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Freelance Simulation Software Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL

S&C

Software Engineer III

Chicago, IL · On-site

$106K - $140K/yr

Join Our Team as a Software Engineer III! As a Software Engineer III , you'll be crucial in ... Perform FPGA simulation, verification, and timing analyses using vendor-specific tools (e.g ...

Sotera Health

Industrial Controls Software Engineer

Oak Brook, IL · On-site

$45.75 - $58.25/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

An experienced Industrial Controls Software Engineer with strong technical depth, hands-on ... CI/CD, Git workflows, simulation, containers, automated testing for controls * Knowledge of IEC ...

DRW

Research Engineer (FICCO)

Chicago, IL · On-site

As a Research Engineer, you will work closely with a systematic trading team to implement research studies, develop algorithms, and design software for trading strategy simulations. Responsibilities ...

DRW

Software Developer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$225K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

As a Software Developer at DRW, you will be an integral member of a dynamic team of technologists ... Trading strategy simulation software optimized for distributed computation * Large scale data ...

HERE Technologies

Sr. Software Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$130K - $140K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

We are hiring a Senior Software Engineer to build AI platform and production systems that support advanced computer vision, perception, simulation, and mapping products. This person will own the ...

HERE Technologies

Sr. Software Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$130K - $140K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

We are hiring a Senior Software Engineer to build AI platform and production systems that support advanced computer vision, perception, simulation, and mapping products. This person will own the ...

HERE Technologies

Sr. Software Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$130K - $140K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

We are hiring a Senior Software Engineer to build AI platform and production systems that support advanced computer vision, perception, simulation, and mapping products. This person will own the ...

HERE Technologies

Sr. Software Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$130K - $140K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

We are hiring a Senior Simulation Engineer to own core simulation and geospatial systems that support advanced AI, perception, and mapping products. This person will work across simulation ...

HERE Technologies

Sr. Software Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$130K - $140K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

We are hiring a Senior Simulation Engineer to own core simulation and geospatial systems that support advanced AI, perception, and mapping products. This person will work across simulation ...

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All JobsSimulation Software Engineer JobsFreelance Simulation Software Engineer JobsFreelance Simulation Software Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL

Freelance Simulation Software Engineer information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$76.2K

$142K

$202.9K

How much do freelance simulation software engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for freelance simulation software engineer in Chicago, IL is $142,001.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $107,100.00 and $166,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To excel as a Freelance Simulation Software Engineer, you need strong programming skills (such as C++, Python, or MATLAB), a solid understanding of simulation methodologies, and a relevant degree in engineering, computer science, or a related field. Familiarity with industry-standard simulation tools like Simulink, ANSYS, or Arena, and experience with version control systems are often required. Outstanding problem-solving abilities, self-motivation, and effective client communication distinguish top performers in this freelance role. These competencies enable the engineer to deliver accurate, efficient simulations and manage projects independently, ensuring client satisfaction and professional growth.

What are some common challenges faced by freelance simulation software engineers when managing multiple client projects?

Freelance Simulation Software Engineers often juggle several projects at once, each with unique technical requirements and deadlines. Balancing these projects can be challenging, especially when clients have shifting priorities or last-minute requests. Effective communication, clear project scoping, and robust time management are crucial to ensure client expectations are met while maintaining high-quality work. Additionally, freelancers must stay updated with the latest simulation tools and standards, which can require continuous self-directed learning.

What is the difference between Freelance Simulation Software Engineer vs Simulation Software Developer?

AspectFreelance Simulation Software EngineerSimulation Software Developer
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in computer science, engineering, or related fields; certifications are a plusSimilar educational background; certifications may enhance prospects
Work EnvironmentIndependent, project-based work often remotely or freelance platformsEmployed by companies or organizations, working in office or remote teams
Employer & Industry UsageClients across various industries like aerospace, automotive, defense; freelance platformsCompanies developing simulation software or using simulation tools internally
Search & Comparison IntentLooking for freelance opportunities or project-based work in simulation softwareSeeking full-time or contract roles within organizations

The main difference is that a Freelance Simulation Software Engineer works independently on diverse projects, often remotely, while a Simulation Software Developer is typically employed by a company to develop and maintain simulation software as part of a team.

What does a freelance simulation software engineer do?

A Freelance Simulation Software Engineer designs, develops, and tests simulation software for various industries, such as aerospace, automotive, healthcare, or manufacturing. They work independently or on contract to model real-world systems, create virtual environments, and run simulations to analyze system behaviors. Responsibilities often include coding, debugging, optimizing algorithms, and collaborating with clients to meet project requirements. Freelancers typically manage their own schedules and work with multiple clients, offering flexibility and a diverse range of project experiences.

