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Embedded Systems Engineer Jobs in Champaign, IL (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

C++ Tutor

Champaign, IL · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Emphasizes understanding memory management principles and connects C++ programming to operating systems, embedded systems, and high-performance computing applications. * Curriculum Awareness ...

Electronics Tutor

Champaign, IL · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

... engineering coursework and electronics industry careers. * Conceptual Teaching & Problem-Solving ... systems, and embedded computing. * Curriculum Awareness & Adaptive Instruction: Familiar with ...

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Embedded Systems Engineer information

See Champaign, IL salary details

$62.6K

$137.5K

$192.3K

How much do embedded systems engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for embedded systems engineer in Champaign, IL is $137,474.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $111,700.00 and $163,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What Do Embedded Systems Engineers Do?

An embedded systems engineer creates the software to control electronics or machines that are different from regular computers. This software needs to run on the specific hardware it controls. Their duties also include troubleshooting and testing. Essential skills include problem-solving, critical thinking, and communication. Work is typically in an office environment with full-time business hours. Educational qualifications include a bachelor’s or master’s degree in embedded systems engineering or a related field.

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

To thrive as an Embedded Systems Engineer, you need strong proficiency in C/C++ programming, embedded hardware knowledge, and a degree in electrical engineering, computer engineering, or a related field. Familiarity with real-time operating systems (RTOS), microcontroller development platforms, and debugging tools like oscilloscopes and logic analyzers is typically required. Problem-solving, attention to detail, and effective teamwork are critical soft skills for success in this role. These skills and qualities are essential to design reliable embedded solutions that meet strict performance, safety, and efficiency requirements.

Will AI replace embedded developers?

Embedded Systems Engineers design and develop software for hardware devices, and while AI can automate certain coding tasks and optimize processes, it is unlikely to fully replace the need for human expertise in understanding hardware constraints, system integration, and troubleshooting. AI tools can assist developers but require skilled engineers to interpret and implement solutions effectively.

What do you do as an embedded systems engineer?

An embedded systems engineer designs, develops, and tests hardware and software for embedded devices such as microcontrollers and processors. They work on integrating software with hardware components, often using programming languages like C or C++, and may use tools like oscilloscopes and debuggers. This role typically requires knowledge of real-time operating systems and embedded development environments.

What engineer makes $500,000 a year?

Highly experienced senior engineers in specialized fields such as software engineering, data science, or executive roles can earn $500,000 or more annually, especially in top tech companies or with significant bonuses and stock options. These roles often require advanced skills, certifications, and years of experience.

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

AspectEmbedded Systems EngineerFirmware Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or related fields; certifications like Certified Embedded Systems EngineerBachelor's in Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering; certifications like Certified Firmware Engineer
Work EnvironmentDesigning and developing embedded hardware/software for devices like automotive, medical, consumer electronicsWriting low-level code to optimize firmware for microcontrollers and embedded devices
Industry UsageUsed across automotive, aerospace, consumer electronics, industrial automationPrimarily in consumer electronics, IoT devices, and embedded hardware products

Both roles focus on embedded development but differ in scope. Embedded Systems Engineers work on both hardware and software integration, while Firmware Engineers specialize in writing low-level code for device firmware. Understanding these distinctions helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

What are some common challenges an Embedded Systems Engineer faces when integrating hardware and software components?

Embedded Systems Engineers often encounter challenges when ensuring that hardware and software components work seamlessly together. These can include dealing with limited memory and processing power, timing constraints, and real-time performance requirements. Troubleshooting issues that arise from hardware-software interactions—such as driver compatibility, signal integrity, or power management—requires strong problem-solving skills and close collaboration with hardware designers and software developers. Engineers must frequently debug at both the hardware and code level, making attention to detail and cross-disciplinary communication essential in this role.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior engineers in specialized fields such as software engineering, data engineering, and certain executive or management roles can earn $300,000 or more annually. High compensation often requires extensive experience, advanced skills, and sometimes leadership responsibilities or working in high-demand industries like technology, finance, or aerospace.

What are Embedded Systems Engineers?

Embedded Systems Engineers are professionals who design, develop, and maintain embedded systems—specialized computing systems that perform dedicated functions within larger mechanical or electrical systems. These engineers work with both hardware and software, often programming microcontrollers or microprocessors to control devices like automobiles, medical equipment, consumer electronics, and industrial machines. Their expertise ensures devices are efficient, reliable, and optimized for specific tasks, making embedded systems a crucial part of modern technology.
What are the most commonly searched types of Embedded Systems Engineer jobs in Champaign, IL? The most popular types of Embedded Systems Engineer jobs in Champaign, IL are:
What are popular job titles related to Embedded Systems Engineer jobs in Champaign, IL? For Embedded Systems Engineer jobs in Champaign, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Embedded Systems Engineer jobs in Champaign, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Embedded Systems Engineer jobs in Champaign, IL are:
What cities near Champaign, IL are hiring for Embedded Systems Engineer jobs? Cities near Champaign, IL with the most Embedded Systems Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Embedded Systems Engineer job openings in Champaign, IL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, and 50% Part Time. Highlights an 50% In-person, and 50% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $137,474 per year, or $66.1 per hour.
Software Engineering Manager

Software Engineering Manager

SteveRecruiter, LLC

Champaign, IL • On-site

Other

Posted 24 days ago


Job description

Software Engineering Manager – Embedded Systems

Lead the team - Shape the technology - Build products that matter

Recent embedded C++ software development experience needed


Champaign, IL area – 2 hours south of Chicago, IL | Onsite | Relocation Available

Must Currently be in the US


We're looking for a hands-on Software Engineering Manager to lead a talented embedded software team developing next-generation hardware and software products. This is an opportunity to combine technical leadership with hands-on engineering, influencing architecture, product strategy, and the future direction of an established technology platform.

This is not a role where you'll spend your day in meetings. You'll mentor engineers, drive technical decisions, collaborate across engineering and the business, and remain involved in the design and development process.

What you'll be doing:

  • Hands-on leading and mentoring a team of approximately 10 embedded software engineers and technical professionals focused on embedded system development.
  • Lead development of C++ embedded software running on Linux and Windows platforms.
  • Drive architecture, design, development, testing, and maintenance of embedded software products.
  • Partner with Electrical Engineering to define next-generation hardware platforms.
  • Collaborate with R&D, Operations, Product Management, Sales, and other stakeholders to translate business needs into technical solutions.
  • Champion software engineering best practices including code reviews, unit testing, CI/CD, source control, and Agile development.
  • Support product validation, troubleshooting, and continuous product improvement.

What we're looking for:

  • BS or MS in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related field.
  • 10+ years of embedded software development experience.
  • Current C++ development experience on embedded platforms in Linux and/or Windows embedded environments.
  • Background with Git, Jenkins (or similar CI tools), Jira, automated testing, and Agile development.
  • Experience leading projects or mentoring software engineers; previous people management is a plus.
  • Knowledge of embedded hardware, communication protocols, and object-oriented design.

Nice to have:

  • Qt
  • Python
  • FPGA experience
  • AWS or cloud technologies
  • Image processing or rendering experience

If you've built embedded software products, enjoy leading engineers, and still like being close to the technology, we'd like to hear from you.

Champaign, IL area | $130K–$180K + comprehensive benefits

Interested? Let's talk.