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Embedded Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

We are looking for a versatile Embedded Software Engineer to join our signal processing group. This role is designed for a core systems expert who thrives on low-level development, hardware-to ...

We are seeking an Embedded Software Engineer to help drive the development of next-generation connected fitness equipment. In this role, you will design, build, and optimize embedded systems that ...

We are seeking an Embedded Software Engineer to help drive the development of next-generation connected fitness equipment. In this role, you will design, build, and optimize embedded systems that ...

As a Senior Embedded Software Development Engineer, you will work in the Product Development Division designing, implementing, testing, and integrating real time, multitasking software for Shure ...

As a Senior Embedded Software Development Engineer, you will work in the Product Development Division designing, implementing, testing, and integrating real time, multitasking software for Shure ...

As a Senior Embedded Software Development Engineer, you will work in the Product Development Division designing, implementing, testing, and integrating real time, multitasking software for Shure ...

As a Senior Embedded Software Development Engineer, you will work in the Product Development Division designing, implementing, testing, and integrating real time, multitasking software for Shure ...

Position Overview Embedded C++ Developer About the Role: Are you a passionate and skilled Mid-Level Developer with a knack for C++ and embedded systems We're looking for a motivated technologist to ...

Embedded C++ Developer About the Role:Are you a passionate and skilled Mid-Level Developer with a knack for C++ and embedded systems? We're looking for a motivated technologist to join our innovative ...

Embedded C++ Developer Location: Chicago, IL 60606 Duration: 7 Months Job Type: Temporary Assignment Work Type: Onsite Position Summary Are you a passionate and skilled Mid-Level Developer with a ...

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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 Jun 14, 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 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 maintains software that runs on embedded systems—specialized computing devices not typically considered computers, such as automotive controllers, medical devices, and consumer electronics. These engineers write code that interacts directly with hardware, optimizing for performance, reliability, and resource constraints. Their work often involves using languages like C and C++, debugging hardware-software interactions, and ensuring the embedded system meets all functional and safety requirements.

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.
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 cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Embedded Engineer jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Embedded Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Embedded Engineer job openings in Chicago, IL as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, 3% Part Time, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 86% Physical, 7% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $158,132 per year, or $76 per hour.
Engineer Embedded Software

Engineer Embedded Software

Northrop Grumman Corporation

Rolling Meadows, IL • On-site

$132K - $174K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, PTO

Posted yesterday


Northrop Grumman rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 339 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

109th of 518 rated manufacturers


Job description

RELOCATION ASSISTANCE: No relocation assistance available
CLEARANCE REQUIRED FOR START: Yes
CLEARANCE TYPE: SAP
TRAVEL: Yes, 10% of the TimeDescription
At Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work - and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible. Our employees are not only part of history, they're making history.
Northrop Grumman Mission Systems is a trusted provider of mission-enabling solutions for global security. We have a wide portfolio of secure, affordable, integrated, and multi-domain systems and technologies. Our differentiated battle management and cyber solutions deliver timely, mission-enabling information and provide superior situational awareness and understanding to protect the U.S. and its global allies.
Northrop Grumman Mission Systems is looking for you to join us as an Engineer, Embedded Software - Manufacturing Test Engineering (Advanced EO) based on-site in Rolling Meadows, IL.
Manufacturing Engineers thrive in an environment of daily unique challenges and close proximity to products. Engineers who do well in this setting enjoy seeing their work perform in a test or a product, collaborate and communicate well across functions, and are innovative problem solvers. Best suited to this role are those who enjoy learning and bring a sense of urgency and energy to their tasks.
This position will support software efforts associated with testing Electro-Optical Infrared (EOIR) production hardware in a dynamic, fast-paced and technically challenging production environment.
Behavioral Traits sought out:
  • The Manufacturing Software Engineers are expected to be problem solvers with the ability to provide results that are innovative and often achieved through collaboration across functional groups.
  • We seek individuals with proven excellence in the following 6 core competencies:
  • a) High levels of Self-accountability and Ownership
  • b) Acts with Speed
  • c) Responds to Challenges with Resilience
  • d) Leads with Courage
  • e) Sets vision for the assigned products
  • f) Builds a High Performing Team

