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Embedded Software Engineer Jobs in Champaign, IL

twenty80.io

Software Engineering Manager

Champaign, IL

$130K - $160K/yr

The ideal candidate brings deep embedded software development expertise, strong C++ programming skills, and a proven ability to mentor teams while contributing directly to technical design and ...

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PAR Technology

Software Engineer

Champaign, IL · On-site

$80K - $110K/yr

As a Software Engineer at PAR, you will join the team responsible for Bridg, our Identity ... You'll be paired with a dedicated mentor and embedded in a collaborative delivery team-never ...

Droisys

Software Engineer

Champaign, IL · On-site

Software Engineer Location : Champaign, IL or Midland, MI depending upon candidate preference Duration : Multi Year Project Interview Mode : Phone and Skype Visa : Green Card and US Citizens only.

Aviatrix

Senior MTS - Software Development

Champaign, IL

$122K - $161K/yr

Senior MTS - Software Development Engineer The Observability team delivers performant, resilient, and scalable solutions that power our observability platform. This infrastructure spans the full data ...

Aviatrix

Senior MTS - Software Development

Champaign, IL · On-site

$122K - $161K/yr

Senior MTS - Software Development Engineer The Observability team delivers performant, resilient, and scalable solutions that power our observability platform. This infrastructure spans the full data ...

Varsity Tutors

C++ Tutor

Champaign, IL · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

... programming to operating systems, embedded systems, and high-performance computing applications ... level software development. * Effective Teaching Methods: Ability to identify concepts students ...

All JobsEmbedded Software Engineer JobsEmbedded Software Engineer Jobs in Champaign, IL

Embedded Software Engineer information

See Champaign, IL salary details

$70.1K

$153.6K

$174.3K

How much do embedded software engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for embedded software engineer in Champaign, IL is $153,608.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $131,700.00 and $173,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

AspectEmbedded Software EngineerFirmware Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's in Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or related fields; often requires knowledge of C/C++Similar credentials; strong C/C++ skills, understanding of hardware
Work EnvironmentDevelops software for embedded systems in various industries like automotive, IoT, consumer electronicsFocuses on low-level hardware interaction, often working closely with hardware teams
Industry UsageCommon in automotive, medical devices, consumer electronics, industrial automationPrimarily in consumer electronics, IoT devices, and hardware startups

Embedded Software Engineers design and develop software for embedded systems, focusing on system-level programming. Firmware Engineers write low-level code that directly interacts with hardware components. While both roles require similar skills and work environments, Embedded Software Engineers often work on a broader range of software, whereas Firmware Engineers focus on hardware-specific code. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

What Is an Embedded Software Engineer?

Embedded software is installed on devices that operate like personal computers. Examples of embedded software can be found in geographic positioning systems, or GPS devices, smart watches, and calculators. Embedded software engineers perform a range of embedded software engineering functions, including running system software updates and designing software for embedded systems. Embedded software engineers also advise on product development, approve new product designs, and optimize the product lifecycle.

Will AI replace embedded system engineers?

Embedded software engineers design and develop software for embedded systems, and while AI tools can assist with coding and testing, they are unlikely to fully replace the need for human expertise in understanding hardware constraints, system integration, and troubleshooting. AI can enhance productivity but requires skilled engineers to oversee, interpret, and implement solutions effectively.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Embedded Software Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Embedded Software Engineer, you need a solid background in computer science or electrical engineering, strong programming skills in C/C++, and experience with embedded systems design. Familiarity with real-time operating systems (RTOS), microcontroller architectures, debugging tools, and version control systems like Git is typically required. Excellent problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication skills set top engineers apart. These competencies are crucial for building reliable, efficient, and safe embedded solutions that meet industry standards.

What are Embedded Software Engineers?

Embedded Software Engineers are professionals who design, develop, and maintain software that runs on embedded systems—specialized computing devices that are part of larger systems, such as cars, medical devices, industrial machines, and consumer electronics. Their work involves programming in languages like C or C++ to interact closely with hardware components, ensuring optimal performance, reliability, and safety. Embedded Software Engineers work closely with hardware engineers to integrate and test software with physical devices, often working within real-time and resource-constrained environments. Their expertise is crucial in developing the 'brains' of many devices we use every day.

What do embedded software engineers do?

Embedded software engineers develop, test, and maintain software that runs on hardware devices such as microcontrollers, sensors, and embedded systems. They write code primarily in C or C++, often using specialized tools and real-time operating systems to ensure efficient and reliable device performance.

How does an Embedded Software Engineer typically collaborate with hardware engineers during product development?

Embedded Software Engineers work closely with hardware engineers throughout the product development lifecycle. Collaboration often involves joint design reviews, debugging sessions, and integration testing to ensure software and hardware function seamlessly together. Effective communication is crucial, as changes in hardware can impact software functionality and vice versa. This cross-disciplinary teamwork helps resolve technical issues quickly and ensures the end product meets performance and reliability standards.

What engineer makes $500,000 a year?

Highly experienced senior engineers in specialized fields such as software, aerospace, or petroleum engineering can earn $500,000 or more annually, often through a combination of base salary, bonuses, and stock options. These roles typically require advanced skills, certifications, and extensive industry experience.

