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Embedded Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Actalent

Embedded Software Engineer

Schaumburg, IL

$55 - $75/hr

Embedded Software Engineer An exciting opportunity awaits an Embedded Software Engineer to join our mission-critical RF programs. This role involves developing and integrating C++ embedded software ...

matchsource llc

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 ...

matchsource llc

Embedded Systems Engineer

Elmhurst, IL

$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 ...

Actalent

Embedded Software Engineer

Morton Grove, IL

$60 - $80/hr

Lead embedded software engineering projects from inception through delivery, ensuring they meet quality, safety, and performance requirements. * Oversee and manage advanced software development ...

New

IDEX Corporation

Embedded Software Engineer

Wheeling, IL · On-site

$127K - $190K/yr

SUMMARY OF PRIMARY FUNCTION The Embedded software Engineer is a key member of the IDEX-Dispensing team. He/she will work both with local team members as well as with global dispensing units (FFM ...

IDEX

Embedded Software Engineer

Wheeling, IL · On-site

$127K - $190K/yr

SUMMARY OF PRIMARY FUNCTION The Embedded software Engineer is a key member of the IDEX-Dispensing team. He\she will work both with local team members as well as with global dispensing units (FFM ...

Wabtec

Embedded Software Engineer III

Buffalo Grove, IL · On-site

$134K - $177K/yr

Reporting to the Engineering Manager or Supervisor, you will design and develop embedded software-based products, contribute to product development, and ensure compliance with engineering standards.

Wabtec

Embedded Software Engineer III

Buffalo Grove, IL · On-site

$134K - $177K/yr

Reporting to the Engineering Manager or Supervisor, you will design and develop embedded software-based products, contribute to product development, and ensure compliance with engineering standards.

Wabtec

Embedded Software Engineer III

Buffalo Grove, IL · On-site

$134K - $177K/yr

Reporting to the Engineering Manager or Supervisor, you will design and develop embedded software-based products, contribute to product development, and ensure compliance with engineering standards.

Wabtec

Embedded Software Engineer III

Buffalo Grove, IL

$134K - $177K/yr

Reporting to the Engineering Manager or Supervisor, you will design and develop embedded software-based products, contribute to product development, and ensure compliance with engineering standards.

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Showing results 1-20

All JobsEmbedded Engineer JobsEmbedded Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL

Embedded Engineer information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$72.2K

$158.1K

$179.4K

How much do embedded engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for embedded engineer in Chicago, IL is $158,132.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $135,600.00 and $178,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What engineers make $500,000?

Senior engineers in specialized fields such as software, electrical, or systems engineering can earn $500,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced skills, and leadership roles. High compensation often involves working in industries like technology, aerospace, or finance, and may include bonuses, stock options, or profit sharing.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior embedded engineers with extensive experience, specialized skills in hardware and software integration, and often advanced certifications can earn $300,000 or more annually. High compensation is typically associated with leadership roles, working in high-demand industries like aerospace or defense, or in companies with competitive pay structures.

What is the difference between Embedded Engineer vs Firmware Engineer?

AspectEmbedded EngineerFirmware Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Electrical, Computer Engineering, or related fields; certifications like ARM or IoT certifications are commonBachelor's in Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or related; often similar certifications in embedded systems or firmware development
Work EnvironmentDesigning and developing hardware-software integrated systems, often in industrial, automotive, or consumer electronicsWriting, testing, and debugging low-level code that runs directly on hardware devices like microcontrollers or embedded processors
Employer & Industry UsageElectronics manufacturers, automotive, aerospace, IoT companiesConsumer electronics, IoT devices, medical devices, automotive systems

Embedded Engineers and Firmware Engineers often work closely, but Embedded Engineers focus on both hardware and software integration, while Firmware Engineers specialize in low-level code development that runs directly on hardware. Both roles require similar skills and certifications, but their primary focus and work environment differ slightly.

What does an embedded engineer do?

An embedded engineer designs, develops, and tests software and hardware for embedded systems, which are specialized computing devices within larger systems such as appliances, vehicles, or industrial machines. They work with microcontrollers, real-time operating systems, and programming languages like C or C++, often collaborating with hardware engineers to ensure system functionality and reliability.

