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Contract Embedded Systems Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL

Embedded Systems Engineer

Elmhurst, IL · On-site

$60K - $80K/yr

The Embedded Systems Engineer is responsible for the design and development of embedded applications on hardware platforms. The focus in this role includes creation of technical specifications ...

The Embedded Systems Engineer is responsible for the design and development of embedded applications on hardware platforms. The focus in this role includes creation of technical specifications ...

We are looking for an Embedded Systems Engineer to join our SmartGate team. SmartGate is Loadsmart's Physical AI platform for warehouses and distribution centers - computer vision systems deployed at ...

Senior Embedded Systems Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$131K - $175K/yr

Collaborate with physicists and across electrical, software, and opto-mechanical engineering domains to deliver optimal embedded system solutions for quantum applications. * Develop testable ...

Senior Embedded Systems Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$131K - $175K/yr

Collaborate with physicists and across electrical, software, and opto-mechanical engineering domains to deliver optimal embedded system solutions for quantum applications. * Develop testable ...

Senior Embedded Systems Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$131K - $175K/yr

Collaborate with physicists and across electrical, software, and opto-mechanical engineering domains to deliver optimal embedded system solutions for quantum applications. * Develop testable ...

Buffalo Grove, IL (Onsite) Employment Type: 6-Month Contract-to-Hire Compensation: Up to $70/hour ... systems. This role is ideal for a hands-on engineer who enjoys working close to hardware, solving ...

Contract We are seeking an Embedded Software Engineer with strong expertise in C++ development for Linux-based embedded systems. The ideal candidate will have hands-on experience with NXP i.MX8 Quad ...

Embedded Software Engineer

Elgin, IL · On-site

$130.70K - $171.90K/yr

Develop and maintain embedded applications on real-time operating systems, primarily Zephyr RTOS ... Collaborate cross-functionally with product management, engineering, QA, and manufacturing teams to ...

Embedded Software Engineer

Elgin, IL · On-site

$130.70K - $171.90K/yr

Develop and maintain embedded applications on real-time operating systems, primarily Zephyr RTOS ... Collaborate cross-functionally with product management, engineering, QA, and manufacturing teams to ...

Embedded C++ Developer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$65 - $70/hr

Are you a passionate and skilled Mid-Level Developer with a knack for C++ and embedded systems We ... This would be a contract to hire situation, ideally 6 month contract and then hire full-time, if ...

Engineer Sr, Embedded Systems Development

Niles, IL · Hybrid

$113.30K - $181.30K/yr

As a Senior Embedded Software Development Engineer, you will work in the Product Development ... Engage in unit, integration and testing of software components and systems. * Other duties as ...

Engineer Sr, Embedded Systems Development

Niles, IL · Hybrid

$113.30K - $181.30K/yr

As a Senior Embedded Software Development Engineer, you will work in the Product Development ... Engage in unit, integration and testing of software components and systems. * Other duties as ...

Engineer Sr, Embedded Systems Development

Niles, IL · Hybrid

$113.30K - $181.30K/yr

As a Senior Embedded Software Development Engineer, you will work in the Product Development ... Engage in unit, integration and testing of software components and systems. * Other duties as ...

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Showing results 1-20

Contract Embedded Systems Engineer information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$64.4K

$141.4K

$197.8K

How much do contract embedded systems engineer jobs pay per year?

As of May 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for contract embedded systems engineer in Chicago, IL is $141,412.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $114,900.00 and $168,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Contract Embedded Systems Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Contract Embedded Systems Engineer, you generally need a solid background in computer engineering or electrical engineering, with expertise in C/C++ programming, real-time operating systems (RTOS), and hardware-software integration. Familiarity with tools like oscilloscopes, logic analyzers, version control systems (such as Git), and protocols like SPI, I2C, or UART is typically required, along with certifications like Certified Embedded Systems Engineer (CESE) being advantageous. Strong problem-solving skills, adaptability, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for collaborating with diverse teams and clients. These skills and qualifications are essential to deliver reliable, efficient embedded solutions on time while meeting client specifications in a dynamic contract environment.

What are some common challenges faced by contract embedded systems engineers, and how can they be addressed?

Contract embedded systems engineers often encounter challenges such as rapidly adapting to new codebases, working within tight project timelines, and ensuring seamless integration with existing hardware and software. Success in this role often requires strong communication with both in-house and external teams to clarify requirements and resolve issues quickly. Proactively documenting your work, asking clarifying questions early, and leveraging version control systems can help manage these challenges and deliver reliable solutions on schedule.

