Entry Level Computer Hardware Engineer Jobs in Peoria, IL

RFA Engineering (www.rfamec.com) is an engineering service provider dedicated to delivering our clients with timely engineering support and expertise. We are seeking an entry-level to experienced candidate to become an integral part of our engineering team. The selected candidate will work with an experienced engineering staff using state-of-the-art engineering tools & processes. This position will operate onsite at our customer's world-class engineering and manufacturing facility.

This is a full-time position with a full benefit package listed below that includes opportunities for professional growth, direct hire by our customers, and additional opportunities within our own organization.

Embedded Software Engineer

This position will develop, execute, and automate Hardware-in-the-Loop (HIL) validation activities for embedded control systems. The role focuses on dSPACE-based test environments, system-level verification, automation, and troubleshooting of electronic control software and hardware.

Responsibilities

• Develop, execute, and document Hardware-in-the-Loop (HIL) validation strategies, test plans, and procedures for embedded control systems, ECUs, and vehicle-level software features to ensure compliance with functional and performance requirements.

• Configure, maintain, and troubleshoot HIL test environments utilizing dSPACE, Vector, and related simulation platforms, including integration of plant models, communication networks, and test automation frameworks.

• Design, develop, and maintain automated test scripts, validation tools, and data acquisition solutions using industry-standard software and scripting languages to improve test coverage, repeatability, and overall validation efficiency.

• Analyze test results, identify software and system-level defects, perform root cause investigations, and collaborate with cross-functional engineering teams to drive corrective actions and resolution of complex integration issues.

• Validate embedded software interactions with sensors, actuators, communication networks, and vehicle subsystems, ensuring reliable operation under normal, boundary, and fault conditions.

• Support verification and validation activities throughout the product development lifecycle, including requirements reviews, test case development, traceability analysis, regression testing, and release readiness assessments.

• Generate detailed validation reports, test summaries, and technical documentation, clearly communicating findings, risks, and recommendations to stakeholders and project teams.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in computer science, software engineering, electrical engineering or relevant field required.
• 2 + years of demonstrated software development or testing experience.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Self-motivated, quick learner, with an any-problem-can-be-solved attitude.
• Good organizational and time management skills.
• Ability to identify needed actions and act to resolve issues.
• Ability to communicate technical information effectively.
• Ability to thrive in a team environment.
• Must have a valid Driver's License.

Desired Attributes

• Verbal and written communication skills, problem solving skills, customer service and interpersonal skills.
• Knowledge of reading schematics and data sheets for components
• Basic knowledge of the full software development lifecycle: from business/systems analysis, through requirements gathering and functional specification authoring, to development, testing and delivery.
• Basic ability to troubleshoot issues and make system changes as needed to resolve issue.
• Basic knowledge of computer hardware and software. Solid programming experience in C or C++
• Knowledge of computer development software as it relates to embedded systems, such as SQL, VisualBasic, etc.
• Strong hands-on experience with dSPACE HIL systems, ECU validation, and embedded controls testing.
• Proficiency with MATLAB/Simulink and model-based development concepts.
• Experience with Python automation, test scripting, and data analysis.
• Knowledge of CAN/J1939, UDS diagnostics, Vector tools, and hardware troubleshooting/debugging.

Visa sponsorship is NOT available for this position.

Pay Range: $75,000-$115,000 – Commensurate with experience

About RFA Engineering

RFA Engineering has provided product development and engineering services to industry leading customers since 1943. Our primary focus is the development of off highway equipment including agricultural, construction, mining, recreational, industrial, and special machines. Our work includes concept development, product design, documentation, problem-solving, simulation, optimization, and testing of components, systems and complete machines. Our engineering staff is located at our Engineering Center in Minneapolis, branch office in Dubuque, IA, and at numerous customer sites throughout the U.S.

Competitive Benefits

• Health and Dental Insurance
• Health Savings Account
• TelaDoc: Virtual Health Care
• Vision Insurance
• Company Paid / Supplemental Life Insurance
• Company Paid Long-Term Disability
• Supplemental Short-Term Disability
• Retirement Savings Account (Traditional 401k & Roth 401k)
• Flexible Spending Plan Dependent Care
• Bonus Plan (Exempt Employees Only)
• Paid Time Off (PTO)
• Paid Holidays
• Bereavement Leave
• Employee Assistance Programs (EAP)
• Education Assistance

Equal Opportunity and Veteran Friendly