Embedded Linux Contract Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Embedded OS & Driver Engineer

Job Description

A growing embedded systems program is seeking an Embedded OS & Driver Engineer to design, develop, and maintain low-level software for mission-critical platforms. You will work closely with real hardware targets, focusing on RTOS, embedded Linux, C++, and hardware-adjacent engineering to support cutting-edge government-related technology initiatives.

Responsibilities

• Develop and maintain low-level software for VxWorks and Yocto-based Linux platforms.
• Implement, debug, and optimize device drivers, board support package (BSP) components, and operating system–level services.
• Perform embedded hardware bring-up, including board-level testing, system diagnostics, and troubleshooting.
• Use electrical testing equipment such as oscilloscopes, logic analyzers, and JTAG tools to validate and debug embedded systems.
• Collaborate with hardware, systems, and test engineering teams to validate system functionality and resolve integration issues.
• Support integration and verification activities in lab environments using real hardware targets and microcontrollers.
• Contribute to the design and implementation of embedded system architectures that meet mission-critical performance and reliability requirements.
• Document designs, test procedures, and results to ensure traceability and maintainability of embedded software components.

Essential Skills

• Strong proficiency in C++ for low-level and driver development.
• Experience developing in RTOS environments such as VxWorks.
• Experience with embedded Linux environments, including Yocto-based systems.
• Hands-on experience with hardware testing using oscilloscopes, logic analyzers, or JTAG tools.
• 3–15 years of embedded engineering experience.
• Experience working with microcontrollers and embedded systems.
• Ability to perform board-level bring-up, debugging, and system diagnostics.
• Ability to collaborate effectively with cross-functional engineering teams in a mission-critical environment.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Experience with board support packages (BSP) development and customization.
• Familiarity with government program environments and mission-critical systems.
• Experience working with electrical testing equipment in an embedded lab environment.
• Eligibility for, or experience working with, security clearance processes.
• Strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail in low-level software and hardware interactions.

Work Environment

This role is primarily onsite in Rolling Meadows, with hybrid flexibility as appropriate for project needs. You will work in an embedded systems lab environment with access to real hardware targets, microcontrollers, oscilloscopes, logic analyzers, JTAG tools, and other electrical testing equipment. The work focuses on cutting-edge technology for government programs and involves close collaboration with hardware, systems, and test engineering teams in a structured, mission-driven setting.

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Schaumburg, IL.

The pay range for this position is $60.00 - $90.00/hr.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: • Medical, dental & vision • Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital • 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available • Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) • Short and long-term disability • Health Spending Account (HSA) • Transportation benefits • Employee Assistance Program • Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

This is a fully onsite position in Schaumburg,IL.

This position is anticipated to close on Aug 7, 2026.

About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 20,000 consultants and 5,000 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500. We are proud to be an Engineering News-Record (ENR) Top 500 Design Firm for our engineering design services and a ClearlyRated Best of Staffing® winner for both client and talent service.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email actalentaccommodation@actalentservices.com for other accommodation options.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI): We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.