1

Contract Embedded Systems Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL

Sr Embedded Engineer

Aurora, IL · On-site

$99K - $135K/yr

Design and development of embedded firmware for sensor applications including sensor interfacing ... Collaborate with hardware engineers to define system requirements and specifications for sensor ...

(Hybrid) Description Are you passionate about embedded systems, from initial ideas to hardware design to final firmware? As an Embedded Engineer at DMC, you will use your embedded expertise and ...

New

Senior Embedded Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$127K - $167K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • PTO

The ideal candidate enjoys solving complex problems around secure boot, Linux systems, firmware ... Strong C and/or C++ programming skills * Deep experience with Embedded Linux environments * Hands ...

Embedded Software Engineer

Wheeling, IL

$127K - $190K/yr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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 ...

Embedded Software Engineer

Wheeling, IL · On-site

$127K - $190K/yr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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 ...

Job Purpose An Embedded Software Engineer II designs, develops, and maintains software for embedded systems. They apply engineering principles and programming knowledge to create solutions for ...

Embedded Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$100K - $160K/yr

We are seeking an embedded software engineer to develop and maintain low-level flight software for ... level system behavior while maintaining a strong focus on reliability and practical field ...

Embedded Software Engineer

IL

$135K - $178K/yr

... embedded systems. Expectations: This role blends hands-on engineering with cross-functional ... collaboration, technical problem solving, product lifecycle support and software technical ...

Principal Systems Engineer

Schaumburg, IL

$130K - $170K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Retirement

Experience in embedded software and/or electrical architecture and development. * Experience in ... government contracts Additional preferred skills: * Experience with development of wireless ...

Showing results 41-60

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 Aug 16, 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?

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 is a contract embedded systems engineer?

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 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 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 are popular job titles related to Contract Embedded Systems Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Contract Embedded Systems Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles 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:

Infographic showing various Contract Embedded Systems Engineer job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 90% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $141,412 per year, or $68 per hour.

Senior SW Test Engineer for Testing Embedded Systems - Custom Products

Motorola

Schaumburg, IL

$110K - $133K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Retirement

Re-posted 20 days ago


Motorola Solutions rating

8.7

Company rating: 8.7 out of 10

Based on 40 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

19th of 157 rated electronics manufacturers


Job description

Company Overview

At Motorola Solutions, we believe that everything starts with our people. We're a global close-knit community, united by the relentless pursuit to help keep people safer everywhere. We build and connect technologies to help protect people, property and places. Our solutions foster the collaboration that's critical for safer communities, safer schools, safer hospitals, safer businesses, and ultimately, safer nations. Connect with a career that matters, and help us build a safer future.


Department OverviewOur Applied Technology organization puts some of Motorola Solutions' brightest minds on unique, highly challenging projects. Based on decades of experience with our customers, we apply leading-edge technologies to support security and safety throughout the world. We engineer our products from start to finish and manufacture them in-house. We're known for low volume and high capability with focused specialization in areas including software-defined radios, advanced antenna solutions, artificial intelligence and machine learning, cybersecurity, signals intelligence and more. We can't tell you much more about what we do, but we can tell you it's amazing.
Job Description

Scope of Responsibilities:

Candidates for this position are software engineers with strong knowledge and hands-on experience in writing and executing software and hardware test plans for embedded systems.

The Test engineer will be responsible to plan the product test approach and scope, review project requirements and provide feedback, write software and hardware test cases, execute test cases, record and manage defects, and communicate issues, risks and status on a timely basis. You may also be responsible in driving the production and shipment of the final product.

The Test engineer analyzes, develops, designs, and maintains manual and software Automation Test scripts for the organization's products and systems. Performs system integration of software and hardware to maintain throughput and program consistency. Develops, validates, and tests: structures and user documentation. Assist in resolving customer field issues on live, production systems. Troubleshoot customer reported issues Maintain client/server product.

The testing conducted will be both manual and automated, using the existing software test environment and processes for all aspects of embedded system testing, including development and execution of tests for the product user interface, regression testing, performance verification, fault tolerance, and capacity testing for multiple products/projects. You will be a major contributor to the design, implementation and execution of both individual project test plans (automated and manual), as well as overall software test strategy for each product. A strong ability to closely work with software developers to clearly document faults, debug, troubleshoot and resolve problems is also needed to succeed.

Specific Knowledge/Skills:

- Minimum of 2 years software test development experience or embedded software experience and a desire to move into a software test development role.

- Demonstrated commitment to quality with a passion for testing

- Experience in Functional and Automated Software Testing

- Experience in testing Hardware and Embedded Systems

- Experience with testing Android products is desired.

- Experience establishing automated and manual software test strategies and processes

- Experience with Jira is a plus

- Experience in GIT version control is desired

- Strong ability to work independently, as well as, with highly cross-functional teams

- Superior analytical and problem solving skills

- Excellent oral and written communication skills

#AppliedTech #LI-JM2

Target Base Salary Range: $110,500 - $133,000 USD

Consistent with Motorola Solutions values and applicable law, we provide the following information to promote pay transparency and equity. Pay within this range varies and depends on job-related knowledge, skills, and experience. The actual offer will be based on the individual candidate.


Basic Requirements
  • BS or MS in Electrical Engineering or Computer Engineering

  • You must be a U.S. citizen with the ability to obtain necessary security clearance as required by government contracts


Travel RequirementsUnder 10%
Relocation ProvidedNone
Position TypeExperienced
Referral Payment PlanYes

Our U.S.Benefitsinclude:

  • Incentive Bonus Plans

  • Medical, Dental, Visionbenefits

  • 401K with Company Match

  • 10 Paid Holidays

  • GenerousPaidTime Off Packages

  • Employee Stock Purchase Plan

  • PaidParental & Family Leave

  • and more!


EEO Statement

Motorola Solutions is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion or belief, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status or any other legally-protected characteristic.

We are proud of our people-first and community-focused culture, empowering every Motorolan to be their most authentic self and to do their best work to deliver on the promise of a safer world. If you'd like to join our team but feel that you don't quite meet all of the preferred skills, we'd still love to hear why you think you'd be a great addition to our team.

We're committed to providing an inclusive and accessible recruiting experience for candidates with disabilities, or other physical or mental health conditions. To request an accommodation, please complete thisReasonable Accommodations Formso we can assist you.


What Motorola Solutions employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


Motorola Solutions logo

About Motorola Solutions

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Motorola Solutions, we believe that everything starts with safety. It's the constant that empowers people to confidently move forward. It can fill a flight or sell out a stadium. It can care for a patient or graduate a class. As a global leader in public safety and enterprise security, we create and connect the technologies that help to keep people safe where they live, learn, work and play. Our integrated technology ecosystem unifies critical communications, video security and access control, and command center software, enabling collaboration in more powerful ways. At Motorola Solutions, we're ushering in a new era in public safety and security. Bring your passion, potential and talents to a career that matters.

Industry

Technology, communication and media

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Chicago, IL, US

Year founded

1928