What are the most commonly searched types of Simulation Software Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Simulation Software Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What are popular job titles related to Freelance Simulation Software Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Freelance Simulation Software Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Freelance Simulation Software Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Freelance Simulation Software Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL are:

Freelance Simulation Software Engineer jobs near you

Software Engineer III

S&C

Chicago, IL • On-site

$106K - $140K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 12 days ago

Job description


As an S&C Electric team member, you'll work on projects that have real-world impact. You'll help transform the grid for resilient and reliable power worldwide. S&C has more than a 100-year history of innovation and has been 100% employee-owned since 2012. We continue this legacy as a trusted, forward-thinking leader in the electrical industry. You will advance a safer, more reliable, and more resilient electrical grid. Our products help the grid adapt to severe weather and transition to clean energy. We're big enough to be a respected industry leader but small enough for you to impact our company directly. Our commitment gives you opportunities to impact on and off the job positively.
Join S&C to make an impact on tomorrow's energy challenges and become an employee-owner!
Hours
8:00 am - 5:00 pm (Mon-Fri) Hybrid
Compensation
At S&C, we are dedicated to providing competitive and equitable compensation for all our team members, and we are committed to transparency in our pay practices. The estimated annual base salary range for this position in the United States is $106,073 - $140,549. Individual pay within this salary range is determined by several compensable factors, including performance, knowledge, job-related skills and experience, and relevant education or training. This role is also eligible for S&C's annual incentive plan (AIP), subject to eligibility criteria.
Join Our Team as a Software Engineer III!
As a Software Engineer III, you'll be crucial in ensuring smooth operations and supporting our diverse team. S&C Electric, a global leader for power reliability products is looking for a Software Engineer III. Included in this position is the support of intelligent embedded software devices including microprocessor-based switch and fault interrupting controls. Candidates must have a strong background in design and development of embedded software on custom electronics.
Key Responsibilities:
  • Design embedded application firmware for microprocessor-based switch and fault interrupting controls.
  • Contribute to the development of architecture design, software specifications, project schedules, task and project completion time estimates, and test plans.
  • Develop, optimize, and build FPGA-based (Verilog) focusing on high-throughput data, timing, and efficient resource utilization.
  • Perform FPGA simulation, verification, and timing analyses using vendor-specific tools (e.g., Lattice Diamond, Microchip Libero).
  • Develop embedded C/C++ firmware for low power designs, including hardware device drivers.
  • Develop and support PC-based engineering test tools as needed.
  • Create, execute, and automate unit tests.
  • Review and implement product requirements.
  • Participate in Agile scrum and Kanban meetings and peer reviews of source code.
  • Investigate new technologies and create design documents as necessary.
  • Collaborate with hardware engineers to meet system-level performance and reliability requirements and test engineers to support verification and validation of products at the module and system level.
  • Work with product management and field services to resolve firmware-related customer issues.
  • Occasional travel (5%) to one of these locations may be required for development, system integration/testing, and debugging. In this position, you will report to the Embedded Firmware Manager.

What You'll Need to Succeed:
Requirements:
  • BS degree in Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or equivalent.
  • 5-7 years of experience developing C/C++ firmware applications and device drivers for low power designs.
  • 3+ years of professional experience developing FPGA designs in VHDL or Verilog, with experience in simulation, verification, and timing analysis, using tools like Lattice Diamond or Microchip Libero.
  • Strong understanding of FPGA architecture, timing constraints, and resource utilization.
  • Demonstrated working knowledge of programming principles in C/C++.
  • Familiarity with real-time operation and low power microprocessor modes.
  • Embedded software development experience with and without an operating system.
  • Experience with digital multimeters, oscilloscopes, and logic analyzers to validate and debug design behavior.
  • Experience working with and writing drivers for common peripherals and interconnects, such as GPIO, I2C, SPI, ADC, DAC, UART, DMA, or flash memory.
  • Experience with configuration management/process tools: Jira, Confluence, Bitbucket/Git.
  • Experience using generative AI tools, such as Github Copilot, to assist productivity.
  • Being a team player is essential.
  • Excellent written and verbal communications skills.
  • Technical leadership abilities with good interpersonal skills.
  • Continuous learner and self-starter.

Preferred:
  • Experience with signal processing (FFT, DFT, waveform analysis) and actuator/motor control.
  • Experience with embedded Linux, Zephyr, or other real time operating systems.
  • Experience with Jenkins, Docker, and Python.
  • Experience in one or more of the following areas: electric grid automation and/or control for utility applications, peer-to-peer communications techniques, wired and wireless communications experience (Ethernet, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi).

S&C Electric is committed to equal-opportunity employment. All employees and applicants will be considered without regard to age, color, disability, gender, national origin, race, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, protected veteran status, or any other classification protected by federal, state, or local law. If you are an individual with a disability and need an accommodation to complete the application, please email us at TAsupport@sandc.com.
No fixed deadline
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