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Virtual Software Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Data Engineer

Chicago, IL · Hybrid

$118K - $141K/yr

Bachelor s degree * 3+ years of experience as a data analyst, data engineer, software engineer ... Ability to write and optimize python for custom data pipeline code (virtual environments, scripts ...

Data Analytics Engineer

Chicago, IL · Hybrid

$118K - $141K/yr

... analyst, data engineer, software engineer, data scientist, financial risk analyst, business ... Ability to write and optimize python for custom data pipeline code (virtual environments, scripts ...

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Virtual Software Engineer information

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$152K

$211.7K

How much do virtual software engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for virtual software engineer in Chicago, IL is $151,971.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $123,600.00 and $178,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Virtual Software Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Virtual Software Engineer, you need strong programming skills, a solid understanding of software development methodologies, and a relevant degree in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with version control systems like Git, cloud platforms such as AWS or Azure, and proficiency in popular programming languages is typically required. Excellent communication, time management, and self-motivation are crucial soft skills for remote collaboration and productivity. These skills and qualities are important to ensure efficient code delivery, effective teamwork, and adaptability in remote or distributed work environments.

What is the difference between Virtual Software Engineer vs Remote Software Developer?

AspectVirtual Software EngineerRemote Software Developer
CredentialsBachelor's in CS or related field, possibly certificationsBachelor's in CS or related field, possibly certifications
Work EnvironmentRemote, often part of a distributed teamRemote, often part of a distributed team
Industry UsageTech companies, startups, consulting firmsTech companies, startups, consulting firms
Job FocusDesigning, developing, testing software solutionsDeveloping, maintaining software applications

Both Virtual Software Engineers and Remote Software Developers work remotely in tech environments, often sharing similar credentials and industry usage. The main difference lies in the job scope: Virtual Software Engineers may focus more on system architecture and high-level design, while Remote Software Developers typically concentrate on coding and implementation. However, these roles often overlap, and the titles are used interchangeably depending on the company.

What is a Virtual Software Engineer?

A Virtual Software Engineer is a professional who designs, develops, tests, and maintains software applications while working remotely rather than from a traditional office setting. They use online collaboration tools, version control systems, and cloud platforms to work with team members and manage projects virtually. This role requires strong technical skills, self-motivation, and effective communication to deliver high-quality software solutions from any location.

How do Virtual Software Engineers typically collaborate with remote teams to ensure project success?

Virtual Software Engineers often work closely with distributed teams using collaboration tools like Slack, Jira, and GitHub. Regular video meetings, clear documentation, and agile methodologies help keep everyone aligned despite differing time zones. Successful engineers proactively communicate progress, ask clarifying questions, and participate in code reviews to maintain project momentum. Building strong virtual relationships and being adaptable are key to thriving in this environment.
What are the most commonly searched types of Software Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Software Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What are popular job titles related to Virtual Software Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL? For Virtual Software Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Virtual Software Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Virtual Software Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL are:
Principal Software Engineer - Embedded Cybersecurity (Onsite)

Principal Software Engineer - Embedded Cybersecurity (Onsite)

Collins Aerospace

Chicago, IL

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 18 days ago


Collins Aerospace rating

8.5

Company rating: 8.5 out of 10

Based on 243 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

22nd of 60 rated aerospace companies


Job description

Date Posted:

2026-05-15

Country:

United States of America

Location:

US-IA-CEDAR RAPIDS-137 ~ 855 35Th St NE ~ BLDG 137

Position Role Type:

Onsite

U.S. Citizen, U.S. Person, or Immigration Status Requirements:

The ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. government issued security clearance is required.​ U.S. citizenship is required, as only U.S. citizens are eligible for a security clearance

Security Clearance Type:

DoD Clearance: Secret

Security Clearance Status:

Active and existing security clearance required after day 1

At the forefront of innovation, our Crypto team within the Secure Mission Solutions directorate is pioneering advanced embedded cryptographic capabilities for U.S. military communications products. By collaborating closely with the NSA, we ensure that our military communications are both secure and trustworthy.

As a Principal Software Engineer, you will play a crucial role in leading the design, development, integration, and verification of our embedded encryption algorithms. Your expertise in C++, Python, and embedded Linux will enable you to drive impactful projects and mentor other engineers, shaping the next generation of secure communications technology.

While knowledge of secure systems, secure software development, or cryptographic applications is advantageous, it’s not a strict requirement. Experience in an Agile environment is also preferred.

Join us and be part of a team that is not just building technology but actively shaping the future of secure military communications. Your contributions will make a significant difference. Are you ready to take on this exciting challenge?

What YOU will do:

  • Champion Software Development and Integration: Lead the architecture and evolution of a multi-threaded embedded C++ product codebase, setting the standard for innovation and excellence at the forefront of technology.

  • Architect Cutting-Edge Embedded Solutions: Spearhead the design and development of advanced embedded cryptographic solutions and communications products, ensuring they align with long-term strategic goals and industry standards.

  • Steer Project Success: Collaborate with cross-functional teams to define comprehensive requirements, oversee software implementation, and drive test case development, verification test execution, and certification processes.