Can I make 200k a year as a software engineer?

Embedded Software Engineers can potentially earn $200,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, specialized skills in areas like real-time systems or safety-critical applications, and working in high-paying industries such as aerospace or automotive. Achieving this salary often requires advanced certifications, a strong track record, and positions in regions with higher compensation levels. Entry-level or general roles typically offer lower salaries, but senior engineers with expertise in embedded systems can reach or exceed this income level.
More about Embedded Software Engineer jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Embedded Software Engineer jobs in Champaign, IL? The most popular types of Embedded Software Engineer jobs in Champaign, IL are:
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What job categories do people searching Embedded Software Engineer jobs in Champaign, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Embedded Software Engineer jobs in Champaign, IL are:
What cities near Champaign, IL are hiring for Embedded Software Engineer jobs? Cities near Champaign, IL with the most Embedded Software Engineer job openings:
Embedded Software Engineer jobs near you

Software Engineering Manager

twenty80.io

Champaign, IL

$130K - $160K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 15 days ago

Be an early applicant

Job description

Role Summary

A growing technology organization is seeking a Software Engineering Manager – Embedded Systems to lead a team of software engineers responsible for the design, development, and delivery of embedded software solutions that power high-visibility products used by customers around the world.

This role combines technical leadership with hands-on engineering involvement, providing the opportunity to influence product architecture, guide software strategy, and drive projects from concept through commercialization. The position partners closely with Engineering, Operations, Product Management, Sales, and Marketing to ensure innovative, scalable, and high-quality solutions are delivered to market.

The ideal candidate brings deep embedded software development expertise, strong C++ programming skills, and a proven ability to mentor teams while contributing directly to technical design and development activities.

Key ResponsibilitiesTechnical Leadership & Team Management
  • Lead, mentor, and develop a team of embedded software engineers, fostering a collaborative and high-performing engineering culture.
  • Provide technical guidance, architectural oversight, and hands-on support throughout the software development lifecycle.
  • Manage engineering priorities, project timelines, and resource allocation across multiple concurrent initiatives.
  • Promote engineering best practices, code quality standards, and continuous improvement initiatives.
Software Design & Development
  • Contribute directly to the design, development, and maintenance of embedded software applications and platforms.
  • Drive technical decision-making related to software architecture, platform evolution, and future technology direction.
  • Lead full lifecycle software development activities, including requirements analysis, design, implementation, testing, deployment, and ongoing support.
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure software solutions align with business objectives and product roadmaps.
Product Development & Innovation
  • Support the development and commercialization of next-generation products and proprietary software platforms.
  • Evaluate and recommend future hardware and software technologies to enhance product capabilities and maintain competitive advantage.
  • Partner with Product Management, Sales, Marketing, and Operations to translate business needs into scalable technical solutions.
  • Drive innovation through the adoption of modern development practices and emerging technologies.
Development Operations & Process Improvement
  • Support and enhance Agile software development processes and engineering workflows.
  • Oversee source control, build automation, and deployment practices utilizing modern development tools and CI/CD methodologies.
  • Identify opportunities to improve software quality, development efficiency, and engineering scalability.
  • Manage technical risks, dependencies, and issue resolution across multiple projects.
Stakeholder Collaboration
  • Communicate project status, technical risks, and delivery milestones to leadership and key stakeholders.
  • Foster strong collaboration across engineering and business functions to ensure successful product delivery.
  • Serve as a technical leader and trusted advisor, helping shape the long-term software strategy for the organization.
Required Qualifications
  • Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related technical field; Master’s degree preferred.
  • 10+ years of embedded software development experience.
  • Strong hands-on expertise with C++ development.
  • Experience designing and developing software for Linux and/or Windows embedded environments.
  • Demonstrated leadership experience through formal management, technical leadership, or project leadership responsibilities.
  • Proven experience with full software development lifecycle methodologies, from concept through product release.
  • Strong problem-solving, analytical, and technical decision-making skills.
  • Excellent communication, collaboration, and stakeholder management abilities.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience leading and mentoring software engineering teams.
  • Familiarity with Agile software development methodologies and cross-functional product development environments.
  • Hands-on experience with development and collaboration tools including Git, Jenkins, and Jira.
  • Experience influencing software architecture and long-term platform strategy.
  • Background working with proprietary software products or technology-driven organizations.
  • Experience collaborating with hardware engineering teams on integrated product development initiatives.
Technical Environment
  • Embedded Software Development
  • C++
  • Linux and Windows Embedded Systems
  • Git
  • Jenkins
  • Jira
  • Agile Development Methodologies
  • Full Software Development Lifecycle (SDLC)
  • Cross-Functional Product Development
Compensation & Work Model

Employment Type: Direct-hire, full-time
Work Model: Onsite position
Location: Greater Champaign, Illinois area (approximately two hours south of Chicago)
Relocation: Relocation assistance available for qualified candidates currently residing in the United States
Compensation: Competitive base salary ranging from $130,000 – $160,000, plus comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, vision, life insurance, disability coverage, and 401(k).

This is an outstanding opportunity for a technically strong engineering leader who enjoys building teams, developing innovative products, and playing an influential role in the growth and long-term technology direction of a collaborative and forward-thinking organization.