Contract Embedded Software Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Job Title: Embedded Software Engineer

Job Description

This Embedded Software Engineer role supports mission‑critical RF programs in a lab‑based engineering environment in Rolling Meadows, IL. You will design, develop, and integrate C++ embedded software running on real‑time operating systems such as Linux and other RTOS platforms. Working within Agile workflows, you will participate in the full software development lifecycle—from requirements and architecture through coding, testing, and hardware integration—to deliver high‑reliability systems for defense applications. The position requires strong hands‑on experience in C++ development, embedded RTOS environments, and on‑target lab testing and debugging. U.S. citizenship and the ability to obtain or hold a Secret clearance are required.

Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and maintain embedded C++ software for mission‑critical RF systems running on Linux and other real‑time operating systems.
• Participate in the full software lifecycle, including requirements analysis, design, coding, unit testing, integration, and verification of embedded software components.
• Integrate software with hardware in a lab environment, performing hands‑on testing, debugging, and validation on embedded targets.
• Apply object‑oriented design principles to create robust, maintainable, and scalable software solutions for multi‑threaded and distributed embedded systems.
• Use Agile development practices and tools such as Jira and Git to plan work, track progress, manage source code, and collaborate with cross‑functional engineering teams.
• Write and maintain scripting tools (e.g., Python, Bash) to support build, test, automation, and diagnostic activities for embedded software.
• Perform detailed debugging and root‑cause analysis of software and system issues on real hardware, and implement effective fixes and optimizations.
• Collaborate closely with systems, hardware, and FPGA engineers to ensure proper integration of software with SPs or ARM cores embedded in FPGAs and SoCs.
• Contribute to continuous improvement of development processes, coding standards, and test strategies within the Agile team.
• Document designs, interfaces, test procedures, and results to support traceability, compliance, and long‑term maintainability of the software.

Essential Skills

• Bachelor’s degree with at least 8 years of relevant experience, or Master’s degree with at least 6 years of relevant experience, or equivalent practical experience in embedded software engineering.
• Strong proficiency in C++ and object‑oriented programming, with the ability to apply OOD principles effectively from day one.
• Proven experience developing embedded software on Linux or other real‑time operating systems (RTOS).
• Hands‑on experience in a lab environment performing software testing, debugging, and integration directly on hardware targets.
• Familiarity with Agile development methodologies and tools such as Jira and Git or similar systems for issue tracking and version control.
• Scripting experience using languages such as Python and Bash to support development, testing, and automation tasks.
• U.S. citizenship and ability to obtain and maintain a Secret security clearance.
• Ability to work onsite full‑time and operate effectively in a team environment on cleared programs.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Experience with modern C++ standards, particularly C++11, in embedded environments.
• Strong debugging and integration skills on embedded targets, including multi‑threaded and distributed embedded systems.
• Experience working with SPs or ARM cores embedded in FPGAs and system‑on‑chip (SoC) devices.
• Experience with C and Embedded C in addition to C++ for low‑level software development.
• Experience with embedded Linux environments and associated toolchains.
• Active Secret security clearance is highly desirable.
• Top degree plus at least 2 years of experience in embedded software or a closely related field is beneficial.
• Ability to work independently, be self‑sufficient, and quickly become productive in a complex, mission‑focused environment.

Work Environment

This role operates in a collaborative, team‑oriented engineering environment where you work alongside other embedded software engineers and cross‑functional technical staff. The position is onsite five days per week due to the nature of cleared work and direct access to secure servers and hardware used on government programs. You will spend time both at your workstation and in the lab, validating and debugging code on embedded targets and RF‑based technology. The environment is fast‑paced and mission‑driven, with an emphasis on high‑reliability systems, Agile practices, and hands‑on problem solving. Standard engineering computing tools, Agile software tools such as Jira and Git, scripting environments like Python and Bash, and lab equipment for embedded hardware testing are regularly used.

This is a Contract position based out of Rolling Meadows, IL.

The pay range for this position is $55.00 - $80.00/hr.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: • Medical, dental & vision • Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital • 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available • Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) • Short and long-term disability • Health Spending Account (HSA) • Transportation benefits • Employee Assistance Program • Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

This is a fully onsite position in Rolling Meadows,IL.

This position is anticipated to close on Aug 26, 2026.

About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 20,000 consultants and 5,000 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500. We are proud to be an Engineering News-Record (ENR) Top 500 Design Firm for our engineering design services and a ClearlyRated Best of Staffing® winner for both client and talent service.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email actalentaccommodation@actalentservices.com for other accommodation options.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI): We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.