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

To thrive as an Embedded Engineer, you need a solid background in computer science or electrical engineering, with strong skills in C/C++, microcontroller programming, and embedded systems design. Familiarity with real-time operating systems (RTOS), hardware debugging tools, and version control systems like Git is typically required, and certifications such as Certified Embedded Systems Engineer (CESE) can be beneficial. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication are standout soft skills in this field. These competencies are crucial for developing reliable, efficient embedded solutions that integrate seamlessly with hardware and meet user requirements.

What are some common challenges faced by Embedded Engineers when working on cross-functional teams?

Embedded Engineers often collaborate closely with hardware designers, software developers, and test engineers, which can present challenges related to communication and integration. Aligning the firmware with hardware specifications, managing resource constraints, and ensuring timely debugging across different platforms are frequent hurdles. To succeed, Embedded Engineers need strong communication skills and a collaborative mindset to bridge gaps between disciplines and deliver cohesive, reliable systems.

Will an embedded engineer be replaced by AI?

Embedded engineers design and develop software and hardware for embedded systems, and while AI can automate certain tasks like testing and data analysis, it is unlikely to fully replace the need for human engineers who require specialized knowledge of hardware, real-time constraints, and system integration. AI tools can augment their work but do not currently replace the critical thinking and problem-solving skills essential to the role.
What are the most commonly searched types of Embedded Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Embedded Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What are popular job titles related to Embedded Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL? For Embedded Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Embedded Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Embedded Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Embedded Engineer jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Embedded Engineer job openings:
Embedded Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Embedded Engineer job openings in Chicago, IL as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 2% Temporary, and 8% Contract. Highlights an 83% In-person, 7% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $158,132 per year, or $76 per hour.
Embedded Software Engineer

Embedded Software Engineer

Actalent

Schaumburg, IL

$55 - $75/hr

Contractor

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 3 days ago

Job description

Job Title: Embedded Software Engineer

Job Description

An exciting opportunity awaits an Embedded Software Engineer to join our mission-critical RF programs. This role involves developing and integrating C++ embedded software on real-time operating systems such as Linux within an Agile, lab-based engineering environment. You will be engaged in the full software lifecycle, from requirements gathering to design, coding, testing, and hardware integration, working collaboratively with cross-functional engineering teams to deliver high-reliability defense systems.

Responsibilities

  • Develop and integrate embedded software using C++ on real-time operating systems.
  • Engage in the full software lifecycle, including requirements, design, coding, testing, and hardware integration.
  • Collaborate with cross-functional engineering teams to ensure high-reliability defense systems.
  • Conduct on-target lab testing and debugging.
  • Utilize Agile workflows and tools such as Jira and Git.

Essential Skills

  • Bachelor’s degree with 8 years of experience, Master’s with 6 years, or equivalent experience.
  • Strong proficiency in C++ and object-oriented programming.
  • Experience developing embedded software on Linux or other RTOS.
  • Hands-on experience in a lab environment for testing, debugging, and integrating software on hardware.
  • Familiarity with Agile development methodologies and tools like Jira, Git, or similar.
  • Scripting experience in languages such as Python or Bash.
  • U.S. Citizenship and ability to obtain a Secret clearance.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

  • Experience with C++11.
  • Strong debugging and integration skills on embedded targets.
  • Experience with multi-threaded or distributed embedded systems.
  • Active Secret clearance is preferred.
  • Experience with SPs or ARM cores embedded in FPGAs/SoCs.
Job Type & Location

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

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $55.00 - $75.00/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 Schaumburg,IL.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Jul 16, 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.

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About Actalent

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Actalent connects passion with purpose. Our scalable talent solutions and services capabilities drive value and results and provide the expertise to help our customers achieve more. Every day, our experts around the globe are making an impact. We're supporting critical initiatives in engineering and sciences that advance how companies serve the world. Actalent promotes consultant care and engagement through experiences that enable continuous development. Our people are the difference. Actalent is an operating company of Allegis Group, the global leader in talent solutions.

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Hanover, MD, US

Year founded

1983

Social media

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