  • Mentor and Inspire: Cultivate a high-performing engineering culture by mentoring and empowering software developers, enhancing technical expertise and promoting best practices for process improvement.

  • Elevate Security and Reliability: Take a proactive role in shaping products that significantly enhance the security and reliability of critical communications systems, influencing best practices and guiding the direction of future innovations.

Qualifications You Must Have:

  • Typically requires a degree in Science, Technology, Engineering or Mathematics (STEM) and minimum 8 years prior relevant experience or an Advanced Degree in a related field and minimum 5 years of experience

  • Software development and integration experience embedded C and C++ product software.

  • Software development and integration experience on complex multi-threaded product software code bases.

  • Experience with standard full lifecycle software development practices and configuration management tools.

Qualifications We Prefer:

  • Knowledge and experience in embedded security software development and integration.

  • Comfortable working in a Linux development environment, with experience in mutexes, semaphores, queues, and inter-process communication.

  • Exposure to crypto algorithms and their implementation

  • Ability to mentor engineers on software development skills and practices.

  • Strong desire to collaborate in a team environment, with experience in Agile methodologies.

  • Proven track record of meeting project milestones and driving process efficiency improvements.

  • Experience leading teams and managing projects through the full software lifecycle.

  • Proficiency in scripting languages like Python and experience with IP networking and networking protocols.

What We Offer:

Some of our competitive benefits package includes: 

  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance

  • Three weeks of vacation for newly hired employees

  • Generous 401(k) plan that includes employer matching funds and separate employer retirement contribution, including a Lifetime Income Strategy option

  • Tuition reimbursement program

  • Student Loan Repayment Program

  • Life insurance and disability coverage

  • Optional coverages you can buy pet insurance, home and auto insurance, additional life and accident insurance, critical illness insurance, group legal, ID theft protection

  • Birth, adoption, parental leave benefits

  • Ovia Health, fertility, and family planning

  • Adoption Assistance         

  • Autism Benefit

  • Employee Assistance Plan, including up to 10 free counseling sessions

  • Healthy You Incentives, wellness rewards program

  • Doctor on Demand, virtual doctor visits

  • Bright Horizons, child and elder care services

  • Teladoc Medical Experts, second opinion program

  • Eligible for relocation

  • And more! 

Do you want to be a part of something bigger? A team whose impact stretches across the world, and even beyond? At Collins Aerospace, our Mission Systems team helps civilian, military and government customers complete their most complex missions — whatever and wherever they may be. Our customers depend on us for intelligent and secure communications, missionized systems for specialized aircraft and spacecraft and collaborative space solutions. By joining our team, you’ll have your own critical part to play in ensuring our customer succeeds today while anticipating their needs for tomorrow. Are you up for the challenge? Join our mission today. 

*Please ensure the role type (defined below) is appropriate for your needs before applying to this role.

Onsite: Employees who are working in Onsite roles will work primarily onsite. This includes all production and maintenance employees, as they are essential to the development of our products. 

At Collins, the paths we pave together lead to limitless possibility. And the bonds we form – with our customers and with each other -- propel us all higher, again and again.  

Apply now and be part of the team that’s redefining aerospace, every day.  

As part of our commitment to maintaining a secure hiring process, candidates may be asked to attend select steps of the interview process in-person at one of our office locations, regardless of whether the role is designated as on-site, hybrid or remote.

The salary range for this role is 107,500 USD - 204,500 USD. The salary range provided is a good faith estimate representative of all experience levels. RTX considers several factors when extending an offer, including but not limited to, the role, function and associated responsibilities, a candidate’s work experience, location, education/training, and key skills.Hired applicants may be eligible for benefits, including but not limited to, medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short-term disability, long-term disability, 401(k) match, flexible spending accounts, flexible work schedules, employee assistance program, Employee Scholar Program, parental leave, paid time off, and holidays. Specific benefits are dependent upon the specific business unit as well as whether or not the position is covered by a collective-bargaining agreement.Hired applicants may be eligible for annual short-term and/or long-term incentive compensation programs depending on the level of the position and whether or not it is covered by a collective-bargaining agreement. Payments under these annual programs are not guaranteed and are dependent upon a variety of factors including, but not limited to, individual performance, business unit performance, and/or the company’s performance.This role is a U.S.-based role. If the successful candidate resides in a U.S. territory, the appropriate pay structure and benefits will apply.RTX anticipates the application window closing approximately 40 days from the date the notice was posted. However, factors such as candidate flow and business necessity may require RTX to shorten or extend the application window.

RTX is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability or veteran status, or any other applicable state or federal protected class. RTX provides affirmative action in employment for qualified Individuals with a Disability and Protected Veterans in compliance with Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act and the Vietnam Era Veterans’ Readjustment Assistance Act.

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About Collins Aerospace

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Collins Aerospace, a Raytheon Technologies company, is a leader in technologically advanced and intelligent solutions for the global aerospace and defense industry. Collins Aerospace has the capabilities, comprehensive portfolio and expertise to solve customers' toughest challenges and to meet the demands of a rapidly evolving global market.

Industry

Aviation

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Charlotte, NC, US

Year founded

2018