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Embedded Systems Developer Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

As a Senior Embedded Software Development Engineer, you will work in the Product Development ... Engage in unit, integration and testing of software components and systems. * Other duties as ...

Embedded Software Engineer

Wheeling, IL · On-site

$127K - $190K/yr

Design, develop, and maintain embedded drivers and firmware with a strong focus on C programming for embedded systems. * Develop and support real-time embedded applications using RTOS, ensuring ...

Design, develop, and maintain embedded drivers and firmware with a strong focus on C programming for embedded systems. * Develop and support real-time embedded applications using RTOS, ensuring ...

Sr Embedded Engineer

Aurora, IL · Hybrid

$99K - $135K/yr

We are seeking a highly skilled and experienced Senior Embedded Firmware Engineer to lead the ... Collaborate with hardware engineers to define system requirements and specifications for sensor ...

Sr Embedded Engineer

Aurora, IL · On-site

$99K - $135K/yr

We are seeking a highly skilled and experienced Senior Embedded Firmware Engineer to lead the ... Collaborate with hardware engineers to define system requirements and specifications for sensor ...

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Embedded Systems Developer information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$144.2K

$220.5K

$322.4K

How much do embedded systems developer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for embedded systems developer in Chicago, IL is $220,451.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $161,200.00 and $297,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What engineers make $500,000?

Highly experienced engineers in specialized fields such as software engineering, data science, or executive roles can earn $500,000 or more annually. These positions often require advanced skills, certifications, and leadership responsibilities, typically found in senior or executive-level roles within technology companies. Compensation at this level may include base salary, bonuses, and stock options.

What do embedded systems developers do?

Embedded systems developers design, develop, and test software for embedded devices such as microcontrollers and processors used in appliances, vehicles, medical equipment, and industrial machines. They work with hardware specifications, programming languages like C or C++, and tools such as debuggers and oscilloscopes to ensure the software functions reliably within hardware constraints.

Is C or C++ better for embedded systems?

Embedded systems developers often choose C for its simplicity, low-level hardware access, and minimal runtime, making it suitable for resource-constrained environments. C++ offers features like object-oriented programming and abstractions that can improve code organization and reusability but may introduce additional complexity and overhead, which is a consideration in embedded development. The choice depends on project requirements, hardware constraints, and developer expertise.

What are Embedded Systems Developers?

Embedded Systems Developers are engineers who design, develop, and maintain software that runs on embedded devices—specialized computing systems that perform dedicated functions within larger systems. These professionals work with hardware and software integration, programming microcontrollers or microprocessors in languages like C or C++. Their work is crucial in industries such as automotive, consumer electronics, medical devices, and industrial automation, where reliable, real-time processing is essential. Embedded Systems Developers often collaborate closely with hardware engineers to ensure that software efficiently interfaces with physical components.

What are some common challenges faced by Embedded Systems Developers when working on cross-functional teams?

Embedded Systems Developers often collaborate closely with hardware engineers, software teams, and product managers. A common challenge is ensuring seamless integration between hardware and software components, as hardware limitations can impact software functionality and vice versa. Effective communication and proactive problem-solving are key, as requirements may change based on feedback from different stakeholders. Staying adaptable and maintaining clear documentation help ensure that everyone on the team is aligned throughout the development cycle.

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

To thrive as an Embedded Systems Developer, you need strong proficiency in C/C++ programming, microcontroller architectures, and a solid background in electrical or computer engineering. Familiarity with real-time operating systems (RTOS), debugging tools like JTAG, and version control systems such as Git is typically required, along with relevant certifications like ARM Accredited Engineer. Problem-solving, attention to detail, and effective communication are essential soft skills for collaborating with cross-functional teams and ensuring reliable system performance. These abilities enable developers to create efficient, robust embedded solutions that meet stringent technical and safety requirements.

Will AI replace embedded programmers?

Embedded systems developers design and program hardware-specific software for devices like IoT gadgets, automotive systems, and medical equipment. While AI can automate certain coding tasks and optimize processes, it is unlikely to fully replace embedded programmers due to the need for specialized knowledge of hardware constraints, real-time operation, and safety-critical requirements. Instead, AI tools are expected to augment their work, making development more efficient.

