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Embedded Hardware Developer Jobs in Kankakee, IL

Embedded Hardware Developer information

See Kankakee, IL salary details

$68.7K

$125K

$175K

How much do embedded hardware developer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for embedded hardware developer in Kankakee, IL is $125,022.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $96,600.00 and $150,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Embedded Hardware Developer vs Embedded Systems Engineer?

AspectEmbedded Hardware DeveloperEmbedded Systems Engineer
Primary FocusDesign and development of hardware components for embedded systemsDesign and integration of both hardware and software for embedded systems
Required SkillsHardware design, PCB layout, circuit analysisHardware knowledge plus software programming, RTOS, firmware
Work EnvironmentHardware labs, prototyping, testing hardwareMultidisciplinary teams, hardware and software integration
Common CertificationsASIC/FPGA design, PCB certificationEmbedded systems certifications, RTOS training

While both roles work closely in embedded systems development, Embedded Hardware Developers focus primarily on hardware design and testing, whereas Embedded Systems Engineers handle both hardware and software integration. The roles often overlap, but their core responsibilities differ in scope and expertise.

What job categories do people searching Embedded Hardware Developer jobs in Kankakee, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Embedded Hardware Developer jobs in Kankakee, IL are:
What cities near Kankakee, IL are hiring for Embedded Hardware Developer jobs? Cities near Kankakee, IL with the most Embedded Hardware Developer job openings:
Engineer II - Software Engineering (Firmware) Signaling Division

Engineer II - Software Engineering (Firmware) Signaling Division

Federal Signal

Crete, IL

$68K - $98K/yr

Full-time

Posted 11 hours ago


Federal Signal rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

196th of 427 rated machine equipment manufacturers


Job description

The successful candidate will be responsible for designing, developing, and testing the low-level software (firmware) that controls the functionality of electronic hardware devices, like embedded systems and computer peripherals, requiring a deep understanding of hardware architecture and proficiency in programming languages like C/C++ to create code that interacts directly with the hardware components, often utilizing real-time operating systems (RTOS) to ensure timely system responses; they collaborate with hardware engineers to ensure seamless integration and troubleshoot issues throughout the product development cycle.

Essential Job Duties & Responsibilities:

  • Develop firmware architectures and algorithms to meet product requirements, considering hardware constraints and performance optimization.
  • Write clean, efficient, and well-documented firmware code using embedded C/C++ programming languages, adhering to coding standards and best practices.
  • Understand and utilize various hardware components like microcontrollers, memory, peripherals, and communication interfaces to interact with them through firmware.
  • Work with RTOS to manage system tasks with precise timing and priority levels.
  • Conduct thorough unit integration, and system-level testing to identify and resolve firmware defects, utilizing debugging tools and techniques.
  • Work closely with hardware engineers to ensure smooth integration between firmware and hardware components, addressing design challenges and providing feedback.
  • Create detailed technical documentation for firmware design, implementation, and testing procedures.
  • Support existing firmware by implementing bug fixes, feature enhancements, and updates to address customer needs.
  • May include travel to the field and/or trade shows.
  • Perform product evaluations to determine if engineering standards are met.
  • Flexibility to perform other duties and assignments as required

Position Requirements:

  • Bachelor's degree in computer science or equivalent from an accredited university.
  • 5-7 years of previous experience in a similar role.
  • Strong proficiency in C/C++ programming languages with a focus on embedded systems.
  • Deep knowledge of microcontroller architectures, memory management, peripherals, and communication protocols.
  • Experience with popular RTOS like FreeRTOS, Zephyr, or similar.
  • Familiarity with IDEs, debuggers, emulators, and other development tools for embedded systems.
  • Experience with unit testing, integration testing, and system-level validation methodologies.
  • Excellent analytical and debugging skills to identify and troubleshoot complex firmware issues.
  • Ability to effectively communicate technical concepts to both technical and non-technical stakeholders.

Wage Range: $68,731 - $98,187

Benefits of Employment

In addition to excellent career growth opportunities, Federal Signal Corporation offers a wide array of benefits including: annual bonus potential, insurance (life, medical, dental, vision), paid holidays, paid vacation, 401(k) with matching contributions and tuition reimbursement. We provide our employees with a smoke-free, drug-free workplace.

About Us

Federal Signal in University Park is a leading manufacturer and supplier of comprehensive systems and products used to protect people and property. Our products and integrated solutions include systems for campus and community alerting, emergency vehicles, first responder interoperable communications, industrial communications, and command and municipal networked security. Specific products include: lightbars and sirens, public warning sirens and public safety software.

Federal Signal Corporation (NYSE: FSS) builds and delivers equipment of unmatched quality that moves material, cleans infrastructure, and protects the communities where we work and live. Founded in 1901, Federal Signal is a leading global designer and manufacturer of products and total solutions that serve municipal, governmental, industrial and commercial customers. Headquartered in Downers Grove, IL, with manufacturing facilities worldwide, the Company operates two groups: Environmental Solutions and Safety and Security Systems. For more information on Federal Signal, visit: www.federalsignal.com

The Company is an equal opportunity employer. Qualified applicants will not be discriminated against on the basis of, and will receive consideration for employment without regard to, race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability, genetic information, status as a protected veteran, or any other protected category, characteristic, or trait under applicable law. If you require reasonable accommodation in the application process, contact Human Resources at HR@federalsignal.com. All other applications must be submitted online.


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