1

C Programming Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Senior Software Engineer (Onsite)

Rockford, IL · Hybrid

$122K - $161K/yr

Strong knowledge of embedded software architecture and C programming. * Hands-on experience with embedded lab testing using oscilloscopes, in-circuit emulators, and target debuggers. Qualifications ...

New

Controls Engineer

Melrose Park, IL · On-site

$65K - $85K/yr

C programming language knowledge preferred * Ability to read mechanical drawings and electrical wiring diagrams * Knowledge of Frequency Inverters parameterization and operation (preferable SEW and ...

Controls Engineer

Melrose Park, IL · On-site

$81K - $105K/yr

C programming language knowledge preferred * Ability to read mechanical drawings and electrical wiring diagrams * Knowledge of Frequency Inverters parameterization and operation (preferable SEW and ...

... C programming language Additional Information Telecommuting permitted within normal commuting distance of the worksite 1 day/week. Employees Supervised: None Travel: up to 10% domestic travel and up ...

C++ Developer

Peoria, IL · On-site

$48 - $64.75/hr

Strong programming skills in C and C++. * In-depth knowledge of Linux kernel networking subsystems. * Experience with TCP/IP, UDP, IPsec, and other networking protocols. * Familiarity with socket ...

Showing results 21-40

C Programming information

See Illinois salary details

$10.7K

$113.8K

$173K

How much do c programming jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 11, 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 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.

Are C programming in demand?

C programming remains in demand for systems programming, embedded systems, and performance-critical applications. Many industries, including technology, automotive, and aerospace, seek developers skilled in C, especially those familiar with low-level programming and debugging tools. Proficiency in C can lead to opportunities in hardware development and firmware engineering.

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 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 knowledge of embedded systems or low-level programming can earn higher salaries.

Are C programmers still in demand?

C programmers are still in demand, especially in systems programming, embedded systems, and performance-critical applications. Knowledge of C remains valuable for working with operating systems, device drivers, and hardware interfaces, and many industries continue to rely on C for low-level programming tasks.

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 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 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.

What are the most commonly searched types of C Programming jobs in Illinois? The most popular types of C Programming jobs in Illinois are:
Infographic showing various C Programming job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 79% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $113,799 per year, or $54.7 per hour.

Senior Software Engineer (Onsite)

Collins Aerospace

Rockford, IL • Hybrid

$122K - $161K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 3 days ago

New


Collins Aerospace rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 251 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

32nd of 72 rated aerospace companies


Job description

Date Posted:

2026-08-07

Country:

United States of America

Location:

US-IL-ROCKFORD-P6 ~ 4747 Harrison Ave ~ 4747 HARRISON AVE-P6

Position Role Type:

Hybrid

U.S. Citizen, U.S. Person, or Immigration Status Requirements:

U.S. citizenship is required, as only U.S. citizens are authorized to access information under this program/contract.

Security Clearance Type:

None/Not Required

Security Clearance Status:

Not Required

Join our team in Rockford, IL as a Senior Software Engineer and help develop the embedded software behind advanced aerospace electric power systems. You'll collaborate with talented engineers to build, verify, and certify real-time embedded software in C, working across the full software development lifecycle and contributing to mission-critical technology that keeps aircraft operating safely and reliably.

What You Will Do

  • Develop embedded software for aerospace electric power systems.

  • Participate in the full software development lifecycle, from planning through certification.

  • Design, implement, verify, and validate real-time embedded software in C.

  • Collaborate with cross-functional and remote engineering teams to deliver high-quality software.

  • Support software certification activities in compliance with aerospace standards.

  • Design, develop, and maintain embedded C software for electric power system controls.

  • Perform software planning, architecture, implementation, testing, and verification.

  • Develop software in accordance with DO-178C (Levels A–C) and other applicable aerospace standards.

  • Create and maintain software documentation, requirements, and verification artifacts.

  • Troubleshoot, debug, and integrate software with embedded hardware.

  • Participate in design reviews, code reviews, and technical discussions.

  • Collaborate with systems, hardware, verification, and certification engineers to ensure successful project delivery.

Qualifications You Must Have  

  • Typically requires a degree in Science, Technology, Engineering or Mathematics (STEM) and minimum 5 years prior relevant experience or an Advanced Degree in a related field and minimum 3 years of experience  

  • Experience with the full embedded software development lifecycle, including requirements decomposition, design, implementation, verification, and certification.

  • Strong knowledge of embedded software architecture and C programming.

  • Hands-on experience with embedded lab testing using oscilloscopes, in-circuit emulators, and target debuggers.

Qualifications We Prefer

  • Experience developing and verifying embedded software in compliance with DO-178 or similar industry standards.

  • Proficient in Assembly, Python, and Tcl/Tk programming languages.

  • Familiar with Model-Based Development (MBD) using MATLAB/Simulink.

