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Embedded Test Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

We are seeking an Embedded Software Engineer to help drive the development of next-generation ... Works closely with the Software Quality Assurance team to test, troubleshoot, resolve, and release ...

We are seeking an Embedded Software Engineer to help drive the development of next-generation ... Works closely with the Software Quality Assurance team to test, troubleshoot, resolve, and release ...

Embedded Software Engineer

Wheeling, IL · On-site

$127K - $190K/yr

With interesting opportunities in engineering, marketing, sales, supply chain, operations, HR ... Experience using Python or the like to write external test code to validate embedded code

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$21.6K

$105.3K

$154.6K

How much do embedded test engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for embedded test engineer in Chicago, IL is $105,308.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $88,100.00 and $128,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by Embedded Test Engineers when verifying embedded systems, and how can they be addressed?

Embedded Test Engineers often encounter challenges such as limited visibility into system behavior, hardware-software integration issues, and timing constraints unique to embedded devices. To address these, engineers typically use specialized debugging tools, simulators, and hardware-in-the-loop setups to observe and validate system performance. Effective communication with hardware and firmware teams is crucial to quickly resolve issues. Additionally, staying updated on testing frameworks and automation tools can help streamline verification processes and improve test coverage.

What are Embedded Test Engineers?

Embedded Test Engineers are professionals who design, develop, and execute tests for embedded systems—specialized computing systems that are part of larger devices, such as cars, medical devices, or consumer electronics. Their main responsibility is to ensure that the hardware and software components of these systems function correctly and reliably. They create test plans, automate test cases, identify bugs, and work closely with development teams to resolve issues. By thoroughly testing embedded systems, they help guarantee product safety, quality, and performance before the product goes to market.

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

To thrive as an Embedded Test Engineer, you need a solid understanding of embedded systems, software testing methodologies, and proficiency in programming languages like C/C++ or Python, often backed by a degree in electrical engineering or computer science. Familiarity with test automation frameworks, hardware debugging tools, and version control systems such as Git is typically required. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication are standout soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure robust and reliable embedded products by enabling precise identification and resolution of defects throughout the development lifecycle.

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

AspectEmbedded Test EngineerFirmware Test Engineer
CertificationsRelevant certifications like ISTQB, embedded systems coursesSimilar certifications, often with firmware or embedded systems focus
Work EnvironmentEmbedded hardware and software testing in embedded systemsTesting firmware within embedded devices or systems
Industry UsageElectronics, automotive, consumer devicesConsumer electronics, IoT, embedded systems
Search & ComparisonOften compared due to overlapping skills in embedded systems testingRelated but more firmware-specific

Embedded Test Engineers focus on testing both hardware and software components of embedded systems, ensuring integration and functionality. Firmware Test Engineers specialize in testing the firmware that runs on embedded devices, often working closely with developers to validate code. While both roles require knowledge of embedded systems, the Embedded Test Engineer has a broader scope including hardware testing, whereas the Firmware Test Engineer concentrates on firmware validation.

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Embedded Test Engineer jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Embedded Test Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Embedded Test Engineer job openings in Chicago, IL as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, 2% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 89% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $105,308 per year, or $50.6 per hour.
Engineer Embedded Software

Engineer Embedded Software

Northrop Grumman Corporation

Rolling Meadows, IL • On-site

$132K - $174K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, PTO

Posted 28 days ago


Northrop Grumman rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 338 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

106th of 518 rated manufacturers


Job description

RELOCATION ASSISTANCE: No relocation assistance available
CLEARANCE REQUIRED FOR START: No
CLEARANCE TYPE: Secret
TRAVEL: Yes, 10% of the TimeDescription
At Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work - and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible. Our employees are not only part of history, they're making history.
Northrop Grumman Mission Systems is a trusted provider of mission-enabling solutions for global security. We have a wide portfolio of secure, affordable, integrated, and multi-domain systems and technologies. Our differentiated battle management and cyber solutions deliver timely, mission-enabling information and provide superior situational awareness and understanding to protect the U.S. and its global allies.
Northrop Grumman Mission Systems (NGMS) is looking for you to join our team as a Embedded Software Engineer - Manufacturing Test Engineering (RF Systems) based out of Rolling Meadows, IL.
Manufacturing Engineers thrive in an environment of daily unique challenges and close proximity to products. Partnering with production, successful test engineers lead troubleshooting and ensure excellence in hardware and software. Engineers who do well in this setting enjoy seeing their work perform in a test or a product, collaborate and communicate well across functions, and are innovative problem solvers. Best suited to this role are those who enjoy learning and bring a sense of urgency and energy to their tasks.
This position will support software efforts associated with testing Radio Frequency (RF) production hardware in a dynamic, fast-paced and technically challenging production environment.
Behavioral Traits sought out:
  • The Manufacturing Software Engineers are expected to be problem solvers with the ability to provide results that are innovative and often achieved through collaboration across functional groups.
  • We seek individuals with proven excellence in the following 6 core competencies:

