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C Programming Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Autonomy Engineer (UAV)

Chicago, IL · On-site

$130K - $180K/yr

Strong C++ or C programming skills * Experience with PX4 or ArduPilot - or demonstrated ability to ramp quickly on a complex embedded autopilot codebase * Experience flying and testing UAV or robotic ...

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 ...

Senior P&C Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$107K - $147K/yr

Mesa's Midwest Region locations seeks a Senior Protection Substation Engineer to lead our teams in producing deliverables associated with substation P&C design projects. This will include single line ...

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 ...

Senior P&C Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$107K - $147K/yr

Mesa's Midwest Region locations seeks a Senior Protection Substation Engineer to lead our teams in producing deliverables associated with substation P&C design projects. This will include single line ...

Senior P&C Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$107K - $147K/yr

Mesa's Midwest Region locations seeks a Senior Protection Substation Engineer to lead our teams in producing deliverables associated with substation P&C design projects. This will include single line ...

C/C++ Software development

Peoria, IL · On-site

$48 - $64.75/hr

Programming · Strong proficiency in C and C++ software development. · Experience with object-oriented design principles and software architecture patterns. · Ability to interpret system ...

New

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 ...

Showing results 41-60

C Programming information

See Illinois salary details

$10.7K

$113.8K

$173K

How much do c programming jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 2, 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:

Infographic showing various C Programming job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 77% Full Time, 18% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 87% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $113,799 per year, or $54.7 per hour.

Autonomy Engineer (UAV)

Ascend Engineering

Chicago, IL • On-site

$130K - $180K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 10 days ago


Job description

We are seeking a Robotics & Autonomy Engineer to develop, integrate, and maintain autonomy capabilities on UAV platforms built around the PX4 and ArduPilot stacks. This is a full-time role on our engineering team, working across a range of client projects - so the day-to-day emphasizes hands-on integration, debugging, and real-world flight validation more than ground-up design ownership. You'll work across the full UAV stack, from embedded flight software and state estimation through mission logic and system integration, with a strong focus on reliability and practical field performance.
This position suits someone who enjoys both software development and hands-on hardware work, and who's comfortable owning problems across shifting project contexts. The ideal candidate brings solid robotics and autonomy fundamentals - estimation, controls, and coordinate frames - and is eager to grow deep expertise in the PX4 autopilot stack, including VIO, map matching, and GPS-denied navigation.
MUST HAVE PERMANENT RESIDENCE IN US
Responsibilities
  • Develop and modify PX4 or ArduPilot firmware to support new autonomy features and system capabilities
  • Implement mission logic, flight behaviors, and MAVLink integrations
  • Integrate sensors, cameras, radios, and payloads into UAV platforms
  • Tune and analyze estimation and control performance (EKF/Kalman filtering, PID loops) across platforms
  • Conduct flight testing and validate autonomous behaviors in real-world conditions
  • Analyze flight logs and telemetry to diagnose and resolve issues
  • Debug problems across the UAV stack including firmware, networking, hardware, and companion computers
  • Collaborate with engineers to design robust UAV architectures and workflows
  • Document system behavior, debugging results, and design decisions
Required Qualifications
  • Strong robotics/autonomy fundamentals: coordinate frame transformations, state estimation (Kalman filtering / sensor fusion), and PID control analysis
  • Strong C++ or C programming skills
  • Experience with PX4 or ArduPilot - or demonstrated ability to ramp quickly on a complex embedded autopilot codebase
  • Experience flying and testing UAV or robotic platforms
  • Familiarity with MAVLink, flight logs, and autopilot configuration
  • Experience debugging complex software and hardware interactions
  • Ability to work independently and take ownership of engineering tasks across multiple projects
  • Strong problem-solving skills and practical engineering judgment
Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience with ROS/ROS 2 and Nav2
  • Experience with visual-inertial odometry (VIO), map matching, or GPS-denied navigation
  • Experience building or configuring drones from components
  • Familiarity with companion computers (Linux), MAVSDK, or ROS
  • Experience integrating sensors such as LiDAR, cameras, or GPS systems
  • Experience with embedded systems or hardware debugging
  • Experience analyzing flight logs and tuning flight controllers
  • Personal robotics, UAV, or embedded systems projects
What We Value
  • Engineers who build and experiment outside of work
  • Strong ownership and accountability for outcomes
  • Practical, hands-on problem solving
  • Clear communication and collaboration within small teams
  • Curiosity and continuous learning