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

... government contracts Additional preferred skills: * Experience with development of wireless ... Embedded OS systems (Android, Linux, RTOS, etc.) * Configuration Management tools (GitHub, Jira ...

Familiar with development in either Windows, Linux and/or Unix-based operating systems * Software ... Experience developing software for embedded systems * Familiarity with multi-threaded applications ...

Familiar with development in either Windows, Linux and/or Unix-based operating systems * Software ... Experience developing software for embedded systems * Familiarity with multi-threaded applications ...

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Embedded Linux Contract information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$86.5K

$138.9K

$195.2K

How much do embedded linux contract jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for embedded linux contract in Chicago, IL is $138,944.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $112,300.00 and $165,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an Embedded Linux Contract job?

An Embedded Linux Contract job is a temporary or project-based position where a professional develops, maintains, or customizes Linux-based systems for embedded devices. These roles typically involve working with hardware interfaces, kernel development, driver programming, and real-time system optimization. Contracts vary in duration and can be with companies developing products like IoT devices, automotive systems, or industrial controllers. Contractors may work independently or as part of a team, often requiring strong expertise in C/C++, Yocto, and Linux internals.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Embedded Linux Contract position, and why are they important?

To excel as an Embedded Linux Contract professional, you need strong proficiency in embedded C/C++, Linux kernel and device driver development, and hardware-software integration, often backed by a degree in Computer Engineering or a related field. Familiarity with development tools such as Git, cross-compilers, Yocto Project, and board support packages is highly valued, as are certifications like LFCE or Linux Foundation Certified Engineer. Excellent problem-solving skills, self-motivation, and clear communication are crucial, especially when working remotely or with cross-functional teams. These skills ensure you can efficiently deliver high-quality, reliable solutions that meet the complex requirements of embedded systems projects.

What are the typical day-to-day responsibilities for someone in an Embedded Linux Contract position?

In an Embedded Linux Contract role, your daily tasks usually involve developing and debugging embedded software, integrating hardware drivers, and ensuring system reliability on targeted hardware platforms. You may also collaborate with hardware engineers to resolve integration challenges and participate in code reviews to maintain high standards. Additionally, responsibilities often include configuring build systems, writing documentation, and working closely with QA teams to address issues. The work is usually project-based, and you can expect a blend of independent problem-solving and teamwork, often in a remote or flexible work environment.

What are the most commonly searched types of Embedded Linux jobs in Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Embedded Linux jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What job categories do people searching Embedded Linux Contract jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Embedded Linux Contract jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Embedded Linux Contract jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Embedded Linux Contract job openings:
Infographic showing various Embedded Linux Contract job openings in Chicago, IL as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, and 20% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $138,944 per year, or $66.8 per hour.
Sr. Principal Software Engineer

Sr. Principal Software Engineer

Northrop Grumman Corporation

Rolling Meadows, IL • On-site

$126K - $174K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, PTO

Posted 28 days ago


Northrop Grumman rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 338 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

106th of 518 rated manufacturers


Job description

RELOCATION ASSISTANCE: Relocation assistance may be available
CLEARANCE TYPE: SAP
TRAVEL: Yes, 10% of the Time
Description
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. 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. Our Engineering and Sciences (E&S) organization pushes the boundaries of innovation, redefines engineering capabilities, and drives advances in various sciences. Our team is chartered with providing the skills, innovative technologies to develop, design, produce and sustain optimized product lines across the sector while providing a decisive advantage to the warfighter. Come be a part of our mission!
As a Sr. Principal Software Engineer at Northrop Grumman you will have a challenging and rewarding opportunity to be a part of our Enterprise-wide digital transformation. Through the use of Model-based Engineering, DevSecOps and Agile practices we continue to evolve how we deliver critical national defense products and capabilities for the warfighter. Our success is grounded in our ability to embrace change, move quickly and continuously drive innovation. The successful candidate will be collaborative, open, transparent, and team-oriented with a focus on team empowerment & shared responsibility, flexibility, continuous learning, and a culture of automation.
Northrop Grumman is looking to add to our talented team of Embedded Software Engineers. Our engineers are self-starters who are part of a team of software professionals developing world-class software to meet our customer's high expectations. The Embedded Software Engineer designs, develops, operates, and maintains software and firmware components and computing systems software to be applied to and integrated with engineering, scientific and manufacturing requirements. The individual shall apply the appropriate standards, processes, procedures, and tools throughout the system development life cycle to support the generation of engineering applications and products within the Targeting Business Unit. This includes interfacing with customers, suppliers, application users and other technical and support personnel. The ideal individual will have experience including the full software development life cycle, which includes requirements, design, coding, testing, and integration.
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.
Basic Qualifications for Sr. Principal Embedded Software Engineer:
  • Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, or similar engineering discipline with a minimum of 8+ years of engineering experience, or 6+ years with a Master's degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering or similar engineering discipline or in lieu of degree, an additional 4 years of experience is required.
  • Object Oriented Programming in C++
  • Familiarity with Software architecture (design patterns, objected oriented design)
  • Familiarity with scripting languages (Python, Bash, Batch, etc)
  • Experience Developing Embedded Software running Linux or VxWorks Operating Systems
  • Familiarity with software development methodologies and frameworks such as Waterfall Methodology and/or Agile
  • Familiarity with various version control systems (Git, Gitlabs, Github, Bitbucket, ClearCase. etc) and Agile software planning tools (Rally, Jira, etc)
  • US Citizenship
  • Ability to obtain and maintain a minimum of a Secret clearance with additional customer specified clearance prior to start.

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Experience with Object Oriented Programming in C++11
  • Knowledge with scripting languages (Python, Bash, Batch, etc)
  • Experience with Software development methodologies and frameworks such as Waterfall Methodology and/or Agile.
  • Experience testing, debugging, and integrating Embedded Software on target hardware.
  • Experience with complex systems of systems that utilize Parallel Processing, Multi-Threading, Distributed Processing, Multi-Core, System-on-Chip, and Secure Processing.
  • Active Secret Clearance
  • Differentiating characteristics include demonstrated leadership and teamwork capability, interpersonal communication skills and activities.

Primary Level Salary Range: $131,100.00 - $196,700.00
The 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