Embedded Software Engineer

Job Title: Embedded Software Engineer

Job Description

We are seeking an Embedded Software Engineer to support mission-critical RF programs. This role involves developing and integrating C++ embedded software on real-time operating systems within an Agile, lab-based engineering environment. The candidate will work hands-on through the full software lifecycle-requirements, design, coding, testing, and hardware integration-while collaborating with cross-functional engineering teams to deliver high-reliability defense systems.

Responsibilities

• Develop and integrate C++ embedded software on real-time operating systems.

• Work through the full software lifecycle including requirements, design, coding, testing, and hardware integration.

• Collaborate with cross-functional engineering teams to deliver high-reliability defense systems.

• Perform testing, debugging, and software integration on hardware in a lab environment.

• Utilize Agile workflows and tools such as Jira, Git, or similar for software development.

Essential Skills

• Bachelor's degree with 8 years of experience, Master's with 6 years, or equivalent experience.

• Strong C++ / Object-Oriented Programming skills.

• Experience developing embedded software on Linux or other RTOS.

• Hands-on experience in a lab environment: testing, debugging, and integrating software on hardware.

• Familiarity with Agile development and tools such as Jira, Git, or similar.

• Scripting experience in Python, Bash, etc.

• U.S. Citizenship and the ability to obtain a Secret clearance.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Experience with C++11.

• Strong debugging and integration skills on embedded targets.

• Experience with multi-threaded or distributed embedded systems.

• Active Secret clearance.

• Experience with SPs or ARM cores embedded in FPGAs/SoCs.

Work Environment

This position involves working in a team environment alongside other team members in similar roles. The role requires onsite presence 5 days a week due to working on cleared projects and accessing government-cleared servers. Candidates are expected to be proficient with C++ and object-oriented design principles from day one and should be self-sufficient. Lab work is required to validate the code being written.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract position based out of Chicago, IL.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $55.00 - $75.00/hr.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: - Medical, dental & vision - Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital - 401(k) Retirement Plan - Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available - Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) - Short and long-term disability - Health Spending Account (HSA) - Transportation benefits - Employee Assistance Program - Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in Chicago,IL.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Jun 4, 2026.

About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 30,000 consultants and more than 4,500 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email View email address on click.appcast.io for other accommodation options.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI): We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.