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Freelance Embedded System Software Engineer Jobs in Washington, IL

ARi

Sr. Embedded Software Engineer (C++ & MATLAB)

Peoria, IL · On-site

$90K - $110K/yr

Translate system requirements into software design and implementation. Perform software integration ... Required Skills Strong programming skills in Embedded C and C++. Experience with C Test and Google ...

RFA Engineering

Embedded Software Engineer

Chillicothe, IL · On-site

$75K - $115K/yr

Embedded Software Engineer This position is associated with the design and development of embedded ... Collaborate with electrical, systems, validation, and manufacturing teams to ensure successful ...

RFA Engineering

Embedded Software Engineer

East Peoria, IL · On-site

$75K - $115K/yr

Embedded Software Engineer This position is associated with the design and development of embedded ... Collaborate with electrical, systems, validation, and manufacturing teams to ensure successful ...

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All JobsEmbedded System Software Engineer JobsFreelance Embedded System Software Engineer JobsFreelance Embedded System Software Engineer Jobs in Washington, IL

Freelance Embedded System Software Engineer information

See Washington, IL salary details

$66K

$144.7K

$164.1K

How much do freelance embedded system software engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for freelance embedded system software engineer in Washington, IL is $144,666.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $124,000.00 and $163,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a freelance embedded system software engineer do?

A Freelance Embedded System Software Engineer designs, develops, and tests software that runs on embedded systems, which are specialized computing systems within larger devices like cars, appliances, or industrial machines. They typically work independently or on a contract basis, collaborating with clients to understand requirements and deliver customized software solutions. Their responsibilities often include writing low-level code, optimizing for performance and memory usage, and troubleshooting hardware-software integration issues.

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

To thrive as a Freelance Embedded System Software Engineer, you need a solid background in embedded C/C++ programming, microcontroller architecture, and real-time operating systems, often supported by a degree in electrical engineering or computer science. Familiarity with hardware debugging tools, version control systems (like Git), and development platforms such as ARM, AVR, or PIC is typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, self-motivation, and clear client communication help freelancers stand out in this role. These competencies ensure reliable, efficient solutions and successful project delivery in dynamic and client-driven environments.

How do freelance embedded system software engineers typically manage project scope and communication with clients?

Freelance embedded system software engineers often work independently or as part of small remote teams, making clear communication and project scope management essential. They regularly use project management tools and set milestones to clarify deliverables and timelines with clients. Addressing technical constraints and hardware integration challenges early in the process helps avoid misunderstandings. Frequent status updates and transparent discussions about changes or obstacles ensure projects stay on track and meet client expectations.

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

AspectFreelance Embedded System Software EngineerEmbedded Firmware Developer
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in electrical engineering, computer science, or related fields; certifications are optionalSimilar educational background; certifications like Certified Embedded Systems Engineer can be advantageous
Work EnvironmentIndependent, project-based work often remote; collaborates with multiple clientsUsually employed by a company or works on in-house projects; may work on-site or remotely
Industry UsageUsed across various industries including IoT, automotive, consumer electronicsPrimarily in product development, consumer electronics, automotive, and industrial systems

Both roles require embedded programming skills and knowledge of hardware. The main difference lies in the work setting: Freelance Embedded System Software Engineers work independently on diverse projects, while Embedded Firmware Developers are often employed by companies focusing on firmware development for specific products.

What cities near Washington, IL are hiring for Freelance Embedded System Software Engineer jobs?

Cities near Washington, IL with the most Freelance Embedded System Software Engineer job openings:

Freelance Embedded System Software Engineer jobs near you

Embedded Software Engineer - Perception Systems (C++/Linux)

ARi

Peoria, IL • On-site

$85K - $90K/yr

Other

Re-posted yesterday

Job description

We are seeking Embedded Software Engineer – Perception Systems (C++/Linux)


Embedded Software Engineer – Perception Systems (C++/Linux)

Location: Peoria IL (Onsite)

Job Type: Full-Time

Salary: $85000- $90000 per year


Duties & Responsibilities

  • Design, develop, integrate, and test embedded software for safety-critical machine applications with a focus on camera and radar-based perception systems.
  • Develop high-performance embedded applications using C++ on Linux platforms.
  • Design, implement, and optimize radar and camera data processing pipelines for perception and autonomous machine functionality.
  • Integrate perception software with embedded hardware, sensors, and machine control systems.
  • Debug, troubleshoot, and resolve software, hardware, and system-level issues using industry-standard debugging tools.
  • Develop and execute software validation plans, including integration, functional, regression, and system-level testing.
  • Collaborate with systems, machine controls, validation, and global engineering teams throughout the software development lifecycle.
  • Improve software performance, scalability, stability, and reliability through continuous optimization.
  • Participate in software architecture discussions, code reviews, and technical design reviews.
  • Support source control, software releases, and configuration management using Git and modern development practices.

Required Skills

Required Technical Skills

  • Strong proficiency in C/C++ programming and object-oriented software design.
  • Experience developing embedded software on Linux platforms.
  • Hands-on experience with camera and radar data processing.
  • Experience with embedded communication protocols such as CAN and Ethernet.
  • Strong system-level debugging and troubleshooting skills.
  • Experience using Git, compilers, debuggers, and software development tools.
  • Knowledge of software integration, validation, and testing methodologies.

Preferred Technical Skills

  • NVIDIA development ecosystem (CUDA, TensorRT, Jetson, DRIVE platform).
  • GStreamer and multimedia pipeline development.
  • Experience with robotics, autonomous systems, perception, or sensor fusion.
  • Experience with unit testing frameworks such as Google Test (GTest) or C Test.
  • Familiarity with real-time embedded systems and safety-critical software development.

Education & Experience

  • Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Computer Engineering, Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Robotics, or a related technical discipline.
  • 5+ years of experience developing embedded software using C++ in Linux environments.
  • Experience developing software for embedded, robotics, autonomous, automotive, or industrial machine applications is preferred.

Top 3 Skills

  1. Embedded C/C++ software development on Linux.
  2. Camera and radar perception processing.
  3. Embedded system integration, debugging, and troubleshooting.

Soft Skills

Required

  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
  • Excellent verbal and written communication.
  • Ability to work effectively in a collaborative, cross-functional, and global engineering environment.
  • Self-motivated with strong organizational and time management skills.

Preferred

  • Experience leading technical discussions and mentoring junior engineers.
  • Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced product development environment.


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About ARi

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Industrial machinery manufacturing

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

East Peoria, IL, US

Year founded

2006

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