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Entry Level Embedded Jobs in Chicago, IL (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 ...

Entry Level Embedded information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$72.1K

$158K

$179.2K

How much do entry level embedded jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level embedded in Chicago, IL is $158,007.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $135,500.00 and $178,200.00 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 Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Embedded jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Embedded jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Embedded jobs in Chicago, IL are:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Embedded job openings in Chicago, IL as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $158,007 per year, or $76 per hour.
2026 Associate Embedded Software Engineer - Rolling Meadows IL

2026 Associate Embedded Software Engineer - Rolling Meadows IL

Northrop Grumman Corporation

Rolling Meadows, IL • On-site

$70K - $106K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, PTO

This job post has expired 2 days ago. Applications are no longer accepted.


Northrop Grumman rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 345 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

110th of 521 rated manufacturers


Job description

RELOCATION ASSISTANCE: Relocation assistance may be availableCLEARANCE REQUIRED FOR START: YesCLEARANCE TYPE: SecretTRAVEL: Yes, 10% of the TimeDescriptionAt 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.

Entry Level opportunities at Northrop Grumman are unique. Are you interested in boosting your knowledge through experience and exposure, while supporting a mission that seeks to protect our nation and its allies? If so, then Northrop Grumman is the place you!

Our professionals live and breathe different perspectives; we are curious about the world, accepting each other, and aware that the more ideas, backgrounds, opinions and experiences we bring to our work, the stronger that work will be. Just as you would invest your time and hard work into our company, we focus on investing back into you through enriching professional experiences and high-quality learning and development opportunities. We want you to bring your whole self to work, and for you to have meaningful connections with your coworkers, customers and communities, while providing the best products, systems and technologies to protect our world.

The qualified candidate will become part of Northrop Grumman's Multidomain Sensing, Targeting and Survivability (MSTS) Division.Rolling Meadows employees are all about redefining what's possible in the realms of navigation, targeting, and state-of-the-art self-protection. The systems that they design, build, integrate and test are created with the dynamics of present and future operational stakes in mind.

Northrop Grumman is seeking Embedded Software Engineers. This position will be located at our Mission Systems Sector in Rolling Meadows, IL.

You'll Have an Opportunity to:

Engage in a full life-cycle approach-- design, implementation, test verification, production of digital electronic equipment and other hardware systems

Basic Qualifications:

  • A candidate must meet ALL of the criteria below.
  • Be completing or has completed their degree (Bachelor's, Master's, or PhD) from an accredited institution
  • Be majoring in or having majored in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, or Electrical Engineering
  • A final DoD Secret clearance is required to start (U.S. citizenship is a pre-requisite)
  • The ability to obtain Special Access Program within a reasonable period of time, as determined by the company to meet its business needs.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Have an overall cumulative GPA of 3.0/4.0 or higher
  • A current/active DoD Secret clearance
  • It will be helpful, though not required, for your course work to have included:
  • Structured Programming (C), and/or
  • Object Oriented Programming (C++, Java) and/or
  • Software architecture (design patterns, multithreaded programming, objected oriented design), and/or
  • Operating system concepts for embedded systems, and/or
  • Software development methodologies or frameworks (Waterfall Methodology or Agile), and/or
  • Version control (Git, GitLab, Visual Studio, GitHub, or Bitbucket, etc.), and/or
  • Agile software planning tools (Jira or Rally, etc.)

Pay Range:Bachelors:$70,600 - $106,000

#campusjobs

Primary Level Salary Range: $70,600.00 - $106,000.00The 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