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Firmware Developer Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Fermilab

FPGA Firmware Developer

Batavia, IL · On-site

$99K - $130K/yr

Fermilab is seeking a FPGA Firmware Developer who will design, develop, verify, and integrate FPGA-based systems and embedded firmware. Responsibilities include architecture definition, RTL ...

Mi-Jack Products

Firmware Engineer

Homewood, IL

$83K - $95K/yr

Firmware Engineer - Homewood, Illinois DUTIES: * Assist leadership with new ideas and concepts for improving products. * Identify problems and drive creative solutions to fix them. * Maintains ...

NEOTECH

Firmware Engineer (24760)

Naperville, IL · On-site

About the Role We are seeking a talented Embedded Firmware Engineer to design, develop, and maintain firmware for embedded systems used in our products. You will work closely with hardware, software ...

Lanco

Firmware Engineer

Homewood, IL · On-site

$83K - $95K/yr

Firmware Engineer - Homewood, Illinois DUTIES: * Assist leadership with new ideas and concepts for improving products. * Identify problems and drive creative solutions to fix them. * Maintains ...

MJMC, Inc.

Firmware Engineer

Homewood, IL

$83K - $95K/yr

Firmware Engineer - Homewood, Illinois DUTIES: * Assist leadership with new ideas and concepts for improving products. * Identify problems and drive creative solutions to fix them. * Maintains ...

NEOTech

Firmware Engineer (24760)

Naperville, IL · On-site

$85K - $95K/yr

About the Role We are seeking a talented Embedded Firmware Engineer to design, develop, and maintain firmware for embedded systems used in our products. You will work closely with hardware, software ...

Mi-Jack Products

Firmware Engineer

Homewood, IL · On-site

$83K - $95K/yr

Firmware Engineer - Homewood, Illinois DUTIES: * Assist leadership with new ideas and concepts for improving products. * Identify problems and drive creative solutions to fix them. * Maintains ...

sunpowerconsulting

Firmware Engine

Chicago, IL · On-site

... and firmware design experience in an embedded environment utilizing popular 8/16 bit ... Must be strong with C/C++ programming 2. Excellent digital and analog hardware knowledge3.

Resideo

Sr Embedded Engineer

Aurora, IL · On-site

$99K - $135K/yr

We are seeking a highly skilled and experienced Senior Embedded Firmware Engineer to development of sensor applications. In this role, you will be responsible for designing, implementing, and ...

Resideo

Sr Embedded Engineer

Aurora, IL · Hybrid

$99K - $135K/yr

We are seeking a highly skilled and experienced Senior Embedded Firmware Engineer to development of sensor applications. In this role, you will be responsible for designing, implementing, and ...

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All JobsFirmware Developer JobsFirmware Developer Jobs in Chicago, IL

Firmware Developer information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$79.9K

$115.7K

$185.1K

How much do firmware developer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for firmware developer in Chicago, IL is $115,707.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $94,300.00 and $124,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What engineer makes $500,000 a year?

Highly experienced engineers in specialized fields such as software engineering, data science, or executive engineering roles can earn $500,000 or more annually. These positions often require advanced skills, certifications, leadership responsibilities, and work in high-demand industries or companies. Compensation at this level typically includes base salary, bonuses, and stock options.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior firmware developers, especially those with specialized skills in embedded systems, real-time operating systems, or working in high-demand industries like aerospace or defense, can earn $300,000 or more annually. Achieving this level often requires extensive experience, advanced certifications, and working in high-paying regions or companies with complex hardware and software integration responsibilities.

Are firmware engineers paid well?

Firmware engineers typically earn competitive salaries due to their specialized skills in embedded systems, programming in languages like C and C++, and knowledge of hardware integration. Compensation varies based on experience, location, and industry, but overall, firmware development is considered a well-paying field within software engineering roles.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Firmware Developer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Firmware Developer, you need a solid background in embedded systems, proficiency in C/C++ programming, and a degree in computer engineering, electrical engineering, or a related field. Experience with microcontroller architectures, debugging tools (like JTAG or ICE), and version control systems such as Git is typically required. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help you collaborate across hardware and software teams. These skills are crucial for developing reliable, efficient firmware that enables hardware devices to function correctly and meet user requirements.

