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C Programming Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

IDEX Corporation

Embedded Software Engineer

Wheeling, IL · On-site

$127K - $190K/yr

Design, develop, and maintain embedded drivers and firmware with a strong focus on C programming for embedded systems. * Develop and support real-time embedded applications using RTOS, ensuring ...

IDEX

Embedded Software Engineer

Wheeling, IL

$127K - $190K/yr

Design, develop, and maintain embedded drivers and firmware with a strong focus on C programming for embedded systems. * Develop and support real-time embedded applications using RTOS, ensuring ...

Donohue and Associates

I&C Engineer/Designer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$75K - $150K/yr

We are seeking an I&C Engineer/Designer to join our team. The ideal candidate will be responsible for designing, developing, and implementing control systems for water/wastewater treatment facilities.

Donohue and Associates

I&C Engineer/Designer

Champaign, IL · On-site

$75K - $150K/yr

We are seeking an I&C Engineer/Designer to join our team. The ideal candidate will be responsible for designing, developing, and implementing control systems for water/wastewater treatment facilities.

Talent2Win

Software Verification Engineer

Peru, IL · On-site

$90 - $130/hr

Strong proficiency in C programming. * Experience with software verification, code reviews, and unit testing. * Hands‑on experience writing and executing test procedures and test scripts.

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C Programming information

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$10.7K

$113.8K

$173K

How much do c programming jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for c programming in Illinois is $113,799.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $92,100.00 and $151,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is C programming?

C programming refers to the use of the C language, a powerful and widely-used programming language developed in the early 1970s. It is known for its efficiency, portability, and close-to-hardware capabilities, making it ideal for system software, embedded systems, and application development. C provides a foundation for many modern languages and is often taught as a first programming language due to its straightforward syntax and deep understanding of computer architecture. Learning C can help programmers write high-performance code and understand fundamental programming concepts.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a C programmer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a C Programmer, you need a strong understanding of C language syntax, algorithms, data structures, and typically a degree in computer science or related field. Familiarity with development tools like GCC, debugging tools (such as GDB), version control systems (like Git), and sometimes knowledge of embedded systems or operating system internals is essential. Attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and the ability to communicate technical concepts clearly make someone stand out in this role. These skills ensure efficient, reliable, and maintainable software development, which is critical for performance-sensitive and foundational system applications.

What are some common challenges faced by C programmers when working on large-scale projects?

C programmers working on large-scale projects often encounter challenges such as managing memory efficiently, debugging complex pointer-related bugs, and ensuring code modularity for easier maintenance. Collaboration with other developers requires clear documentation and adherence to coding standards to prevent integration issues. Additionally, since C lacks many of the built-in safeguards of modern languages, programmers must be diligent about testing and code review to avoid security vulnerabilities and undefined behaviors.

What is the difference between C Programming vs Software Developer?

AspectC ProgrammingSoftware Developer
Required CredentialsTypically a degree in Computer Science or related field; knowledge of C languageDegree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or related; proficiency in multiple programming languages including C
Work EnvironmentOften embedded systems, operating systems, or hardware-related projectsWeb, mobile, desktop applications, and enterprise software development
Industry UsageEmbedded systems, firmware, OS developmentSoftware applications across various industries

While C Programming focuses on writing code in the C language for system-level and embedded projects, Software Developers have a broader role that includes designing, coding, and maintaining software applications using multiple languages. C programmers often work in specialized environments, whereas Software Developers work across diverse platforms and industries.

Are C programming language programmers still in demand?

C programming language programmers are still in demand, especially in systems programming, embedded systems, and performance-critical applications. Knowledge of C remains valuable for working with hardware, operating systems, and developing firmware, making it a relevant skill in various industries.

What can I do with C programming?

C programming skills enable you to develop system software, embedded systems, and performance-critical applications. It is widely used in operating systems, device drivers, and firmware development, often requiring knowledge of low-level programming and debugging tools.

What is the salary of a C programmer?

The salary of a C programmer varies based on experience, location, and industry, but typically ranges from $60,000 to $110,000 annually in many regions. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced developers with expertise in embedded systems or low-level programming can earn higher salaries.

What are the most commonly searched types of C Programming jobs in Illinois?

The most popular types of C Programming jobs in Illinois are:

What are popular job titles related to C Programming jobs in Illinois?

For C Programming jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching C Programming jobs in Illinois look for?

The top searched job categories for C Programming jobs in Illinois are:

C Programming jobs near you
Infographic showing various C Programming job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 85% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 88% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $113,799 per year, or $54.7 per hour.

System Level Software Engineer - Driver Development - 2784 -OJO

Right Talent Right Now

Chicago, IL • On-site

$178K - $211K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 5 days ago

Job description

Job Description

System Level Software Engineer - Driver Development - 2784


Job Ref.: 2784

Job Title: System Level Software Engineer - Driver Development

Role: Information Technology

Relocation Available: Yes

Industry: I.T.

Location: South Carolina

Town / City: Greer

Job Type: Permanent full-time



Job description:

Company develops custom system level software, including device drivers, firmware, embedded applications, protocol stacks, board support packages, and custom interfaces. They specialize in wireless communications for military and embedded systems.


They are seeking a talented Software Development professional who specializes in system-level development (device drivers, firmware, embedded systems) to serve as a key member of the engineering team. This individual will be responsible for developing and supporting user mode applications, device drivers, and firmware for a wide variety of systems, including networking and communication hardware and software products. These responsibilities include the design and development of protocols and algorithms for a variety of technologies, including USB, PCI, 802. WLAN, Ethernet, VoIP, Bluetooth, cellular, and broadband communications. This individual must be able to communicate effectively with clients and be attentive to customer satisfaction.

Windows Kernel and/or Driver Programming experience (XP, Vista, Windows 7, or Windows 8) or current Linux Kernel Driver programming experience.

6-8+ years C, C+ programming experience.

6-8+ years of application development experience

Excellent written and verbal communications skills

Strong debugging skills

Superior problem solving abilities 

Ability to work independently or as part of a team

Required Education: Bachelors or Masters in Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or Computer Science. 



Desired Skills (not required)

WinDBG

embedded Linux

Experience with multiple Linux distributions (Montavista, Ubuntu, OpenEmbedded, Red Hat, Buildroot, etc.) 

Embedded Linux development for a variety of platforms (ARM, MIPS, x86, PowerPC, etc.) and board support packages.

Experience writing software that interfaces with hardware (one or more of the following: device drivers, firmware, embedded systems).

Experience with real time and multithreaded applications

Experience performing architectural definition, documentation, and development at the system level

Reverse Engineering (IDA Pro, Ollydbg, etc.) 

Communication protocol experience (designing, implementing)

Experience writing software that interfaces with hardware (one or more of the following: device drivers, firmware, embedded systems)

Clearance Required: Candidate must be a U.S. Citizen in order to meet the minimum requirement to obtain the required clearance.



Bottom Line Requirements:

1. Bachelors or Masters in Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science or related.

2. Windows Kernel or Driver Programming experience (XP, Vista, Windows 7, or Windows 8) or current Linux Kernel Driver programming experience.

3. 6-8+ years C, C+ programming experience.

4. 6-8+ years of application development experience.

5. US Citizen able to obtain clearance.

Additional Information

All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.

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