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Firmware Intern Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Digital Modem Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$150K - $250K/yr

Collaborate with digital designers and firmware developers to realize algorithms with power and ... both intern and full-time opportunities. Benefits * Discretionary bonus eligibility * Medical ...

Firmware Intern information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$77.3K

$172.5K

$211.2K

How much do firmware intern jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for firmware intern in Chicago, IL is $172,485.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $147,300.00 and $211,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a firmware intern do?

A Firmware Intern assists in developing and testing low-level software that controls hardware devices, such as microcontrollers or embedded systems. Their responsibilities typically include writing code in languages like C or C++, debugging software, and working closely with hardware engineers to ensure seamless integration between software and hardware. They may also help with documentation and test procedures, gaining hands-on experience in the embedded systems field. This internship is a valuable opportunity to learn about the intersection of software and hardware in real-world applications.

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

To thrive as a Firmware Intern, you need a solid understanding of embedded systems, programming languages like C/C++, and a background in computer or electrical engineering. Familiarity with development environments such as Keil, IAR, or Eclipse, as well as experience using version control systems like Git, is often expected. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving ability, and effective communication skills help you collaborate with hardware and software teams. These skills ensure you can efficiently contribute to firmware development, debug issues, and support project goals in a technical environment.

What is the difference between Firmware Intern vs Firmware Engineer?

AspectFirmware InternFirmware Engineer
Required CredentialsTypically pursuing or recent graduate in Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or related fieldsBachelor's or Master's degree in similar fields, with relevant experience or certifications
Work EnvironmentInternship programs, entry-level projects, supervised tasksFull-time role, responsible for designing, developing, and testing firmware
Employer & Industry UsageTech companies, startups, hardware manufacturersSame as intern, but with more responsibility and independence

The main difference between a Firmware Intern and a Firmware Engineer lies in experience, responsibility, and scope of work. Interns are typically students or recent graduates gaining hands-on experience, while engineers are full-time professionals responsible for firmware development and maintenance.

What are the most commonly searched types of Firmware jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Firmware jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What are popular job titles related to Firmware Intern jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Firmware Intern jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Firmware Intern jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Firmware Intern jobs in Chicago, IL are:

Infographic showing various Firmware Intern job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 18% Internship, 1% As Needed, 54% Full Time, 25% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $172,485 per year, or $82.9 per hour.

Mechatronics Engineer Intern

Red Rabbit Robotics

Chicago, IL • On-site

Internship

Re-posted 15 days ago


Job description

About us: 

At Red Rabbit Robotics, we are on a mission to solve global labor shortage and create a future of abundance. We aim to deploy one million humanoid robots in the next 10 years, eventually producing and deploying > 10M robots per year. Our robots are designed to tackle manual labor across manufacturing, warehouse, logistics and more.

Founded just less than two years ago, we have already built eight generations of humanoid robot prototypes, secured venture backing, and attracted major customers eager to try out our solution. With real time human oversight and a powerful data flywheel, we are building embodied AI systems that can work in the real world in the same way as we do.

What we believe:

  • We are all about our customers. We talk to real folks in the industry to find out what they actually need, then we build products that solve those problems. Simple as that. 
  • We are agnostic to different technical approaches. There is no single “silver bullet” for real world robotics. We stay open-minded, keep learning, and try whatever works best. 
  • We keep it practical. For example, our robots have wheels, not legs (no backflips in the near future). We don’t waste time over-engineering fancy features that don’t make a real difference for our customers’ success. 

The role:

We are seeking a Mechatronics Engineer Intern with a passion for both mechanical and electronics engineering. You will assist in building and integrating the physical components of our robots, from arms and end effectors to sensors and mobile platforms. This position offers a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience while shaping the next generation of humanoid robots. This role is in person for our Chicago office.

What you will do:

  • Assemble humanoid robots.
  • Design and fabricate custom hardware parts using CAD for 3D printing, sheet metal, and CNC milling.
  • Set up and route cables, power supplies, and sensors (depth cameras, RGB cameras, LiDAR).
  • Assist in firmware-level tasks and communication protocols (RS232, I2C, CAN bus) to ensure everything connects properly.
  • Build temporary testing platforms, create CAD models for custom parts, order them, and oversee final assembly.
  • Work closely with senior engineers to conduct assembly, testing, and validation of robotic prototypes in lab and customer sites.

Requirements

What you will bring:

  • Proficiency in CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks, Fusion 360) for part design and fabrication.
  • Basic knowledge of communication protocols (RS232, I2C, CAN bus) and common embedded firmware concepts.
  • Hands-on experience with 3D printing, basic machining, and electronics assembly.
  • Strong problem-solving mindset and eagerness to take on new challenges in a fast-paced startup environment.
  • Experience with aluminum extrusions, sheet metal design, and CNC manufacturing.
  • Familiarity with ROS/ROS2 and basic robotics concepts.
  • Prior experience assembling robots, drones, or other complex mechatronics systems.
  • This role requires shifting working schedules and travelling in different US cities from time to time.