What are Firmware Developers?

Firmware Developers are engineers who design, develop, and maintain low-level software that directly controls hardware devices. Their work typically involves writing code in languages like C or C++ to ensure hardware components operate as intended, often within embedded systems such as microcontrollers and consumer electronics. Firmware developers collaborate closely with hardware engineers and may also troubleshoot or update firmware to enhance device performance. Their role is crucial in industries like automotive, consumer electronics, and industrial automation.

What is the difference between Firmware Developer vs Embedded Software Engineer?

AspectFirmware DeveloperEmbedded Software Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's in Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or related fields; certifications like Certified Embedded Systems EngineerBachelor's in Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or related fields; similar certifications
Work EnvironmentDesigning and developing low-level code for hardware devices, often working in hardware labs or development teamsDeveloping software for embedded systems, often in cross-functional teams, with focus on hardware-software integration
Industry UsageUsed in consumer electronics, automotive, IoT devices, and industrial equipmentCommon in automotive, medical devices, consumer electronics, and industrial automation

Firmware Developers and Embedded Software Engineers share similar skills and work environments, focusing on hardware-related software development. The main difference lies in their scope: Firmware Developers typically work on low-level code directly interacting with hardware, while Embedded Software Engineers may handle higher-level embedded applications. Both roles are essential in industries like automotive, IoT, and consumer electronics.

Are firmware developers in demand?

Firmware developers are in high demand due to the growth of embedded systems in industries such as consumer electronics, automotive, and IoT. Skilled professionals with knowledge of programming languages like C and C++, and experience with hardware integration, are particularly sought after in the job market.

What are some common challenges Firmware Developers face when working on embedded systems projects?

Firmware Developers often encounter challenges such as optimizing code for limited memory and processing power, integrating with diverse hardware platforms, and ensuring reliable communication between software and hardware components. Debugging can be especially tricky due to limited visibility into low-level operations, requiring specialized tools like JTAG debuggers or oscilloscopes. Collaboration with hardware engineers and cross-functional teams is essential to address hardware-software integration issues and to ensure timely delivery of stable, efficient firmware.
What are popular job titles related to Firmware Developer jobs in Chicago, IL? For Firmware Developer jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Firmware Developer jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Firmware Developer jobs in Chicago, IL are:
Firmware Developer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Firmware Developer job openings in Chicago, IL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 6% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 9% Contract. Highlights an 82% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 15% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $115,707 per year, or $55.6 per hour.
FPGA Firmware Developer

FPGA Firmware Developer

Fermilab

Batavia, IL • On-site

$99K - $130K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 5 days ago

Job description

The expected hiring range for this position is:
$99,500.00-$130,900.00.
Please note that the pay range information is a general guideline only. The pay offered to a selected candidate will be determined based on factors such the scope and responsibilities of the position, qualifications of the selected candidate, business considerations, internal equity, and external market pay for comparable jobs.
This position is not eligible for relocation assistance however is eligible for sponsorship and the employee referral bonus program.
About the Role:
Fermilab is seeking a FPGA Firmware Developer who will design, develop, verify, and integrate FPGA-based systems and embedded firmware. Responsibilities include architecture definition, RTL implementation, simulation, timing closure, hardware-firmware integration, documentation, and support of lab and system-level testing. Work adheres to all applicable regulations, requirements, engineering standards, and DOE orders.
What your day-to-day as a FPGA Firmware Developer at Fermilab will look like:
  • Designing and implementing FPGA logic, RTL, embedded firmware, and supporting test infrastructure.
  • Performing simulation, verification, timing analysis, constraints development, and optimization.
  • Developing detailed specifications, design documentation, and test plans.
  • Planning and executing medium to large FPGA engineering projects from concept through deployment.
  • Coordinating and directing technicians and engineers during integration and testing.
  • Participating in procurement, manufacturing, installation, and operation of FPGA-based systems.
  • Supporting cost estimation, scheduling, and project planning activities.
  • Reviewing work for adherence to specifications, standards, and project constraints.
  • Providing technical direction to designers, technicians, and junior engineers.
  • Participating in reviews, safety panels, and technical committees.
  • You may participate in technical conferences and publication.
  • You will perform other duties as assigned by supervisor.
  • You will abide by and be responsible for performing all duties in accordance with all environmental, health and safety regulations and practices pertinent to this position.

