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Freelance Embedded Firmware Engineer Jobs in Markham, IL

ITW Avery Weigh-Tronix

Embedded Software Engineer

IL

$135K - $178K/yr

... and firmware. • Diagnose issues related to startup behavior, communication failures, timing ... in embedded programming languages (e.g., C/C++), version control (Git/Github) and real-time ...

Sterling Engineering, Inc.

Be Seen First

Electrical Engineering Technician

Oak Brook, IL · On-site

$30 - $35/hr

Electrical Engineering Technician Location: Oak Brook, Onsite (occasional remote flexibility ... Experience supporting embedded systems and firmware updates We value hands-on experience and ...

Koch Industries

Sr. Mechatronics Engineer

Lisle, IL · On-site

$100K - $130K/yr

The engineer will own the detailed design of cold plates, active module integration geometry, and ... Implement and validate embedded control firmware performance for the active cooling electronics ...

Sterling Engineering Inc.

EE Technician

Oak Brook, IL · On-site

$30 - $35/hr

Experience supporting embedded systems and firmware updates * Experience working in a fast-paced engineering development environment We value hands-on technical experience and will consider qualified ...

Ascend Engineering

Autonomy Engineer (UAV)

Chicago, IL · On-site

$110 - $150/hr

You'll work across the full UAV stack, from embedded flight software and state estimation through ... Develop and modify PX4 or ArduPilot firmware to support new autonomy features and system ...

Ascend Engineering

Autonomy Engineer (UAV)

Chicago, IL · On-site

$130K - $180K/yr

You'll work across the full UAV stack, from embedded flight software and state estimation through ... Develop and modify PX4 or ArduPilot firmware to support new autonomy features and system ...

OceanComm, Inc.

Electrical Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$90K - $130K/yr

You will work closely with experienced electrical, embedded software, signal processing, and ... Develop test setups and write simple scripts or firmware to support hardware testing * Debug ...

OceanComm, Inc.

Electrical Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$90K - $130K/yr

You will work closely with experienced electrical, embedded software, signal processing, and ... Develop test setups and write simple scripts or firmware to support hardware testing * Debug ...

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All JobsEmbedded Firmware Engineer JobsFreelance Embedded Firmware Engineer JobsFreelance Embedded Firmware Engineer Jobs in Markham, IL

Freelance Embedded Firmware Engineer information

See Markham, IL salary details

$69.6K

$115.5K

$155.3K

How much do freelance embedded firmware engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for freelance embedded firmware engineer in Markham, IL is $115,528.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $97,500.00 and $133,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a freelance embedded firmware engineer do?

A Freelance Embedded Firmware Engineer designs, develops, and tests low-level software (firmware) that controls hardware devices. They often work on projects such as microcontroller programming, developing drivers, or integrating sensors and peripherals in embedded systems. As freelancers, they typically work with multiple clients, providing expertise in areas like C/C++ programming, hardware interfacing, and debugging. Their role is crucial in making electronic devices function efficiently and reliably.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a freelance embedded firmware engineer?

To thrive as a Freelance Embedded Firmware Engineer, you need strong expertise in C/C++ programming, microcontroller architectures, and embedded systems design, usually supported by a degree in electrical engineering, computer engineering, or a related field. Familiarity with debugging tools, version control systems (like Git), real-time operating systems (RTOS), and relevant industry certifications such as ARM or IoT certifications is often required. Excellent problem-solving, self-management, and client communication skills are crucial for coordinating projects and delivering solutions independently. These abilities are essential to meet client expectations, deliver robust firmware solutions, and succeed in a highly technical and autonomous work environment.

What are some common challenges faced by freelance embedded firmware engineers when working with remote clients?

Freelance embedded firmware engineers often encounter challenges such as aligning on hardware specifications without physical access, navigating diverse toolchains or development environments, and ensuring clear communication across time zones. Managing expectations and maintaining thorough documentation is key, especially when troubleshooting or delivering updates remotely. Building trust with clients requires proactive status reporting, flexibility in accommodating client workflows, and strong problem-solving skills to address unforeseen hardware or integration issues.

