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Contract Embedded Systems Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL

Embedded Software Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$135K - $178K/yr

* Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Computer Science, or related technical field * 5+ years of ... Experience developing embedded systems in a real-time operating system (RTOS) environment * Strong ...

Embedded Software Engineer

Wheeling, IL · On-site

$127.20 - $190.80/hr

Summary of Primary Function The Embedded Software Engineer is a key member of the IDEX-Dispensing ... Strong understanding and experience with control systems, algorithm implementation, and signal ...

Sr Embedded Engineer

Aurora, IL · Hybrid

$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 ...

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 ...

Senior Embedded Engineer

Chicago, IL

$127K - $167K/yr

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 ...

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

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/Rust Software Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site +1

$135K - $178K/yr

Embedded/Rust Software Engineer REMOTE USC/GC C, C++, Python, Rust (5+ yrs), RTOS, Bare Metal, WiFi, BLE, SPI/I2C/UART/USB, Embedded Systems, Project Leadership. Join our team as a Tenured Embedded ...

Embedded/Rust Software Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site +1

$135K - $178K/yr

Embedded/Rust Software Engineer REMOTE USC/GC C, C++, Python, Rust (5+ yrs), RTOS, Bare Metal, WiFi, BLE, SPI/I2C/UART/USB, Embedded Systems, Project Leadership. Join our team as a Tenured Embedded ...

Sr. Hardware Design Engineer

Morton Grove, IL · On-site

$109K - $146K/yr

Design, develop, and maintain embedded hardware for intelligent control and monitoring systems ... Conduct root-cause analysis and engineering diagnostics on deployed products at both hardware and ...

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 Sep 6, 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 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 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 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 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 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $141,412 per year, or $68 per hour.

Embedded Software Engineer

3B Staffing LLC

Chicago, IL • On-site

$135K - $178K/yr

Full-time

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

  • Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Computer Science, or related technical field
  • 5+ years of embedded software development experience
  • 5+ years of experience with Embedded C and MATLAB/Simulink
  • Experience developing embedded systems in a real-time operating system (RTOS) environment
  • Strong troubleshooting, analytical, and communication skills
  • Ability to work independently and within a team in a fast-paced environment