2

Entry Level Embedded Systems Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Entry-level professional role responsible for supporting embedded systems firmware development activities within a defined technical scope. Applies foundational engineering knowledge to assist with ...

Entry-level professional role responsible for supporting embedded systems firmware development activities within a defined technical scope. Applies foundational engineering knowledge to assist with ...

Control Systems Engineer

Chillicothe, IL · On-site

$70K - $100K/yr

We are seeking an entry level to experienced candidate to become an integral part of our ... Experience with embedded software development or controls integration. * Knowledge of hydraulic ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Entry Level Embedded Systems information

See Illinois salary details

$60.6K

$133K

$186.1K

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

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level embedded systems in Illinois is $133,022.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $108,000.00 and $158,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry level embedded systems engineer?

An Entry Level Embedded Systems job involves designing, developing, and testing software and hardware for embedded devices, such as microcontrollers, IoT devices, and automotive systems. Engineers in this role typically work with programming languages like C and C++, embedded operating systems, and real-time systems. They may assist in debugging, optimizing code, and interfacing with hardware components. This position provides a foundation in embedded development, allowing engineers to gain experience with industry tools and protocols. It is ideal for recent graduates or those transitioning into embedded systems from related fields.

What are the typical responsibilities of an entry level embedded systems engineer?

As an entry level embedded systems engineer, your daily tasks may include writing and testing code for microcontrollers, assisting in circuit design, debugging embedded software, and supporting hardware-software integration. You'll often work closely with other engineers on tasks like prototyping, system validation, and troubleshooting, while learning industry-standard development workflows. You may also be involved in updating technical documentation and participating in team meetings to discuss project goals and challenges. These responsibilities provide foundational experience and exposure to various aspects of embedded systems development, preparing you for more advanced roles as you gain skills.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in an entry level embedded systems engineer position?

To thrive as an Entry Level Embedded Systems professional, you need a solid understanding of C/C++ programming, digital electronics, and basic knowledge of microcontrollers or microprocessors, typically supported by a degree in electrical, computer, or software engineering. Familiarity with tools like oscilloscopes, logic analyzers, integrated development environments (IDEs), and source control systems such as Git is often required, and certifications like ARM Accredited Engineer can be beneficial. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work both independently and collaboratively help individuals excel in this role. These technical and interpersonal abilities are crucial for developing reliable embedded solutions, troubleshooting complex issues, and contributing effectively to multidisciplinary engineering teams.

What are the most commonly searched types of Embedded Systems jobs in Illinois?

The most popular types of Embedded Systems jobs in Illinois are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Embedded Systems jobs in Illinois look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Embedded Systems jobs in Illinois are:

What cities in Illinois are hiring for Entry Level Embedded Systems jobs?

Cities in Illinois with the most Entry Level Embedded Systems job openings:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Embedded Systems job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 68% Full Time, 27% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $133,022 per year, or $64 per hour.

Embedded Software Developer C++

Chillicothe, IL • On-site

RFA Engineering
Engineering Professional Services • 201 - 500 employees

$75K - $115K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 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 Developer C++
The main function of this position is to apply the principles of computer science and mathematical analysis to the design, development, testing, and evaluation of the embedded software and systems that make computers work. A typical embedded software engineer researches, designs, develops and tests operating systems-level software, compilers, and network distribution software for medical, industrial, military, communications, aerospace, business, scientific and general computing applications.
Responsibilities
  • Design, develop, and implement embedded software solutions in C++ for embedded devices and systems, supporting the full product lifecycle from requirements definition through production deployment and ongoing product support.
  • Develop and maintain firmware and software architectures for real-time embedded applications, ensuring compliance with performance, reliability, and quality requirements.
  • Analyze, debug, and optimize software performance to improve system efficiency, stability, scalability, and resource utilization across embedded platforms.
  • Collaborate with cross-functional engineering teams to define software requirements, develop technical specifications, and integrate software with hardware components and communication interfaces.
  • Design, implement, and maintain logical and physical database structures, data management solutions, and associated software interfaces to support application functionality and system performance.
  • Perform software verification, validation, troubleshooting, and root-cause analysis to identify and resolve defects throughout the development process.
  • Create and maintain technical documentation, including software design descriptions, test procedures, interface specifications, and user documentation.
  • Evaluate project requirements, assess technical feasibility, and provide development effort, timeline, and cost estimates to support project planning and execution.
  • Participate in code reviews and continuous improvement initiatives to ensure adherence to software development best practices, coding standards, and quality processes.
  • Support product launch activities and provide ongoing enhancements, maintenance, and technical support for commercialized embedded software products.

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
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills with the ability to effectively collaborate across engineering, manufacturing, and cross-functional teams.
  • Proven analytical, troubleshooting, and problem-solving abilities with a customer-focused approach to identifying and resolving technical issues.
  • Ability to read and interpret electrical schematics, circuit diagrams, component datasheets, and hardware interface documentation.
  • Understanding of the complete Software Development Lifecycle (SDLC), including requirements gathering, system analysis, software design, development, testing, deployment, and maintenance.
  • Experience debugging embedded software and hardware issues, performing root-cause analysis, and implementing corrective actions to improve system reliability.
  • Knowledge of computer hardware architectures, microcontrollers, embedded systems, real-time operating systems (RTOS), and peripheral interfaces.
  • Strong programming experience in C and/or C++, including object-oriented design principles, data structures, memory management, and embedded software development best practices.
  • Familiarity with embedded development tools, IDEs, debuggers, version control systems (Git), and software configuration management processes.
  • Experience developing, maintaining, or interacting with databases and software applications utilizing technologies such as SQL, Visual Basic, or similar programming languages and development environments.
  • Ability to create and maintain software design documentation, test plans, technical specifications, and validation reports.
  • Knowledge of communication protocols such as CAN, UART, SPI, I2C, Ethernet, or similar embedded networking technologies is preferred.
  • Experience with software testing, verification, validation, and continuous improvement methodologies in embedded product development environments.

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.