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Embedded Software Engineer Jobs in Rockford, IL (NOW HIRING)

With hundreds of engineers in-house, the company designs, manufactures, integrates, and installs a ... Knowledge of real-time control software architectures embedded RTOS application design using ...

Company Description Tech Tammina LLC Design, analysis, programming, debugging, and modification of software for composite applications Investigate application engineering tasks and prepare design ...

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Embedded Software Engineer information

See Rockford, IL salary details

$70.1K

$153.5K

$174.1K

How much do embedded software engineer jobs pay per year?

As of May 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for embedded software engineer in Rockford, IL is $153,509.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $131,600.00 and $173,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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.

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 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 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 are the most commonly searched types of Embedded Software Engineer jobs in Rockford, IL? The most popular types of Embedded Software Engineer jobs in Rockford, IL are:
What cities near Rockford, IL are hiring for Embedded Software Engineer jobs? Cities near Rockford, IL with the most Embedded Software Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Embedded Software Engineer job openings in Rockford, IL as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 42% Full Time, 29% Part Time, and 29% Contract. Highlights an 71% In-person, and 29% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $153,509 per year, or $73.8 per hour.
Principal Engineer, Software Engineering

Principal Engineer, Software Engineering

Collins Aerospace

Rockford, IL • On-site

$96.37K - $196K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 10 days ago


Collins Aerospace rating

8.5

Company rating: 8.5 out of 10

Based on 243 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

22nd of 59 rated aerospace companies


Job description

Date Posted:

2026-04-17

Country:

United States of America

Location:

US-IL-ROCKFORD-BB ~ 4747 Harrison Ave ~ BUTLER BLDG

Position Role Type:

Unspecified

U.S. Citizen, U.S. Person, or Immigration Status Requirements:

Security Clearance Type:

Security Clearance Status:

Not Required

Hamilton Sundstrand Corporation d/b/a Collins Aerospace has an opening for a Principal Engineer, Software Engineering in Rockford, IL.  This is a hybrid position; must work 3 days per week in the Rockford, IL office and can work remotely within the U.S. 2 days per week.

Joining Collins Aerospace isn’t just about finding a job; it’s about embarking on a journey to redefine the future of aerospace technology.

What YOU will do

  • Develop, coordinate and conduct complex tests and debug control and diagnostic systems that contain logical and mathematical solutions.
  • Conduct multidisciplinary research and collaborate with other project team members in the planning, design, development and utilization of electronic data processing systems for product and commercial software to ensure smooth operations on software engineering activities.
  • Design and implement build procedures that are used to support hardware and software product development and function.
  • Recommend changes in the selection and application of software production components to improve and develop software engineering activities.
  • Determine end-user needs by analyzing system capabilities to resolve problems on program intent, output requirements and input data acquisition.

Qualifications You Must Have

  • Must possess at least a bachelor’s degree or its equivalent in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or related field and 8 years of progressive experience as a Software Engineer or related role in the Aerospace, Defense, Automotive or Medical industries. In the alternative, at least a master’s degree or its equivalent in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or related field and 5 years of experience as a Software Engineer or related role in the Aerospace, Defense, Automotive or Medical industries would be acceptable.
  • Must possess at least 5 years of experience with embedded C programing.
  • Must possess at least 3 years of experience with leading medium to large software engineering teams.
  • Must possess at least 3 years of experience with industry standards for the full software engineering lifecycle of safety critical systems such as DO-178C.
  • Must possess at least 3 years of experience with software development for Generator or Bus Power Control Units.
  • Non-US Person - Must be authorized to work in the U.S. without the company’s immigration sponsorship now or in the future. The company will not offer immigration sponsorship for this position. The company will not seek an export authorization for this role. 

Learn More & Apply Now!

Power & Controls: We make modern flight possible for millions of travelers and our military every second.  Our major product lines are on-board virtually every aircraft flying. Be it keeping passengers safe with our emergency power generation systems or creating a positive in flight experience through reliable cabin pressure controls and quieter engines, Power & Controls focuses on delivering a best-in-class experience to our customers. We hire the top people in the industry. Their ideas drive our performance, and their integrity keeps our customers happy. Join us as we take flight!

Hybrid: Employees who are working in Hybrid roles will work regularly both onsite and  offsite. Ratio of time working onsite will be determined in partnership with your leader. 

The salary range is $96,366.00 to $196,000.00 USD per year. The salary range provided is a good faith estimate representative of all experience levels. RTX considers several factors when extending an offer, including but not limited to, the role, function and associated responsibilities, a candidate’s work experience, location, education/training, and key skills.

As part of our commitment to maintaining a secure hiring process, candidates may be asked to attend select steps of the interview process in-person at one of our office locations, regardless of whether the role is designated as on-site, hybrid or remote.

Hired applicants may be eligible for benefits, including but not limited to, medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short-term disability, long-term disability, 401(k) match, flexible spending accounts, flexible work schedules, employee assistance program, Employee Scholar Program, parental leave, paid time off, and holidays. Specific benefits are dependent upon the specific business unit as well as whether or not the position is covered by a collective-bargaining agreement.Hired applicants may be eligible for annual short-term and/or long-term incentive compensation programs depending on the level of the position and whether or not it is covered by a collective-bargaining agreement. Payments under these annual programs are not guaranteed and are dependent upon a variety of factors including, but not limited to, individual performance, business unit performance, and/or the company’s performance.This role is a U.S.-based role. If the successful candidate resides in a U.S. territory, the appropriate pay structure and benefits will apply.RTX anticipates the application window closing approximately 40 days from the date the notice was posted. However, factors such as candidate flow and business necessity may require RTX to shorten or extend the application window.

RTX is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability or veteran status, or any other applicable state or federal protected class. RTX provides affirmative action in employment for qualified Individuals with a Disability and Protected Veterans in compliance with Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act and the Vietnam Era Veterans’ Readjustment Assistance Act.

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About Collins Aerospace

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Collins Aerospace, a Raytheon Technologies company, is a leader in technologically advanced and intelligent solutions for the global aerospace and defense industry. Collins Aerospace has the capabilities, comprehensive portfolio and expertise to solve customers' toughest challenges and to meet the demands of a rapidly evolving global market.

Industry

Aviation

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Charlotte, NC, US

Year founded

2018