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

AspectFreelance Embedded Firmware EngineerEmbedded Software Developer
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in electrical engineering, computer engineering, or related fields; certifications like ARM or embedded systems courses are commonSimilar credentials; often holds degrees in computer science or electrical engineering; certifications in embedded systems are beneficial
Work EnvironmentIndependent, project-based work often remote; collaborates with multiple clientsUsually employed by a company; works in office or remote teams
Industry UsageFreelance embedded firmware engineers are hired for specific projects in IoT, consumer electronics, or automotive sectorsEmbedded software developers are employed across industries like aerospace, medical devices, and consumer electronics

In summary, Freelance Embedded Firmware Engineers work independently on specific projects, often remotely, focusing on firmware development for embedded systems. Embedded Software Developers are typically employed by companies, working within teams to develop software for embedded devices across various industries.

Are freelance embedded firmware engineers in demand?

Freelance embedded firmware engineers are in high demand due to the growth of IoT devices, consumer electronics, and industrial automation. Skills in C/C++, real-time operating systems, and experience with hardware integration increase employability, with many opportunities available for remote and contract work across various industries.

How much do freelance embedded firmware engineers make?

Freelance embedded firmware engineers typically earn between $50 and $150 per hour, depending on experience, project complexity, and location. Senior engineers with specialized skills in microcontrollers, real-time operating systems, or hardware integration may command higher rates, especially for long-term or complex projects.

What cities near Markham, IL are hiring for Freelance Embedded Firmware Engineer jobs?

Cities near Markham, IL with the most Freelance Embedded Firmware Engineer job openings:

Freelance Embedded Firmware Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Freelance Embedded Firmware Engineer job openings in Markham, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $115,528 per year, or $55.5 per hour.

Embedded Software Engineer, DSP

OceanComm, Inc.

Chicago, IL • On-site

$90 - $150/hr

Other

PTO

Posted 12 days ago

Job description

Underwater communication is one of the hardest wireless problems on Earth. Radio waves attenuate quickly underwater, so our systems use sound, much like whales and dolphins, to transmit high-bandwidth data, including video. We are looking for engineers excited by challenging embedded DSP problems where algorithms, firmware, electronics, mechanics, and real-world operating conditions all have to work together.

This is a high-ownership role on a small, quickly growing team. You will not be one engineer among hundreds working on a narrow subsystem; you will have direct visibility into the full product, from modem firmware and acoustic signal processing to undersea drones and customer deployments.

About Us

Underwater, the wireless transfer of a single picture used to take an hour. OceanComm brought to market wireless modems that transfer data 100 to 1,000 times faster. Legacy modems were largely status and command links; our modems can control undersea drones with live video feedback, fundamentally changing what operators can see, decide, and do underwater. Leading organizations in defense, offshore energy and oceanographic research rely on OceanComm to keep their undersea systems connected.

What You Will Do
  • Develop and maintain real-time embedded C/C++ code, including for core components of OceanComm’s acoustic modem firmware, owning features from concept through deployment
  • Implement, optimize, and validate advanced acoustic signal processing algorithms
  • Collaborate with electrical, mechanical, systems, and field teams to define interfaces and verify system performance
  • Develop tests, tools, and procedures for firmware validation, hardware bring-up, production test, troubleshooting, and repair
  • Keep up to date with emerging technologies and research in relevant fields to help inform engineering and design decisions
  • Help improve engineering culture, communication, and technical standards as the team grows
  • B.S. or M.S. in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering or a related discipline, with 0-5 years of relevant experience
  • Strong C/C++ skills and familiarity with assembly-level debugging/optimization
  • Strong foundation in linear algebra and digital signal processing, including filters and transforms
  • Experience drafting technical documentation
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills
  • Willingness to travel, with occasional periods up to 20% depending on project phase
  • U.S. Person
What Will Put You Ahead
  • Experience deploying DSP and/or machine-learning algorithms on resource-constrained embedded platforms
  • Familiarity with FPGA development and hardware description languages such as VHDL
  • Experience with analog and mixed-signal integrated circuits, e.g., low-noise amplifiers, analog-to-digital converters, and analog front ends
  • Familiarity with sonar and/or undersea technology
  • Competitive base salary and incentive stock options
  • Paid vacation starting at 20 days per year, increasing with tenure
  • Paid sick leave with carryover
  • Flexible schedule with core hours
  • Close mentorship and training from experienced engineers and technical leaders
  • Professional development support for conferences, books, courses, or technical training
  • Hands-on work with advanced acoustic, embedded, and undersea robotics hardware
Compensation

The pay range for this position is $90,000 - $150,000 per year. Actual pay will depend on the candidate’s experience and skill demonstrated during interviews and other evaluations.

OceanComm is an Equal Opportunity Employer, including disability/vet.

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