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Entry Level Embedded Engineer Jobs in Peoria, IL

Entry Level Embedded Engineer information

See Peoria, IL salary details

$61.3K

$134.7K

$188.4K

How much do entry level embedded engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level embedded engineer in Peoria, IL is $134,691.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $109,400.00 and $160,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as an Entry Level Embedded Engineer, you need a solid understanding of C/C++ programming, embedded systems concepts, and a degree in electrical engineering, computer engineering, or a related field. Familiarity with microcontrollers, real-time operating systems (RTOS), hardware debugging tools, and version control systems like Git is typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication make candidates stand out in this role. These skills and qualities are crucial for developing reliable embedded solutions, troubleshooting hardware-software interactions, and collaborating with cross-functional engineering teams.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level embedded engineers when transitioning from academic projects to real-world products?

Entry level embedded engineers often find that real-world projects involve stricter requirements for reliability, safety, and maintainability compared to academic assignments. They may need to quickly adapt to working with legacy code, constrained hardware resources, and industry-standard development tools. Additionally, collaborating with multidisciplinary teams—such as hardware designers, firmware developers, and QA engineers—requires strong communication and documentation skills. Understanding version control systems and participating in code reviews are also common aspects of the work environment.

What does an Entry Level Embedded Engineer do?

An Entry Level Embedded Engineer helps design, develop, and test software that runs on embedded systems, such as microcontrollers or other specialized hardware. Their work often involves coding in languages like C or C++ to create firmware that controls devices ranging from household electronics to automotive systems. They also assist with debugging, troubleshooting, and sometimes hardware integration under the guidance of more experienced engineers. This role provides foundational experience in both software and hardware aspects of embedded systems.
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Embedded Engineer jobs in Peoria, IL? For Entry Level Embedded Engineer jobs in Peoria, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Embedded Engineer jobs in Peoria, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Embedded Engineer jobs in Peoria, IL are:
What cities near Peoria, IL are hiring for Entry Level Embedded Engineer jobs? Cities near Peoria, IL with the most Entry Level Embedded Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Embedded Engineer job openings in Peoria, IL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 82% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $134,691 per year, or $64.8 per hour.

Embedded Software Engineer

RFA Engineering

Chillicothe, IL • On-site

$75K - $115K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 17 days ago


Job description

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 is associated with the design and development of embedded software applications that control machine operations and functions used in heavy equipment, power systems, and off-highway vehicles. Development methods include C/C++ programming language and Model Based Software Design. Testing methods include bench testing, computer simulation testing, hardware-in-the-loop testing, and machine testing.
Responsibilities
  • Feature by feature embedded software development per Software Requirements Documents for applications that control machine and vehicle functions.
  • Integration of software in a multi-developer team environment using modern software development practices.
  • Functional and integration testing prior to hand-off to software test and evaluation groups.
  • Development and release status tracking using Agile development methodologies.
  • Creation and support of software used for prototype and production machine programs.
  • Troubleshoot and provide solutions for issues discovered during software development and validation activities.
  • Creation of software design documentation.
  • Design, develop, and modify software features and libraries used in embedded control systems.
  • Work with software architects and developers to research and investigate project-specific applications.
  • Develop and execute test cases to perform unit testing, integration testing, and regression testing.
  • Collaborate with electrical, systems, validation, and manufacturing teams to ensure successful product integration.
  • Support root cause investigations related to software and machine performance concerns.

Requirements
  • BS in Software, Computer, Electrical, or other relevant Engineering degree.
  • Experience with C or C++ development.
  • 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
  • Experience with CAN J1939 & LIN communication protocols.
  • Experience with Simulink/Matlab Model Based Software Design.
  • Experience with GitHub or similar version control systems.
  • General machine knowledge of vehicles, mobile equipment, or heavy equipment.
  • Able to read/understand electrical schematics.
  • Experience with embedded controls or machine control systems.
  • Experience with Agile software development processes.
  • Desire to work in an engineering environment focused on advanced machine control technologies.

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
#ZR
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.