Skills and Attributes for Success:
  • Bachelor's degree in an applicable engineering discipline from an ABET-accredited institution with 6+ years of engineering experience
  • OR a Master's/PhD with 4+ years of relevant experience.

Applicable Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Required:
  • Proficiency in FPGA development concepts, digital logic design, and engineering methodologies.
  • Ability to plan and document medium to large FPGA development projects.
  • Ability to apply standard to moderately complex engineering techniques.
  • Preferred experience with Xilinx FPGA chipsets (e.g., Zynq, UltraScale, 7-Series).
  • Preferred experience with Xilinx development tools including Vivado, Vitis, and High-Level Synthesis (HLS).
  • Preferred experience developing and debugging designs using JTAG, Xilinx IP, block design workflows, and hardware debugging tools such as ILA.

Work Arrangement:
Please note that the described work arrangement is subject to change based on business needs and is not guaranteed to be final.
  • Onsite: This is an onsite role, and the candidate must be able to work from our Batavia office.

Benefits/Perks:
Fermilab offers a competitive and comprehensive benefits program, including:
  • Medical, Dental, Vision and Flexible Spending Accounts
  • Paid time off
  • Life insurance
  • Short and Long-term disability insurance
  • Retirement benefits
  • Onsite day care

Why Fermilab:
Fermilab is America's premier laboratory for particle physics and accelerator research, funded by the U.S. Department of Energy. We support discovery science experiments in Illinois and locations around the world, including deep underground mines in South Dakota and Canada, mountaintops in Arizona and Chile, CERN in Europe and the South Pole.
Pre-Employment Screening:
Drug-Free Workplace & Pre-Employment Screening
Fermilab is dedicated to fostering a safe, productive and drug-free environment. An offer of employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check and drug screening.
HSPD-12
In accordance with Homeland Security Presidential Directive 12 (HSPD-12) new employees are required to obtain and maintain a HSPD-12 Personal Identity Verification (PIV) Credential. To obtain this credential, new employees must successfully complete and pass a federal background check investigation. This investigation includes a declaration of illegal drug activities, including use, supply, possession, or manufacture. This includes marijuana and cannabis derivatives, which are still considered illegal under federal law, regardless of state laws. Failure to obtain or maintain such government access authorization could result in the withdrawal of a job offer or future termination of employment.
Foreign Government Sponsored Activities
Fermilab employees, and certain guest researchers and contractors, are subject to particular restrictions related to participation in Foreign Government Sponsored or Affiliated Activities, as defined and detailed in United States Department of Energy Order 486.1A. Such individuals will be asked to disclose any participation for review by Fermilab's Office of General Counsel.
REAL-ID Requirement for access to Fermilab Campus
Fermilab requires all members of the public to produce a REAL-ID, or equivalent, to access the Fermilab Campus for interviews or career events. A list of acceptable forms of ID can be found here: https://get-connected.fnal.gov/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/REALID-Documents.pdf. If a candidate is selected for an interview but does not possess any of the equivalent documents, we may schedule a virtual interview.
Equal Opportunity Statement
Fermilab is an equal opportunity employer. We evaluate qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, disability, veteran status, genetic information, and other legally protected categories.

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