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Contract Embedded Software Jobs in Madison, WI (NOW HIRING)

VP of Engineering

Verona, WI · On-site

$184.10K - $237.20K/yr

... contract scope. * Drive strategic initiatives, collaborate with cross-functional teams, and ... Familiarity with real time software operating systems (Linux, VxWorks). * Experience with embedded ...

C++ Tutor

Madison, WI · Remote

$40/hr

... embedded systems, and high-performance computing applications. * Curriculum Awareness & Adaptive ... Varsity Tutors does not contract in: Alaska, California, Colorado, Delaware, Hawaii, Maine, New ...

Contract Embedded Software information

See Madison, WI salary details

$70.5K

$154.6K

$175.3K

How much do contract embedded software jobs pay per year?

As of May 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for contract embedded software in Madison, WI is $154,553.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $132,500.00 and $174,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Contract Embedded Software job?

A Contract Embedded Software job involves developing, testing, and maintaining embedded systems software for a company on a temporary or project basis. Contractors typically work with microcontrollers, real-time operating systems (RTOS), and low-level programming languages like C or C++. These roles can vary in duration and may involve working remotely or onsite. Contract engineers often collaborate with hardware teams, follow specific project requirements, and ensure system reliability and performance.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Contract Embedded Software position, and why are they important?

To excel as a Contract Embedded Software professional, you need strong experience with programming languages like C or C++, real-time operating systems (RTOS), hardware interfacing, and a relevant degree in computer engineering or a related field. Familiarity with development tools such as JTAG debuggers, oscilloscopes, version control systems, and certifications like Certified Embedded Systems Engineer (CESE) are highly valued. Effective problem-solving, adaptability, and clear communication are important soft skills for collaborating with multidisciplinary teams and managing project-based work. These capabilities ensure you can deliver robust, efficient solutions within project timelines in dynamic, technology-driven environments.

What are typical challenges faced in a contract embedded software role?

Contract embedded software professionals often encounter challenges such as quickly adapting to new hardware platforms, integrating with legacy systems, and rapidly understanding diverse project requirements. Since contracts are often project-based, there may be limited time for onboarding, requiring strong self-motivation and efficient troubleshooting skills. Additionally, clear documentation and collaboration with hardware engineers or cross-functional teams are critical to ensure smooth system integration. These challenges can be rewarding, as they provide opportunities to develop broad technical expertise and experience a wide variety of products and industries.
What are the most commonly searched types of Embedded Software jobs in Madison, WI? The most popular types of Embedded Software jobs in Madison, WI are:
What job categories do people searching Contract Embedded Software jobs in Madison, WI look for? The top searched job categories for Contract Embedded Software jobs in Madison, WI are:
Electrical Engineer - Contract Manufacturing

Electrical Engineer - Contract Manufacturing

Pro-Active Engineering

Sun Prairie, WI

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 20 days ago


Job description

Summary
Pro-Active Engineering has an opening for an Electrical Engineer - Contract Manufacturing. To learn more about Pro-Active Engineering, check out our website at: www.proactivepcb.com. Because of ITAR requirements, sponsorship is not available for this position. U.S. citizenship is required for this role.
Job Summary
The position supports a diverse portfolio of customer programs by designing, developing, and validating electronic hardware across a wide range of technologies and applications. This role operates in a high-mix, fast-paced contract manufacturing environment and requires strong adaptability, rapid learning, and the ability to execute across varying technical domains and customer requirements.
Essential Functions
Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
  1. Design, develop, and prototype electronic hardware for a variety of customer-driven applications and industries.
  2. Rapidly interpret and translate diverse customer requirements (drawings, specifications, concepts) into effective electrical designs.
  3. Create and maintain complete design documentation, including schematics, PCB layouts, cable drawings, and bills of materials (BOMs).
  4. Apply simulation, analysis, and engineering judgment to validate designs and reduce technical risk.
  5. Collaborate cross-functionally with Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering to ensure designs meet system, packaging, and DFM/DFA requirements.
  6. Support concurrent projects with varying scope, complexity, and technology stacks.
  7. Quickly ramp on new components, platforms, and technologies to meet project needs.
  8. Support prototype builds, including part sourcing, hands-on assembly support, and test execution.
  9. Develop and execute verification and validation (V&V) plans aligned to customer specifications.
  10. Troubleshoot and resolve issues through structured root cause analysis across multiple product types.
  11. Contribute to embedded or support software/firmware development as required.
  12. Engage directly with customers to clarify requirements, present designs, and validate progress at key milestones.
  13. Coordinate with vendors and suppliers to support sourcing, lead times, and technical alignment.
  14. Maintain accurate project documentation and time tracking in accordance with internal processes.
  15. Support quality systems (ISO), continuous improvement initiatives, and safe work practices.
  16. Assist in resolving customer issues and maintaining strong, responsive client relationships.
  17. Perform other duties as assigned.
Competencies
  • Technical Agility & Learning Speed
  • Systems Thinking Across Diverse Technologies
  • Problem Solving & Root Cause Analysis
  • Project Execution in a High-Mix Environment
  • Communication & Customer Engagement
  • Results Orientation & Accountability
  • Self-Direction & Adaptability
Supervisory Responsibility
This position does not have direct reports.
Work Environment
This role operates in a dynamic office and lab environment with frequent interaction on the production floor. Exposure to a variety of products, processes, and manufacturing conditions is expected. Standard office, lab, and production equipment are used regularly.
Physical Demands
While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to sit, use hands, reach with hands and arms, use fine hand motor skills/dexterity, use repetitive motions, and lift and/or move up to 15 lbs. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception and ability to adjust focus.
Travel
Limited travel is expected for this position.
Required Education and Experience
  • Bachelor's Degree in Electrical Engineering.
  • Experience with PCB design tools (e.g., Altium, KiCAD or equivalent)
  • Proficiency with schematic capture, layout, and simulation tools
  • Demonstrated ability to learn new technologies and tools quickly
  • Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple concurrent projects
Preferred Education and Experience
  • 2-4 years of relevant experience, ideally in a contract manufacturing or high-mix environment
  • Experience across multiple domains (e.g., power electronics, embedded systems, industrial controls, or wireless systems)
  • Embedded firmware or software development experience
  • Familiarity with Bluetooth or other wireless technologies
  • Python or scripting experience
  • Test fixture design and validation experience
  • Project management experience
Compensation and Benefits
Pro-Active Engineering offers a competitive wage based on experience and a generous benefits package to include health, dental, vision, life insurance, short and long-term disability, retirement plan with a company match, FSA, paid vacation, sick days, holidays and Gain Sharing bonuses.
Pro-Active Engineering 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 any other category protected by law.