaces, user experience
Industry UsageDesigning firmware for ECUs, control units, safety systemsDeveloping vehicle infotainment, navigation, or telematics software

Automotive Embedded Software Engineers focus on developing firmware and low-level software for vehicle control units, working closely with hardware. Automotive Software Developers typically work on higher-level applications like infotainment systems. Both roles require programming skills, but embedded engineers often have specialized knowledge of real-time systems and hardware integration.

What does an automotive embedded software engineer do?

An Automotive Embedded Software Engineer designs, develops, tests, and maintains software systems that are integrated into vehicles. These systems control a wide range of automotive functions, such as engine management, infotainment, advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS), and safety features. The engineer works closely with hardware teams to ensure the software interacts seamlessly with vehicle electronics, adhering to industry standards for safety and reliability. Their work helps improve vehicle performance, safety, and user experience.

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

To thrive as an Automotive Embedded Software Engineer, you need strong programming skills in C/C++, deep knowledge of embedded systems, and a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with automotive-specific tools and standards such as MATLAB/Simulink, CAN protocol, AUTOSAR, and ISO 26262 certification is typically required. Problem-solving ability, attention to detail, and effective teamwork are crucial soft skills for this role. These skills ensure the development of reliable, safe, and efficient automotive software systems that meet industry standards and customer expectations.

What are some common challenges faced by automotive embedded software engineers when working with cross-functional teams?

Automotive Embedded Software Engineers often collaborate closely with hardware engineers, systems architects, and quality assurance teams. One common challenge is ensuring seamless integration between software and hardware components, which requires clear communication and thorough documentation. Additionally, aligning on safety standards and meeting rigorous automotive compliance requirements can add complexity to project timelines. Effective teamwork and adaptability are essential for navigating these challenges and delivering reliable embedded solutions.
What are popular job titles related to Automotive Embedded Software Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL? For Automotive Embedded Software Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Automotive Embedded Software Engineer job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 72% Full Time, and 28% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $158,132 per year, or $76 per hour.

Engineer Embedded Software

Northrop Grumman Corporation

Rolling Meadows, IL • On-site

$132K - $174K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, PTO

Re-posted 25 days ago


Northrop Grumman rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 360 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

88th of 536 rated manufacturers


Job description

RELOCATION ASSISTANCE: No relocation assistance availableCLEARANCE REQUIRED FOR START: NoCLEARANCE TYPE: SecretTRAVEL: Yes, 10% of the TimeDescriptionAt Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work - and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible. Our employees are not only part of history, they're making history.

Northrop Grumman Mission Systems is a trusted provider of mission-enabling solutions for global security. We have awide portfolio of secure, affordable, integrated, and multi-domain systems and technologies. Our differentiated battlemanagement and cyber solutions deliver timely, mission-enabling information and provide superior situational awarenessand understanding to protect the U.S. and its global allies.

Northrop Grumman Mission Systems is looking for you to join us as anEngineer, Embedded Software - Manufacturing Test Engineering (IRCM)based on-siteinRolling Meadows, IL.

Manufacturing Engineers thrive in an environment of daily unique challenges and close proximity to products. Engineers who do well in this setting enjoy seeing their work perform in a test or a product, collaborate and communicate well across functions, and are innovative problem solvers. Best suited to this role are those who enjoy learning and bring a sense of urgency and energy to their tasks.

This position will support software efforts associated with testing Infrared Countermeasure (IRCM) production hardware in a dynamic, fast-paced and technically challenging production environment.

Behavioral Traits sought out:

  • The Manufacturing Software Engineers are expected to be problem solvers with the ability to provide results that are innovative and often achieved through collaboration across functional groups.
  • We seek individuals with proven excellence in the following 6 core competencies:
  • a) High levels of Self-accountability and Ownership
  • b) Acts with Speed
  • c) Responds to Challenges with Resilience
  • d) Leads with Courage
  • e) Sets vision for the assigned products
  • f) Builds a High Performing Team

This position will be full-time, on-site at our Rolling Meadows, IL. location.

What you will get to do:

  • Design,integrate, validate, and release software for Acceptance Testing of LRUs and System level sell-off supporting multiple Line Replaceable Units (LRUs) including Processors, Sensors, Transmitters and system-level testing.
  • Collaboratewith the Integrated Product Team (IPT) to coordinate cross-functional test software development from requirements capture through final validation and release, and driving collaboration among product design engineers, test hardware engineers, quality assurance engineers, and manufacturing technicians.
  • Developand maintain documentation for Manufacturing Acceptance Test and Environmental Screening procedures.
  • Reviewtestability of products and collaborate with design engineering to achieve testability in new and updated product design.

The ideal candidate will have:

  • Familiarity with communication protocols including RS-232, GPIB, TCP/IP
  • Familiarity with reading schematics and interpreting electrical one-lines.

Basic Qualifications for the Embedded Software Engineer (IRCM):

  • Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Electrical and/or Computer Engineering or related STEM field with a minimum of 2 years of relevant work experience; OR a Master's degree in equivalent fields with 0 or more years of relevant work experience.
  • Experience using C# / C / C++
  • Ability to obtain and maintain a minimum of a Secret Clearance
  • US Citizenship required.

Preferred Qualifications for the Embedded Software Engineer (IRCM):

  • 2 or more years of experience in electronic hardware Manufacturing environment and/or electronic hardware software or firmware design environment preferred.
  • Experience with use of lab test instruments such as (but not limited to) Oscilloscope, Signal Generator, Power Supplies, Power Meters.
  • Experience developing automated test software
  • Prior software troubleshooting experience of test equipment or prime hardware.
  • Experience developing in Visual Studios
  • Experience developing in LabView / TestStand
  • Experience using GitHub.
  • Active DoD Security Clearance.
What We Can Offer You:
Northrop Grumman provides a comprehensive benefits package and a work environment that encourages your growth and supports the mutual success of our people and our company. Northrop Grumman benefits give you the flexibility and control to choose the benefits that make the most sense for you and your family.
Your benefits will include the following: Health Plan, Savings Plan, Paid Time Off, and Additional Benefits, including Education Assistance, Training and Development, 9/80 Work Schedule (where available), and much more!
#MPR
Primary Level Salary Range: $87,600.00 - $131,400.00The above salary range represents a general guideline; however, Northrop Grumman considers a number of factors when determining base salary offers such as the scope and responsibilities of the position and the candidate's experience, education, skills and current market conditions.Depending on the position, employees may be eligible for overtime, shift differential, and a discretionary bonus in addition to base pay. Annual bonuses are designed to reward individual contributions as well as allow employees to share in company results. Employees in Vice President or Director positions may be eligible for Long Term Incentives. In addition, Northrop Grumman provides a variety of benefits including health insurance coverage, life and disability insurance, savings plan, Company paid holidays and paid time off (PTO) for vacation and/or personal business.The application period for the job is estimated to be 20 days from the job posting date. However, this timeline may be shortened or extended depending on business needs and the availability of qualified candidates.Northrop Grumman is an Equal Opportunity Employer, making decisions without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, or any other protected class. For our complete EEO and pay transparency statement, please visit http://www.northropgrumman.com/EEO. U.S. Citizenship is required for all positions with a government clearance and certain other restricted positions.

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About Northrop Grumman

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work - and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible.

Industry

Space research administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Falls Church, VA, US

Year founded

1939