What are Contract Embedded Systems Engineers?

Contract Embedded Systems Engineers are professionals hired on a temporary or project basis to design, develop, and maintain embedded systems—specialized computing systems that perform dedicated functions within larger mechanical or electrical systems. Unlike permanent employees, contract engineers typically work for a set period or until a specific project is completed, offering flexibility to both engineers and employers. They may work on projects involving hardware and software integration, firmware development, real-time operating systems, and troubleshooting embedded devices. Their skills are often sought in industries like automotive, consumer electronics, medical devices, and industrial automation.

What is the difference between Contract Embedded Systems Engineer vs Contract Firmware Engineer?

AspectContract Embedded Systems EngineerContract Firmware Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Electrical, Computer Engineering, or related; often certifications in embedded systemsBachelor's in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering; certifications in embedded or firmware development
Work EnvironmentDesigning and testing embedded hardware/software in labs or on-siteDeveloping and debugging firmware primarily in software environments
Employer & Industry UsageElectronics, aerospace, automotive, industrial automationConsumer electronics, IoT devices, robotics, embedded systems

Contract Embedded Systems Engineers focus on designing and integrating hardware and software for embedded systems, often working with both hardware and firmware. Contract Firmware Engineers specialize in developing low-level software that runs directly on embedded hardware. While both roles require embedded systems knowledge, the embedded systems engineer has a broader scope including hardware design, whereas firmware engineers concentrate on software development within embedded environments.

What are the most commonly searched types of Embedded Systems Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Embedded Systems Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What job categories do people searching Contract Embedded Systems Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Contract Embedded Systems Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Contract Embedded Systems Engineer jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Contract Embedded Systems Engineer job openings:
Embedded Systems Engineer

Embedded Systems Engineer

matchsource llc

Elmhurst, IL • On-site

$60K - $80K/yr

Full-time

Posted 3 days ago


Job description

Company Description
This Manufacturing company of home control products has withstood the test
of time. Today they not only continue their traditional manufacturing
product lines, but also have become a leader in home automation.
Their smartphone enabled and connected products are at the forefront
of the Internet of Things movement. The company currently has a need
for an Embedded Systems Engineer.
Job Description
The Embedded Systems Engineer is responsible for the design and
development of embedded applications on hardware platforms. The
focus in this role includes creation of technical specifications,
application firmware design and development, and support for
manufacturing and regulatory approval. Knowledge of basic software
development practices and principles is required. An Embedded
Systems Engineer must support their peers in day to day development
activities and be able to troubleshoot platform defects of limited
complexity.
Responsibilities:
  • Design, develop and implement application level firmware solutions to meet
    business needs
  • Work with stakeholders to understand functional requirements of systems to
    accurately develop designs, implementations and test cases
  • Create and maintain technical specifications as related to product development
  • Work with senior engineers to implement scalable system architecture and
    modular functional blocks that meet product requirement needs
  • Use design analysis techniques such as FMEA or rate monotonic analysis to
    validate software designs prior to implementation
  • Use TDD to create unit test cases that accurately test interface functionality
    and responses to varied inputs both in and out of scope
  • Analyze, troubleshoot, and resolve firmware defects as found during bench,
    lab, and production QA testing
  • Apply software quality tools such as Lint, Understand, and other static
    and dynamic analysis tools to verify software releases meet quality
    and coding standards
  • Support regulatory engineering for FCC and other outside agency approval of
    end products
  • Support manufacturing on site during as needed for engineering and
    production builds
  • Actively contribute to the adoption of software architecture, best practices,
    and technologies

Qualifications
Requirements:
  • 1 to 3 years of experience
  • Excellent understanding of application development tools, processes, and
    technologies
  • Good working knowledge of software development in embedded C or
    comparable language
  • Experience in all aspects of a product life cycle - Requirements, Design,
    Development, HW/SW integration and test
  • Demonstrated ability to identify problems and effectively raise issues
  • Self-driven, goal oriented, and efficient
  • Functions well in a team environment and has the ability to adapt quickly

Nice to Have:
  • Object-oriented programming experience in C#, C++, Java or .Net is a plus
  • Experience with TCP, UDP, HTTP, Web Sockets, MQTT or other connected protocol
    is a plus
  • Embedded integration with cloud, smart home, or server back end
    infrastructures is a plus
  • Experience with Agile development processes is a plus

Education:
  • BSCS, BSCE or BSEE is required

Additional Information
All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.
Salary: $60,000 - $80,000 commensurate with experience