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Entry Level Embedded Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

This is an entry level rotational position for STEM bachelor level graduates who have limited ... Embedded software development and HW/SW codesign and co-verification * UNIX , C/C++, and scripting ...

Are you looking for a career where professional development is embedded in your employers core ... From entry-level employees to senior leaders, we believe theres always room to learn. We offer ...

Entry Level Embedded information

See Illinois salary details

$69.4K

$148.6K

$171.2K

How much do entry level embedded jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level embedded in Illinois is $148,580.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $123,900.00 and $170,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Entry Level Embedded vs Entry Level Software Developer?

AspectEntry Level EmbeddedEntry Level Software Developer
Required CredentialsAssociate's or Bachelor's in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or related fieldsBachelor's in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or related fields
Work EnvironmentHardware-focused, working with microcontrollers, embedded systems, and real-time operating systemsSoftware-focused, developing applications for desktops, web, or mobile platforms
Industry UsageElectronics, automotive, aerospace, consumer electronicsIT, software companies, tech startups, enterprise software
Common Search/ComparisonYesYes

Entry Level Embedded roles typically involve working with hardware and embedded systems, requiring knowledge of electronics and real-time programming. In contrast, Entry Level Software Developer positions focus on developing software applications across various platforms. While both roles require programming skills, embedded roles emphasize hardware integration, making them distinct in work environment and skill set.

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, a solid understanding of C/C++ programming, basic electronics, and computer architecture is essential, often supported by a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with microcontrollers, debugging tools such as oscilloscopes and logic analyzers, and version control systems like Git are typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication help individuals excel in this role. These competencies ensure reliable embedded system design, smooth team collaboration, and successful delivery of technical solutions.

What are entry level embedded engineers?

Entry level embedded engineers are professionals who design, develop, and test software and hardware systems that are 'embedded' within devices, such as consumer electronics, automotive systems, or industrial machines. These engineers usually work with microcontrollers, processors, and real-time operating systems to ensure products function as intended. At the entry level, they typically assist with coding, debugging, and integrating embedded systems under the supervision of senior engineers. This role requires a foundational knowledge of programming languages like C or C++, as well as an understanding of electronics and hardware interfaces.

What types of projects and tasks can I expect to work on as an entry-level embedded engineer?

As an entry-level embedded engineer, you'll typically be involved in tasks such as writing and testing firmware, debugging hardware interfaces, and assisting with the integration of software and hardware components. You may also participate in code reviews, document your work, and help with troubleshooting issues that arise during product development. Collaboration with electrical engineers and senior software developers is common, giving you exposure to different stages of the product lifecycle and opportunities to learn from experienced team members.
What are the most commonly searched types of Embedded jobs in Illinois? The most popular types of Embedded jobs in Illinois are:
What cities in Illinois are hiring for Entry Level Embedded jobs? Cities in Illinois with the most Entry Level Embedded job openings:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Embedded job openings in Illinois as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $148,580 per year, or $71.4 per hour.
Application Engineer

$74K - $137K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 3 days ago


Job description

At Cadence, we hire and develop leaders and innovators who want to make an impact on the world of technology.

Cadence Design Systems is looking for new STEM bachelor's graduates with experience using electronic design automation (EDA) tools to join our Customer Support Team's (CST) Rotational Program in San Jose, CA, Austin TX, Cary NC, Columbia MD, or Burlington MA.

As an integral member of CST, you work with the best in class EDA tools, collaborate with technical experts and support the sales team in a dynamic, innovative environment focused on silicon design and design automation. In this customer facing role you will provide the front-line design services, technical sales and customer support to the most advanced Cadence customers and will work with the Cadence account teams to come up with innovative solutions to address our customers' most challenging technical problems. This is an entry level rotational position for STEM bachelor level graduates who have limited experience but a strong desire to learn and be a part of the electronic technologies of tomorrow.

At Cadence, we hire and develop leaders and innovators who want to make an impact on the world of technology.

The person in this full time regular entry level position will start in a cohort based, one year program that will include new colleges graduates from across North America and consist of two six month rotations with detailed, hands-on training in applications used for Digital Design/Simulation, Physical Design, Analog Layout, Advanced Verification or Hardware Emulation. This program is only for students graduating with a Bachelor's degree only. The opportunity to learn from the technical experts, sales and application engineers who provide the design services, technical sales and customer support to the most advanced Cadence customers will be included in this one year program.

After the cohort program has been successfully completed, the person in this role will be assigned full time regular responsibilities in a CST business group based on the person's interests and company needs.

This cohort-based program will offer experience in the following areas:

  • Fundamentals in design, verification, HDLs, synthesis and timing
  • Embedded software development and HW/SW codesign and co-verification
  • UNIX , C/C++, and scripting languages such as Perl, TCL, Python
  • Digital physical design and implementation
  • Sign-off for timing, IR drop, power analysis, SI analysis
  • Custom and analog design
  • Opportunity to network and participate in fun activities and recent college grad community at Cadence.

Cadence is a pivotal leader in electronic design, building upon more than 30 years of computational software expertise. The company applies its underlying Intelligent System Design strategy to deliver software, hardware and IP that turn silicon and electronic design concepts into reality.

Cadence customers are the world's most innovative companies, delivering extraordinary electronic products from chips to boards to systems for the most dynamic market applications including consumer, hyperscale computing, 5G communications, automotive, aerospace industrial and health.

At Cadence, we hire and develop leaders and innovators who want to make an impact on the world of technology.

The annual salary range for California is $74,200 to $137,800. You may also be eligible to receive incentive compensation: bonus, equity, and benefits. Sales positions generally offer a competitive On Target Earnings (OTE) incentive compensation structure. Please note that the salary range is a guideline and compensation may vary based on factors such as qualifications, skill level, competencies and work location. Our benefits programs include: paid vacation and paid holidays, 401(k) plan with employer match, employee stock purchase plan, a variety of medical, dental and vision plan options, and more.

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