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Firmware Developer Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

DMC Engineering

Embedded Engineer

Chicago, IL · Hybrid

$135K - $178K/yr

(Hybrid) Description Are you passionate about embedded systems, from initial ideas to hardware design to the final firmware? As an Embedded Engineer at DMC, you will use your embedded expertise and ...

DMC Engineering

Embedded Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$135K - $178K/yr

(Hybrid) Description Are you passionate about embedded systems, from initial ideas to hardware design to the final firmware? As an Embedded Engineer at DMC, you will use your embedded expertise and ...

Fermilab

Controls Engineer

Batavia, IL · On-site

$85K - $110K/yr

In this role, you will design and implement electronics systems, firmware, and software to read out sensor data and control experiments. What your day-to-day as a Controls Engineer at Fermilab will ...

AHEAD

Product Engineer II

Libertyville, IL · On-site

As a Product Engineer II - Configuration Services, you will be instrumental in implementing ... Diagnose and resolve hardware, firmware, and software compatibility issues in coordination with ...

AHEAD

Product Engineer II

Libertyville, IL · On-site

$100K - $160K/yr

As a Product Engineer II - Configuration Services, you will be instrumental in implementing ... Diagnose and resolve hardware, firmware, and software compatibility issues in coordination with ...

AHEAD

Product Engineer 1

Libertyville, IL · On-site

As a Product Engineer I - Configuration Services, you will be instrumental in implementing ... Diagnose and resolve hardware, firmware, and software compatibility issues in coordination with ...

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Showing results 41-60

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 Sep 5, 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 is a firmware developer?

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 skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as a firmware developer?

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 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 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 automotive, consumer electronics, and IoT. Skills in C, C++, and real-time operating systems are particularly valuable, and job opportunities are expected to remain strong as technology continues to advance.

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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 10% Contract. Highlights an 82% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $115,707 per year, or $55.6 per hour.

Lead Rust Developer (embedded)

3B Staffing LLC

West Chicago, IL • On-site

Full-time

Posted 4 days ago

Job description

The Firmware Platform team at Weber is at the forefront of innovation, powering all connected grills and accessories. We are responsible for the full embedded stack-from hardware bring-up to distributed systems, radio communications, sensor integration, and the development of future-forward features for Wi-Fi and Bluetooth-enabled devices.

We are seeking a highly experienced and technically exceptional engineer to join our team and contribute to our expanding portfolio of Internet-connected products. This role demands a deep understanding of embedded systems, a passion for building robust and scalable firmware, and the ability to lead and mentor within a high-performing, cross-functional team.

What You'll Do

  • Architect, develop, and maintain firmware for next-generation connected grills and accessories.
  • Lead hardware-software integration efforts, including board bring-up and debugging.
  • Collaborate with iOS, Android, Cloud, and Electrical Engineering teams to deliver seamless, high-quality user experiences.
  • Drive innovation in embedded connectivity, real-time systems, and sensor integration.
  • Contribute to long-term platform strategy and technical direction.

Required Qualifications

  • BS/MS in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or Computer Engineering, or equivalent practical experience.
  • 10+ years of professional experience in embedded systems development.
  • Expert-level proficiency in Rust; strong Python skills for tooling and automation.
  • Deep experience with ARM SoCs, RISC-V, MCUs, and wireless technologies (Wi-Fi, Bluetooth).
  • Strong understanding of embedded protocols: SPI, I2C, UART, USB, DRAM.
  • Proven experience in bare-metal and RTOS-based system design.
  • Demonstrated ability to read schematics, interpret datasheets, and work closely with hardware teams.
  • Proficiency in debugging embedded systems, writing unit tests, and using profiling tools.
  • Familiarity with CI/CD pipelines, Git workflows, and project management tools (e.g., JIRA).
  • Hands-on experience with lab equipment: oscilloscopes, logic analyzers, signal generators.
  • Strong grasp of software architecture principles: modularity, concurrency, scalability, and real-time constraints.
  • Experience working in globally distributed teams and mentoring junior engineers.
  • Knowledge of EMI/EMC design practices and compliance testing.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Experience with Rust in embedded environments.
  • Contributions to open-source embedded projects or technical publications.
  • Familiarity with security best practices in IoT firmware development.

Apply