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Embedded Systems Engineer Jobs in Urbana, 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 ...

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 ...

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Embedded Systems Engineer information

See Urbana, IL salary details

$62.9K

$138.2K

$193.2K

How much do embedded systems engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for embedded systems engineer in Urbana, IL is $138,158.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $112,200.00 and $164,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an embedded systems engineer 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.

Are embedded systems engineers in demand?

Embedded systems engineers are in high demand due to the growth of IoT, automotive, healthcare, and consumer electronics industries. They typically require skills in programming languages like C and C++, and knowledge of hardware integration, with job opportunities expected to increase as embedded technology becomes more widespread.

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 is an embedded systems engineer?

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 cities near Urbana, IL are hiring for Embedded Systems Engineer jobs? Cities near Urbana, IL with the most Embedded Systems Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Embedded Systems Engineer job openings in Urbana, IL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 79% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 88% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $138,158 per year, or $66.4 per hour.

Software Engineering Manager

SteveRecruiter, LLC

Champaign, IL • On-site

Other

Re-posted 6 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


- This role requires very strong experience in C++, RTOS, and its related security, networking, and drivers.


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.