  • Experience with real-time embedded operating systems (RTOS) and low-level platform integration, including BSPs, device drivers, and I/O.

  • Knowledge of Built-In Test (BIT) development, module self-test, and system protection.

  • Experience with configuration and requirements management tools, including IBM Rational Synergy, Change, DOORS, and DXL.

  • Strong understanding of ARINC 429, ARINC 629, ARINC 664, CAN, and Ethernet communication protocols.

  • Experience with Texas Instruments TMS320F2812 DSPs and Freescale PowerPC microcontrollers.

  • Knowledge of generator control systems, embedded control applications, and hardware/software integration.

  • Experience leading technical teams and mentoring engineers.

  • Understanding of software quality assurance and the software development lifecycle (SDLC).

  • Excellent interpersonal, collaboration, and written/verbal communication skills.

What We Offer 

Some of our competitive benefits package includes:    

  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance   

  • Three weeks of vacation for newly hired employees   

  • Generous 401(k) plan that includes employer matching funds and separate employer retirement contribution, including a Lifetime Income Strategy option   

  • Tuition reimbursement program  

  • Student Loan Repayment Program   

  • Life insurance and disability coverage   

  • Optional coverages you can buy: pet insurance, home and auto insurance, additional life and accident insurance, critical illness insurance, group legal, ID theft protection  

  • Birth, adoption, parental leave benefits  

  • Ovia Health, fertility, and family planning   

  • Adoption Assistance            

  • Autism Benefit   

  • Employee Assistance Plan, including up to 10 free counseling sessions   

  • Healthy You Incentives, wellness rewards program  

  • Doctor on Demand, virtual doctor visits   

  • Bright Horizons, child and elder care services  

  • Teladoc Medical Experts, second opinion program   

  • And more!   

Learn More & Apply Now! 

We make modern flight possible for millions of travelers and our military every second.  Our major product lines are on-board virtually every aircraft flying. Be it keeping passengers safe with our emergency power generation systems or creating a positive in-flight experience through reliable cabin pressure controls and quieter engines, Power & Controls focuses on delivering a best-in-class experience to our customers. We hire the top people in the industry. Their ideas drive our performance, and their integrity keeps our customers happy. Join us as we take flight!  

*Please ensure the role type (defined below) is appropriate for your needs before applying to this role.  

Onsite: Employees who are working in Onsite roles will work primarily onsite. This includes all production and maintenance employees, as they are essential to the development of our products. 

At Collins, the paths we pave together lead to limitless possibility. And the bonds we form – with our customers and with each other -- propel us all higher, again and again. 

Apply now and be part of the team that’s redefining aerospace, every day. 

As part of our commitment to maintaining a secure hiring process, candidates may be asked to attend select steps of the interview process in-person at one of our office locations, regardless of whether the role is designated as on-site, hybrid or remote.

The salary range for this role is 86,800 USD - 165,200 USD. The salary range provided is a good faith estimate representative of all experience levels. RTX considers several factors when extending an offer, including but not limited to, the role, function and associated responsibilities, a candidate’s work experience, location, education/training, and key skills. Hired applicants may be eligible for benefits, including but not limited to, medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short-term disability, long-term disability, 401(k) match, flexible spending accounts, flexible work schedules, employee assistance program, Employee Scholar Program, parental leave, paid time off, and holidays. Specific benefits are dependent upon the specific business unit as well as whether or not the position is covered by a collective-bargaining agreement. Hired applicants may be eligible for annual short-term and/or long-term incentive compensation programs depending on the level of the position and whether or not it is covered by a collective-bargaining agreement. Payments under these annual programs are not guaranteed and are dependent upon a variety of factors including, but not limited to, individual performance, business unit performance, and/or the company’s performance. This role is a U.S.-based role. If the successful candidate resides in a U.S. territory, the appropriate pay structure and benefits will apply. RTX anticipates the application window closing approximately 40 days from the date the notice was posted. However, factors such as candidate flow and business necessity may require RTX to shorten or extend the application window.

RTX is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability or veteran status, or any other applicable state or federal protected class. RTX provides affirmative action in employment for qualified Individuals with a Disability and Protected Veterans in compliance with Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act and the Vietnam Era Veterans’ Readjustment Assistance Act.

Privacy Policy and Terms:

Click on this link to read the Policy and Terms


What Collins Aerospace employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


Collins Aerospace logo

About Collins Aerospace

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Collins Aerospace, a Raytheon Technologies company, is a leader in technologically advanced and intelligent solutions for the global aerospace and defense industry. Collins Aerospace has the capabilities, comprehensive portfolio and expertise to solve customers' toughest challenges and to meet the demands of a rapidly evolving global market.

Industry

Aviation

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Charlotte, NC, US

Year founded

2018