This position will be full-time, on-site at our Rolling Meadows, IL. location.
This position is contingent upon funding/contract award, special access program, and acquiring and maintaining the necessary US Government security clearance per customers' requirements prior to start.
What you will get to do:
  • Design, integrate, validate, and release software for Acceptance Testing of LRUs and System level sell-off supporting multiple Line Replaceable Units (LRUs) and system-level testing for a new product introduction in Manufacturing.
  • Collaborate with the Integrated Product Team (IPT) to coordinate cross-functional test software development from requirements capture through final validation and release, and driving collaboration among product design engineers, test hardware engineers, quality assurance engineers, and manufacturing technicians.
  • Develop and maintain documentation for Manufacturing Acceptance Test, Environmental Screening procedures, and drawings of test equipment and fixtures.
  • Review testability of products and collaborate with design engineering to achieve testability in new and updated product design.

The ideal candidate will have:
  • Familiarity with communication protocols including RS-232, RS-422/485, GPIB, TCP/IP
  • Familiarity with reading schematics and interpreting electrical one-lines.

Basic Qualifications for the Embedded Software Engineer (Advanced EO):
  • Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Electrical and/or Computer Engineering or related STEM degree with a minimum of 2 years of relevant work experience; OR a Master's degree in equivalent fields with 0 or more years of relevant work experience.
  • Experience using C#
  • Ability to obtain and maintain a minimum of a Secret Clearance with additional customer specified clearance prior to start.
  • US Citizenship required.

Preferred Qualifications for the Embedded Software Engineer (Advanced EO):
  • 2 or more years of experience in electronic hardware Manufacturing environment and/or electronic hardware software or firmware design environment preferred.
  • Experience with use of EOIR test instruments such as (but not limited to) Oscilloscope, Signal Generator, Collimators, Black Bodies, Target Wheels, Power Meters, etc.
  • Experience with EOIR tests such as Modular Transfer Function (MTF) measurements, Non-Uniformity Correction (NUC), Noise-Equivalent Irradiance (NEI), Operability, Motion Control
  • Experience developing GUIs in Visual Studio
  • Linux OS Experience
  • Experience developing automated test software
  • Experience in troubleshooting a unit under test.
  • Experience using GitHub.

What We Can Offer You:
Northrop Grumman provides a comprehensive benefits package and a work environment that encourages your growth and supports the mutual success of our people and our company. Northrop Grumman benefits give you the flexibility and control to choose the benefits that make the most sense for you and your family.
Your benefits will include the following: Health Plan, Savings Plan, Paid Time Off, and Additional Benefits, including Education Assistance, Training and Development, 9/80 Work Schedule (where available), and much more!
#MPR
Primary Level Salary Range: $87,600.00 - $131,400.00
The above salary range represents a general guideline; however, Northrop Grumman considers a number of factors when determining base salary offers such as the scope and responsibilities of the position and the candidate's experience, education, skills and current market conditions.
Depending on the position, employees may be eligible for overtime, shift differential, and a discretionary bonus in addition to base pay. Annual bonuses are designed to reward individual contributions as well as allow employees to share in company results. Employees in Vice President or Director positions may be eligible for Long Term Incentives. In addition, Northrop Grumman provides a variety of benefits including health insurance coverage, life and disability insurance, savings plan, Company paid holidays and paid time off (PTO) for vacation and/or personal business.
The application period for the job is estimated to be 20 days from the job posting date. However, this timeline may be shortened or extended depending on business needs and the availability of qualified candidates.
Northrop Grumman is an Equal Opportunity Employer, making decisions without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, or any other protected class. For our complete EEO and pay transparency statement, please visit http://www.northropgrumman.com/EEO. U.S. Citizenship is required for all positions with a government clearance and certain other restricted positions.

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About Northrop Grumman

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work - and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible.

Industry

Space research administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Falls Church, VA, US

Year founded

1939