a) High levels of Self-accountability and Ownership
b) Acts with Speed
c) Responds to Challenges with Resilience
d) Leads with Courage
e) Sets vision for the assigned products
f) Builds a High Performing Team
This individual will be responsible for all aspects of test software development from requirements capture through final validation and release. A successful person in this role will be very effective at leading collaboration with the product Design Engineer, the Test Hardware Engineer, the Quality Assurance Engineer and the Manufacturing Technician. This position would include providing needed efforts to set up and support the acceptance testing of the Shop Replaceable Units, as well as acceptance testing and environmental screening at the payload (Line Replaceable Unit) level. This position will support aerial, military-grade, or space-grade Electronic Warfare Systems and Subsystems.
What you will get to do:
  • Support to Production: Review and make needed updates to software governing how test equipment operates. Troubleshoot discrepancies in software packages. Coordinate with Electrical Design Engineering, Software & Firmware Engineering, Production technician, Project Management, Manufacturing Engineering, Industrial Engineering, and Quality organizations to meet contractual acceptance testing and environmental screening commitments.
  • Software design - coding & integration/validation: Investigate, design, and provide solutions to meet new or modified testing requirements.
  • Test procedure development/Maintenance: Generate and maintain/revise Manufacturing Acceptance testing procedures, Environmental Screening procedures, hardware drawings of test equipment and fixtures.
  • Continuous improvement: Review of quality metrics to identify and implement continuous improvement initiatives to reduce cost, cycle time, defects.
  • Testability reviews: Collaborate with design engineering to achieve testability in new and updated product design.
  • Ability to interface/communicate with multiple levels of leadership, clients, and vendors.

Building a strong professional relationship with other Manufacturing disciplines (Process Engineering, Project Management, Shop Operations, Mission Assurance), strong decision-making skills and a high-level ethical standard is essential.
Basic Qualifications for the Manufacturing Test Software Engineer (RF Systems):
  • Bachelor of Science degree in Computer Science, Electrical and/or Computer Engineering or a related STEM field with a minimum of 2 years relevant experience; OR a Master of Science (MS) degree in equivalent fields with 0 or more years of experience.
  • Experience with hardware and calibration / testing methodology
  • Experience working with use of any test instruments such as (but not limited to) Performance Network Analyzer, Signal Generator, Spectrum Analyzer, Oscilloscope, etc.
  • Experience with programming languages such as C#, C, LabVIEW or Lab Windows CVI
  • Experience with troubleshooting of hardware, software, or firmware issues
  • Experience completing software projects involving software design / development activities and/or integration and validation activities on schedule and on budget.
  • Ability to obtain and maintain a Secret clearance.
  • US Citizenship required.

Preferred Qualifications for the Manufacturing Test Software Engineer (RF Systems):
  • Prior hardware & software troubleshooting experience of test equipment or prime hardware.
  • Experience in troubleshooting unit under test.
  • Experience with RF Electronic systems in manufacturing or design (software, firmware, etc.) environment.
  • Familiarity with reading schematics and interpreting electrical one-lines.
  • Experience using GitHub.
  • Active DoD Security Clearance.

What We Can Offer You:
Northrop Grumman provides a comprehensive benefits package and a work environment which encourages your growth and supports the mutual success of our people and our company. Northrop Grumman benefits give you the flexibility and control to choose the benefits that make the most sense for you and your family.
Your benefits will include the following: Health Plan, Savings Plan, Paid Time Off and Additional Benefits including Education Assistance, Training and Development, 9/80 Work Schedule (where available), and much more!
#MPR
Primary Level Salary Range: $87,600.00 - $131,400.00
The above salary range represents a general guideline; however, Northrop Grumman considers a number of factors when determining base salary offers such as the scope and responsibilities of the position and the candidate's experience, education, skills and current market conditions.
Depending on the position, employees may be eligible for overtime, shift differential, and a discretionary bonus in addition to base pay. Annual bonuses are designed to reward individual contributions as well as allow employees to share in company results. Employees in Vice President or Director positions may be eligible for Long Term Incentives. In addition, Northrop Grumman provides a variety of benefits including health insurance coverage, life and disability insurance, savings plan, Company paid holidays and paid time off (PTO) for vacation and/or personal business.
The application period for the job is estimated to be 20 days from the job posting date. However, this timeline may be shortened or extended depending on business needs and the availability of qualified candidates.
Northrop Grumman is an Equal Opportunity Employer, making decisions without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, or any other protected class. For our complete EEO and pay transparency statement, please visit http://www.northropgrumman.com/EEO. U.S. Citizenship is required for all positions with a government clearance and certain other restricted positions.

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About Northrop Grumman

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work - and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible.

Industry

Space research administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Falls Church, VA, US

Year founded

1939