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Embedded Flight Software Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL

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 ...

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 ...

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 ...

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Embedded Flight Software Engineer information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$72.1K

$158K

$179.2K

How much do embedded flight software engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for embedded flight software engineer in Chicago, IL is $158,007.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $135,500.00 and $178,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges Embedded Flight Software Engineers face when working on spacecraft projects?

Embedded Flight Software Engineers often work under strict reliability and safety requirements, which means testing and validation are critical and highly rigorous. They frequently collaborate with hardware engineers to ensure software and hardware integration is seamless, and must manage constraints such as limited processing power and memory. Additionally, they need to adapt to changing project requirements and tight deadlines, all while staying up-to-date with evolving aerospace standards and technologies. These challenges make strong problem-solving skills and effective communication essential in this role.

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

To thrive as an Embedded Flight Software Engineer, you need a strong background in computer science or engineering, proficiency in C/C++ programming, and experience with real-time operating systems (RTOS) and embedded systems. Familiarity with aerospace standards, software development tools (such as Git, Jenkins), and certifications like DO-178C for software safety are typically required. Exceptional problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective teamwork are valuable soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure reliable, safe, and efficient software for mission-critical aerospace applications.

What is the difference between Embedded Flight Software Engineer vs Embedded Systems Engineer?

AspectEmbedded Flight Software EngineerEmbedded Systems Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's or higher in Electrical, Computer Engineering, or related; experience with aerospace standardsBachelor's or higher in Electrical, Computer Engineering, or related; similar certifications often preferred
Work EnvironmentSpacecraft, satellites, aerospace industry, safety-critical systemsConsumer electronics, automotive, industrial devices, various industries
Industry UsagePrimarily in aerospace and defense sectorsBroad industry application including automotive, medical, consumer electronics
Search & Comparison IntentOften compared due to specialized embedded software in aerospaceMore general embedded systems roles in various sectors

Embedded Flight Software Engineers focus on developing software for aerospace applications like satellites and spacecraft, requiring specialized knowledge of aerospace standards. In contrast, Embedded Systems Engineers work across multiple industries, designing software for everyday devices. While both roles involve embedded programming, the industry focus and application environments differ significantly.

What are Embedded Flight Software Engineers?

Embedded Flight Software Engineers design, develop, test, and maintain software that runs on embedded computer systems within aircraft, spacecraft, or satellites. They work closely with hardware engineers to ensure that the software interfaces correctly with sensors, actuators, and control systems used for flight operations. Their responsibilities often include programming in languages like C or C++, debugging real-time systems, and ensuring compliance with safety and reliability standards. This role is critical in ensuring the safe and efficient operation of aerospace vehicles.
What are popular job titles related to Embedded Flight Software Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL? For Embedded Flight Software Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Sr Principal Engineer Embedded Software

Sr Principal Engineer Embedded Software

Northrop Grumman Corporation

Rolling Meadows, IL

Full-time

Medical, Life, PTO

Posted 3 days ago


Northrop Grumman rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 340 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

110th of 519 rated manufacturers


Job description

RELOCATION ASSISTANCE: No relocation assistance availableCLEARANCE REQUIRED FOR START: YesCLEARANCE TYPE: SAPTRAVEL: Yes, 10% of the TimeDescriptionAt 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 awide portfolio of secure, affordable, integrated, and multi-domain systems and technologies. Our differentiated battlemanagement and cyber solutions deliver timely, mission-enabling information and provide superior situational awarenessand understanding to protect the U.S. and its global allies.

Northrop Grumman Mission Systems is looking for you to join us as aSr. Principal Engineer, Embedded Software - Manufacturing Test Engineering (Advanced EO)based on-siteinRolling 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:

  • Plan and Implement software architecture strategies and drive project execution for Manufacturing Engineering acceptance test software 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.
  • Design, integrate, validate, and release software for Acceptance Testing of LRUs and System level sell-off.
  • 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.

Basic Qualifications for the Sr. Principal Embedded Software Engineer (Advanced EO):

  • Bachelor of Science (BS) degree in Computer Science, Electrical and/or Computer Engineering or related STEM degree with a minimum of 8 years relevant work experience; OR a Master of Science (MS) degree in equivalent fields with a minimum of 6 years' relevant work experience.
  • Experience using C#
  • Experience using Agile practices and performing Earned Value.
  • Experience with reading schematics and interpreting electrical one-lines.
  • 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 Sr. Principal Embedded Software Engineer (Advanced EO):

  • 8 or more years of experience in electronic hardware Manufacturing environment and/or electronic hardware software or firmware design environment preferred.
  • Experience using Unified Modeling Language (UML) to develop structural and behavioral software models.
  • Experience in Markdown/Visual Studio Code
  • Experience with software systems architecture
  • 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, etc.
  • Experience generating test data outputs optimized for long-term trend analysis
  • Experience in troubleshooting 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: $135,800.00 - $203,600.00The 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