ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Embedded Firmware Developer Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

NEOTECH

Firmware Engineer (24760)

Naperville, IL · On-site

About the Role We are seeking a talented Embedded Firmware Engineer to design, develop, and maintain firmware for embedded systems used in our products. You will work closely with hardware, software ...

NEOTech

Firmware Engineer (24760)

Naperville, IL · On-site

$85K - $95K/yr

About the Role We are seeking a talented Embedded Firmware Engineer to design, develop, and maintain firmware for embedded systems used in our products. You will work closely with hardware, software ...

Comrise

Embedded C++ Developer

Buffalo Grove, IL · On-site

$70/hr

Design, develop, test, and maintain embedded software and firmware applications using modern C++ * Work closely with cross-functional teams including software engineering, QA, systems engineering ...

sunpowerconsulting

Firmware Engine

Chicago, IL · On-site

... embedded environment utilizing popular 8/16 bit microcontrollers and DSP experience ... Must be strong with C/C++ programming 2. Excellent digital and analog hardware knowledge3.

Sun Power Consulting

Firmware Engine

Chicago, IL · On-site

... embedded environment utilizing popular 8/16 bit microcontrollers and DSP experience ... Must be strong with C/C++ programming 2. Excellent digital and analog hardware knowledge3.

Iterna LLC

Be Seen First

Electrical Design Engineer

Bolingbrook, IL

We are looking for an experienced Electrical Design Engineer to support the design and development ... This role focuses on schematic design, PCB layout, and embedded firmware development, and plays a ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsEmbedded Firmware Developer JobsEmbedded Firmware Developer Jobs in Chicago, IL

Embedded Firmware Developer information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$49

$54

$56

How much do embedded firmware developer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for embedded firmware developer in Chicago, IL is $54.19, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $52.79 and $55.77 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an embedded firmware developer?

An embedded firmware developer designs, develops, and maintains low-level software that runs on embedded systems such as microcontrollers and IoT devices. They typically work with programming languages like C or C++, and use tools like debuggers and hardware interfaces to ensure the firmware operates reliably within hardware constraints.

What are some common challenges an Embedded Firmware Developer faces when integrating new hardware components into existing systems?

Integrating new hardware components often requires Embedded Firmware Developers to adapt existing code to support different communication protocols or hardware interfaces. This process can be challenging due to limited documentation, real-time resource constraints, and the need to ensure compatibility with legacy systems. Developers must also rigorously test the firmware to catch timing and synchronization issues, which are crucial in embedded environments. Close collaboration with hardware engineers and thorough debugging are essential to successfully overcome these integration challenges.

What engineer makes $500,000 a year?

Highly experienced embedded firmware developers working in specialized industries such as aerospace, defense, or high-end technology companies can earn salaries approaching or exceeding $500,000 annually, especially with senior roles, advanced skills, and leadership responsibilities. Such compensation often includes bonuses, stock options, or profit sharing. These roles typically require extensive expertise in low-level programming, real-time systems, and hardware integration.

What are Embedded Firmware Developers?

Embedded Firmware Developers are engineers who design, write, and test the low-level software (firmware) that runs on embedded systems. These systems are specialized computing devices found in products like cars, medical devices, appliances, and industrial machines. Firmware developers work closely with hardware engineers to ensure the software efficiently controls and interacts with hardware components, often using programming languages like C or C++. Their work is crucial for the reliable operation and functionality of devices that rely on embedded technology.

Are firmware developers in demand?

Firmware developers are in high demand due to the growth of IoT devices, embedded systems, and automation across industries. Skills in C, C++, and real-time operating systems increase employability, and many companies seek professionals with experience in hardware-software integration and debugging. The field offers strong job prospects with competitive salaries and opportunities for specialization.

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

To thrive as an Embedded Firmware Developer, you need a solid background in computer science or electrical engineering, strong programming skills in C/C++, and experience with microcontroller architectures. Familiarity with development tools like debuggers, oscilloscopes, version control systems (e.g., Git), and real-time operating systems (RTOS) is typically required. Analytical problem-solving, attention to detail, and effective teamwork distinguish top performers in this role. These competencies are crucial for designing reliable, efficient firmware that integrates seamlessly with hardware and meets project requirements.

What is the difference between Embedded Firmware Developer vs Embedded Software Engineer?

AspectEmbedded Firmware DeveloperEmbedded Software Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or related fields; knowledge of C/C++Bachelor's in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or related; proficiency in C/C++, RTOS
Work EnvironmentHardware-focused, working closely with microcontrollers and embedded systemsSoftware-focused, developing applications for embedded platforms
Industry UsageConsumer electronics, automotive, medical devicesIndustrial automation, IoT devices, consumer electronics
Search & Comparison IntentYesYes

Embedded Firmware Developers primarily focus on programming microcontrollers and firmware directly interacting with hardware. Embedded Software Engineers develop higher-level software for embedded systems, often working on applications running on embedded OS or platforms. Both roles require similar technical skills but differ in hardware interaction depth and scope.

How much do embedded firmware engineers make?

Embedded firmware engineers typically earn between $70,000 and $120,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and industry. Senior roles or those with specialized skills in real-time operating systems or hardware interfaces can command higher salaries.
Embedded Firmware Developer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Embedded Firmware Developer job openings in Chicago, IL as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 79% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 4% Nights. Highlights an 80% Physical, 7% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $112,718 per year, or $54.2 per hour.

Embedded Firmware Engineer

Ignite Human Capital

Naperville, IL • On-site

Full-time

Posted 14 days ago

Job description

Embedded Firmware Engineer Opportunity 
(Naperville, IL – Hybrid/Onsite)

A growing engineering and manufacturing organization is looking to add an Embedded Firmware Engineer to its team. This role offers the chance to work on real-world embedded products from concept through production in a collaborative engineering environment.

🔹 Develop embedded firmware in C/C++
🔹 Work with ARM Cortex, PIC, AVR, and similar microcontrollers
🔹 RTOS, low-level drivers, board bring-up, debugging
🔹 Hands-on work with SPI, I2C, UART, CAN, ADC, GPIO
🔹 Opportunity to work closely with hardware and systems teams
🔹 Salary range: $85K–$95K

Ideal for someone who enjoys hands-on embedded development and solving hardware/software integration challenges.

U.S. Citizenship required due to ITAR/CUI compliance.
Apply to this post or email your resume directly to: dan@ignite-hc.com 

#FirmwareEngineer #EmbeddedSystems #EmbeddedEngineering #CProgramming #CPP #RTOS #Microcontrollers #ElectricalEngineering #EngineeringJobs #TechJobs #FirmwareDevelopment #NapervilleJobs #Hiring

Powered by JazzHR

o8PXg0oJEh