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Embedded Hardware Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Senior Embedded Engineer

Chicago, IL

$127K - $167K/yr

A growing consumer technology company is seeking a Senior Embedded Software Engineer to join its ... This organization develops innovative connected hardware products that combine sensors, machine ...

As a Senior Embedded Software Development Engineer, you will work in the Product Development ... Development can consist of wireless protocols. hardware drivers, embedded software applications ...

As a Senior Embedded Software Development Engineer, you will work in the Product Development ... Development can consist of wireless protocols. hardware drivers, embedded software applications ...

Showing results 41-60

Embedded Hardware Engineer information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$73.7K

$134.1K

$187.6K

How much do embedded hardware engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for embedded hardware engineer in Chicago, IL is $134,073.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $103,600.00 and $161,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an embedded hardware engineer do?

An Embedded Hardware Engineer designs, develops, and tests the physical components of embedded systems, such as microcontrollers, sensors, and circuit boards. They work closely with software engineers to ensure the hardware and software work seamlessly together within products like medical devices, automotive systems, and consumer electronics. Their responsibilities include schematic design, PCB layout, prototyping, debugging, and validating hardware performance. Embedded Hardware Engineers often collaborate across multidisciplinary teams to bring innovative electronic products from concept to production.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an embedded hardware engineer?

To thrive as an Embedded Hardware Engineer, you need a solid background in electronics, circuit design, and microcontroller architecture, typically supported by a degree in electrical or computer engineering. Familiarity with tools such as PCB design software (e.g., Altium Designer), oscilloscopes, and debugging systems, as well as knowledge of relevant industry standards, is essential. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective teamwork set exceptional engineers apart in this role. These skills and qualifications ensure the reliable design, testing, and integration of hardware systems critical to product performance and innovation.

What are some common challenges faced by embedded hardware engineers during product development?

Embedded Hardware Engineers often encounter challenges such as managing tight deadlines while ensuring reliable hardware performance and compatibility with embedded software. Balancing power consumption, size constraints, and cost-effectiveness in design can also be demanding. Additionally, troubleshooting hardware-software integration issues and staying updated with rapidly evolving technology standards are typical hurdles. Collaboration with cross-functional teams, such as firmware developers and mechanical engineers, is crucial to address these challenges effectively.

What is the difference between Embedded Hardware Engineer vs Firmware Engineer?

AspectEmbedded Hardware EngineerFirmware Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or related fieldsBachelor's in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or related fields
Work EnvironmentDesigning and testing hardware components, working in labs or manufacturing settingsDeveloping and debugging embedded software, often in software development labs
Industry UsageElectronics, consumer devices, automotive, aerospaceConsumer electronics, IoT devices, embedded systems
Common Search/ComparisonEmbedded Hardware Engineer vs Firmware Engineer

Embedded Hardware Engineers focus on designing and testing physical electronic components, while Firmware Engineers develop the software that runs on these hardware devices. Both roles often collaborate but require different skill sets and focus areas within embedded systems development.

What job categories do people searching Embedded Hardware Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Embedded Hardware Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL are:

Infographic showing various Embedded Hardware Engineer job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $134,073 per year, or $64.5 per hour.

$127K - $167K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, PTO

Posted 26 days ago


Job description

A growing consumer technology company is seeking a Senior Embedded Software Engineer to join its full-time engineering team in San Francisco, CA. This organization develops innovative connected hardware products that combine sensors, machine learning, mobile applications, and embedded systems to help users improve performance and recovery. The environment is highly technical and focused on Embedded Linux development, firmware engineering, platform security, and IoT connectivity.
This is an opportunity to own critical components of an advanced embedded platform used by customers globally. The ideal candidate enjoys solving complex problems around secure boot, Linux systems, firmware architecture, hardware integration, and connected device security. Engineers on this team work with a high degree of autonomy, partner closely with international manufacturing teams, and have a direct impact on product quality and customer experience.
Required Skills & Experience
  • 5+ years of embedded software or firmware development experience
  • Strong C and/or C++ programming skills
  • Deep experience with Embedded Linux environments
  • Hands-on experience with Yocto, Bitbake, and system
  • Linux kernel development experience
  • Experience working on IoT or connected hardware products
  • Knowledge of software security principles and secure development practices
  • Ability to support manufacturing and deployment activities as needed
Desired Skills & Experience
  • Secure boot implementation experience
  • Key management and provisioning expertise
  • Anti-rollback and chain-of-trust experience
  • OP-TEE or Trusted Execution Environment experience
  • Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, or other wireless protocol experience
  • Experience optimizing performance in resource-constrained systems
  • Strong debugging and problem-solving abilities
What You Will Be Doing
Tech Breakdown
  • 75% Embedded Linux / Firmware Development
  • 15% Platform Security Engineering
  • 10% Wireless Communication & Hardware Integration
Daily Responsibilities
  • 85% Hands-On Development
  • 5% Leadership / Technical Guidance
  • 10% Cross-Functional Collaboration

The Offer
  • Bonus eligible
You will receive the following benefits:
  • Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
  • Vacation Time
  • Stock Options

Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the US on a full-time basis now and in the future.
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