What is the difference between Embedded Systems Developer vs Firmware Engineer?

AspectEmbedded Systems DeveloperFirmware Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's in Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or related fieldsBachelor's or higher in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or related fields
Work EnvironmentDesigning and developing embedded software for hardware devicesWriting low-level firmware for microcontrollers and hardware components
Industry UsageAutomotive, consumer electronics, industrial machinesConsumer electronics, IoT devices, embedded hardware products

Embedded Systems Developers and Firmware Engineers often share similar educational backgrounds and work in embedded hardware industries. However, Embedded Systems Developers focus on designing software for embedded systems, while Firmware Engineers specialize in writing low-level firmware directly controlling hardware components.

Infographic showing various Embedded Systems Developer job openings in Chicago, IL as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 31% Full Time, 68% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $220,451 per year, or $106 per hour.
Embedded Engineers

$128K - $168K/yr

Other

Posted 20 days ago


Job description

Job Description
Qualifications:
         Bachelor's Degree or higher in Computer Science or Computer Engineering
         7+ years' experience in professional software engineering having shipped several consumer grade products
         5+  years of experience in C++ preferably with some exposure to embedded systems like QNX or Embedded Linux.
         Experience with coding and debugging multi-threaded distributed system in the embedded space.
         Exposure to Genevi interface standards is a plus
         Comfortable with STL templates and libraries such as BOOST etc.
         Familiarity of one or more Navigation system domains: ADAS ( Driver Assistance),  Route Calculation, Route Guidance, Destination Selection, Positioning ( Dead reckoning and Map matching) ;
         A good team player, must have worked as part of medium or large size software development team
         Familiar with Agile development methodologies and test driven development
Job Responsibilities:
        Leverage existing codebase but also seek ways to improve the navigation engine performance and capabilities. We believe that the driver should enjoy the journey as much as the destination and the engine is a key part of that experience.
          Create documentation and examples that help educate other engineers and customer support on the internals of the navigation engine
         As part of a matrix organization work alongside with engineers, designers, testers and product managers in multiple locations as needed to help integrate and productize the solution.
Need consultants to have worked on one of the below combinations (MUST) along with C++, Embedded Systems (QNX or Embedded Linux):
-          Need three Senior SW Engineers with embedded C++ experience - preferable with domain knowledge in ADAS and ADAS protocols.
-          This work will be involving alternative ADAS path prediction concepts and CAN bus encoding/decoding
Category 1:
-          Need one Senior SW Engineer with embedded C++ experience - preferable with domain knowledge in navigation dead reckoning and map matching and/or EGO motion
-          This work will be involving lane level positioning algorithms, sensor fusion and 3D dead reckoning and 3D map matching
Category 2:
-          Need two Senior SW Engineers with embedded C++ experience - preferable with domain knowledge in navigation route calculation and route guidance
-          This work will be involving creating natural language guidance algorithms (e.g. "turn left at McDonalds")  based on the NLG Data model.

 Skills Set : Embedded, Infotainment, automobile, Navigation, QNX, ADAS, C++ and CAN.
Similar Job Titles: Embedded SW Engineers, Embedded Software Engineers, Infotainment Engineer, Embedded Navigation Engineer, Navigation Engineer, Embedded Linux Engineer, Embedded Infotainment Engineer, Software Engineer ( Infotainment), Software Engineer (Embedded).

Qualifications
Need three Senior SW Engineers with embedded C++ experience - preferable with domain knowledge in ADAS and ADAS protocols


Additional Information

Thanks and Regards

John Lennon
630-315-9511


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About Agile Enterprise Solutions

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AgileES offers a wide gamut of staffing solutions that are best aligned with requirements of the clients to bring super-colossal benefits for the clients At AgileES, every project whether it is small or big, is looked upon with equal proportion of close attention and commitment. For us, all clients are incomparably invaluable. We listen to our clients and come up with the customized hiring solutions to fulfill all recruitment needs. We are with you every step of the way… the way towards peerless success in business by helping you hire the right people with right business acumen, acuity, intelligence and ingenuity.

Industry

It services

Company size

51 - 200 Employees

Headquarters location

Frisco, TX, US

Year founded

2005

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