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Embedded Software Architect Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Senior Embedded Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$127K - $167K/yr

A growing consumer technology company is seeking a Senior Embedded Software Engineer to join its ... Linux systems, firmware architecture, hardware integration, and connected device security.

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Embedded Software Architect information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$136.1K

$178.9K

How much do embedded software architect jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for embedded software architect in Chicago, IL is $176,905.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $178,400.00 and $178,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an embedded software architect?

An Embedded Software Architect is a specialized engineer responsible for designing the overall structure and high-level functionality of software used in embedded systems. These professionals define the architecture, interfaces, and protocols necessary for embedded applications to interact with hardware and other software components. They work closely with hardware engineers and development teams to ensure that the software meets performance, reliability, and scalability requirements. Embedded Software Architects play a critical role in industries such as automotive, consumer electronics, and industrial automation, where reliable and efficient embedded systems are essential.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an embedded software architect?

To thrive as an Embedded Software Architect, you need deep expertise in embedded systems design, programming languages such as C/C++, and a strong understanding of real-time operating systems, often supported by a degree in computer science or electrical engineering. Familiarity with tools like UML for modeling, version control systems (e.g., Git), and hardware-software integration platforms is essential, and certifications like Certified Software Architect (CSA) can be advantageous. Strong problem-solving, leadership, and communication skills help you collaborate with cross-functional teams and translate complex requirements into scalable architectures. These abilities ensure robust, efficient, and reliable embedded solutions that meet both technical and business objectives.

How does an embedded software architect typically collaborate with hardware engineers and other stakeholders during a project?

An Embedded Software Architect works closely with hardware engineers to ensure that software design aligns seamlessly with hardware capabilities and constraints. Regular meetings and design reviews are common, where both teams discuss interface requirements, performance targets, and potential integration challenges. Additionally, the architect often collaborates with project managers, quality assurance teams, and sometimes clients, to clarify requirements and ensure the final product meets all specifications. Effective communication and cross-disciplinary teamwork are key to successfully delivering robust embedded systems.
What are popular job titles related to Embedded Software Architect jobs in Chicago, IL? For Embedded Software Architect jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Embedded Software Architect job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 86% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $176,905 per year, or $85.1 per hour.

Staff Engineer Embedded Software

Northrop Grumman Corporation

Rolling Meadows, IL • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Life, PTO

Re-posted 11 days ago


Northrop Grumman rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 362 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

88th of 538 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 aStaff 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:

  • Lead software architecture strategy, cost account management, and project planning 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.
  • Accountable for technical task delegation across approximately six embedded software engineers to execute significant Non-Recurring Engineering (NRE) work required to establish a new production line.
  • 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.

The ideal candidate will possess:

  • The ability to break down complex projects into executable tasks and comprehensively estimate task complexity, risks, and hours to quantify level of effort.
  • Familiarity with reading schematics and interpreting electrical one-lines.
  • The ability to communicate technical project status, challenges, and risks to management and perform proactive risk management

Basic Qualifications for the Staff Embedded Software Engineer (Advanced EO)

  • Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Electrical and/or Computer Engineering or a related STEM field with a minimum of 12 years of relevant work experience; OR a Master's degree in equivalent fields with a minimum of 10 years of relevant work experience.
  • Experience designing high-level structure of complex software systems.
  • Experience using C#
  • Experience using Agile practices and performing Earned Value.
  • Experience leading software development teams including scope identification, task designation, decision making, and project status meetings.
  • Ability to obtain and maintain a Secret Clearance with additional customer specified (SAP) clearance prior to start.
  • US Citizenship required.

Preferred Qualifications for the Staff Embedded Software Engineer (Advanced EO)

  • 12 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 which encourages yourgrowth and supports the mutual success of our people and our company. Northrop Grumman benefits give you theflexibility 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 includingEducation Assistance, Training and Development, 9/80 Work Schedule (where available), and much more!

#MPR

Primary Level Salary Range: $169,000.00 - $253,600.00The 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