Contract Rf Optimization Engineer Jobs in Elgin, IL

Software Engineer / Principal Software Engineer

Job Description

This role focuses on designing, developing, integrating, and sustaining high-quality software solutions that support mission-critical, national defense capabilities. You will contribute to an enterprise digital transformation by applying Model Based Engineering, DevSecOps, and Agile practices. The position emphasizes collaboration, transparency, continuous learning, and a strong culture of automation while delivering software for RF business unit programs.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, integrate, and sustain software across the full development lifecycle, ensuring reliability, performance, and maintainability.

• Apply industry standards, engineering rigor, and best practices to software design and implementation in support of RF business unit programs.

• Develop and maintain software using C++ with a focus on robust, efficient, and scalable solutions.

• Create and enhance graphical user interfaces (GUIs), leveraging frameworks such as Qt to deliver intuitive and responsive user experiences.

• Work with database and management systems, including SQL, to support data storage, retrieval, and integration with application components.

• Support embedded software development activities, ensuring proper integration with hardware and other system components.

• Collaborate closely with customers, suppliers, and cross-functional engineering teams to understand requirements and translate them into effective software solutions.

• Participate in Agile development activities, including planning, reviews, and retrospectives, to continuously improve team processes and outcomes.

• Contribute to a culture of automation by implementing tools, scripts, and processes that enhance development, integration, and deployment workflows.

• Engage in continuous learning to stay current with emerging technologies, tools, and practices relevant to Model Based Engineering and DevSecOps.

Essential Skills

• Active Secret Clearance.

• Proficiency in C++ for software development.

• Experience developing graphical user interfaces (GUIs), preferably using the Qt framework.

• Experience working with database and management systems, including SQL.

• Experience with embedded software development.

• Ability to work effectively in cross-functional engineering teams and collaborate with customers and suppliers.

• Familiarity with Agile development practices.

• Ability to apply industry standards and engineering rigor throughout the software development lifecycle.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Experience with Model Based Engineering practices.

• Exposure to DevSecOps principles and tools.

• Interest in contributing to enterprise digital transformation initiatives.

• Strong commitment to continuous learning and process improvement.

Work Environment

You will work in a cutting-edge technology environment, contributing to programs such as ITDS that focus on advanced, mission-critical solutions. The work setting emphasizes modern engineering practices, including Model Based Engineering, DevSecOps, and Agile methodologies. Teams prioritize collaboration, transparency, continuous learning, and automation, providing an environment where engineers can innovate and refine their skills while supporting complex RF and embedded systems.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract position based out of Niles, IL.

Pay and Benefits

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)

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in Niles,IL.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Jun 25, 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 30,000 consultants and more than 4,500 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500.

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.