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Contract Embedded Software Engineer Jobs in Denver, CO

Staff Embedded Software Engineer

Arvada, CO

$134K - $177K/yr

Collaborate with hardware and systems engineers to integrate software with embedded platforms * Assistwith system integration, testing, and validation, including simulation and hardware-in-the-loop ...

As an Aerospace Software Apps Engineer III, you will have hands on development responsibility to build and test real-time embedded software that controls rocket engines for human capable spacecraft.

As an Embedded Software Engineer III on the Blue Ring program, you will be at the forefront of developing and testing flight software for one of the most capable and maneuverable multi-mission ...

Showing results 41-60

Contract Embedded Software Engineer information

See Denver, CO salary details

$72K

$157.9K

$179.1K

How much do contract embedded software engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for contract embedded software engineer in Denver, CO is $157,874.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $135,400.00 and $178,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a contract embedded software engineer?

A Contract Embedded Software Engineer is a professional hired on a temporary or project basis to design, develop, and optimize software for embedded systems. These engineers work with microcontrollers, processors, and real-time operating systems (RTOS) to create software that operates hardware devices efficiently. They often specialize in industries like automotive, medical devices, aerospace, or consumer electronics. Contract roles can vary in duration and scope, offering flexibility and opportunities to work on diverse projects.

What are typical day-to-day responsibilities for a contract embedded software engineer?

As a Contract Embedded Software Engineer, your daily tasks often include writing and debugging embedded code, integrating software solutions with hardware components, and working closely with hardware engineers to meet project requirements. You'll participate in code reviews, documentation, and sometimes testing or troubleshooting hardware-software interactions. Communication with project managers and cross-functional teams is also common to ensure project milestones and deadlines are met. This variety allows you to apply your technical expertise while gaining experience across different industries and applications.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the contract embedded software engineer position?

To thrive as a Contract Embedded Software Engineer, you need strong skills in C/C++ programming, embedded systems development, debugging, and a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with microcontrollers, real-time operating systems (RTOS), hardware interfaces, and tools like oscilloscopes or JTAG debuggers is often required, and certifications such as Certified Embedded Systems Engineer can be beneficial. Excellent problem-solving, adaptability, and communication skills help you collaborate on diverse projects and meet tight contract deadlines. These abilities are crucial for delivering reliable, high-quality embedded software solutions in a fast-paced and dynamic work environment.

What are the most commonly searched types of Embedded Software Engineer jobs in Denver, CO?

The most popular types of Embedded Software Engineer jobs in Denver, CO are:

What job categories do people searching Contract Embedded Software Engineer jobs in Denver, CO look for?

The top searched job categories for Contract Embedded Software Engineer jobs in Denver, CO are:

What cities near Denver, CO are hiring for Contract Embedded Software Engineer jobs?

Cities near Denver, CO with the most Contract Embedded Software Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Contract Embedded Software Engineer job openings in Denver, CO as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $157,874 per year, or $75.9 per hour.

Staff Embedded Software Engineer - Middleware

Lunar Outpost, Inc.

Arvada, CO • On-site

$137K - $180K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 22 hours ago


Job description

Are you passionate about shaping the future of humanity's presence in space? Lunar Outpost, an industry leader in space robotics and planetary vehicles, invites you to join our team! Lunar Outpost is dedicated to creating a permanent presence in space, while also driving positive impacts here on Earth. Currently, we are seeking a Staff Embedded Software Engineer - Middleware to contribute to our mission in a dynamic startup environment. The main responsibility of the Staff Embedded Software Engineer- Middleware is to act as a subject matter expert in developing Linux Kernels for advanced space robotic applications. They will lead kernel development efforts and mentor engineers on best practices, ensuring the system meets stringent safety and reliability requirements for crewed and autonomous space operations.
Take the #NextLeap with Lunar Outpost and work on the Pegasus LTV, which will carry NASA astronauts farther than they've ever been before on the lunar surface!
Key Responsibilities:
  • Serve as the technical authority for kernel configuration and deployment on a robotics-based avionics platforms
  • Design, implement, integrate and maintain kernel-based software for space avionics
  • Perform board bring-up for new avionics hardware, including processor initialization, bootloader configuration, and peripheral driver development
  • Implement task scheduling, memory partitioning, and time partitioning in alignment with mission safety standards
  • Develop and integrate device drivers for rover avionics subsystems
  • Collaborate with systems, hardware, and robotics teams to define and implement fault-tolerant operating system configurations
  • Support hardware/software integration using engineering models, simulators and hardware-in-the-loop testbeds
  • Document OS configuration, integration steps, operational procedures to flight-certifiable standards

Required Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's degree in computer or electrical engineering or related field
  • 5+ years in embedded software or avionics systems for space or mission-critical robotics applications
  • 3+ in Linux kernel setup, configuration and BSP customization
  • Hands-on board bring-up experience for avionics or robotics hardware
  • Strong proficiency in C for embedded system development
  • Experience with real-time debugging, timing analysis and performance optimization
  • Experience working with SPI, RS485/422, ADCs, Spacewire
  • Experience with deterministic networking, symmetric multiprocessors (SMP) and safety-critical software architecture
  • Self-motivated, focused, and driven to meet critical deadlines
  • Excellent organization and time management skills
  • Excellent written and oral communication skills
  • U.S. Person

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Prior work with crewed vehicle avionics architecture or planetary robotics
  • Time-sensitive Networking (TSN) protocol configuration and validation for deterministic ethernet
  • Experience working with NASA core flight system (cFS)
  • Familiarity with space mission development phases and associated documentation and standards
  • Experience with VxWorks 7 DKMs and RTPs
  • Experience with OCI containerization

Compensation & Benefits: Compensation level and base salary are competitively structured and thoughtfully determined based on factors such as relevant skills, experience, education, and the scope of the role.
  • Comprehensive health coverage: Medical, dental, and vision benefits, with 70% of premiums covered by the employer
  • Paid time off: Three (3) weeks per year of vacation
  • Retirement plan: Up to 4% employer match on 401(k) contributions
  • Paid holidays: 11 company-recognized holidays
  • Parental leave
  • Educational reimbursement opportunities to support company objectives, continued learning, and career development

Lunar Outpost Inc. is an equal opportunity employer. Lunar Outpost Inc. does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, sexual orientation, and gender identity), national origin, ethnicity, age, disability, veteran status, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. All employees, including executives and human resources personnel, are expected to conduct themselves with professionalism and treat others with dignity and respect in accordance with this policy.