1

Contract Embedded Software Jobs in Santa Cruz, CA

Contract Compensation: $70.00 per hour Work Model: Type: Onsite In-Person all working days Location ... Develop and execute comprehensive test plans and strategies for embedded software, firmware, and ...

This is a software engineering role embedded within Manufacturing Test Engineering, working closely ... Integrate manufacturing software with MES, SFIS, and other factory systems used by contract ...

This is a software engineering role embedded within Manufacturing Test Engineering, working closely ... Integrate manufacturing software with MES, SFIS, and other factory systems used by contract ...

Senior Product Test Engineer

San Jose, CA · On-site

$175K - $225K/yr

This is a software engineering role embedded within Manufacturing Test Engineering, working closely ... Integrate manufacturing software with MES, SFIS, and other factory systems used by contract ...

Role Objective Work closely with contract manufacturers (CM), vendors, and suppliers to develop ... Experience with debugging circuits with embedded software and log analysis * Experience with test ...

Role Objective Work closely with contract manufacturers (CM), vendors, and suppliers to develop ... Experience with debugging circuits with embedded software and log analysis * Experience with test ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Contract Embedded Software information

See Santa Cruz, CA salary details

$80.8K

$177.1K

$200.9K

How much do contract embedded software jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for contract embedded software in Santa Cruz, CA is $177,106.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $151,800.00 and $199,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a contract embedded software?

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 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 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 popular job titles related to Contract Embedded Software jobs in Santa Cruz, CA?

For Contract Embedded Software jobs in Santa Cruz, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Contract Embedded Software jobs in Santa Cruz, CA look for?

The top searched job categories for Contract Embedded Software jobs in Santa Cruz, CA are:

What cities near Santa Cruz, CA are hiring for Contract Embedded Software jobs?

Cities near Santa Cruz, CA with the most Contract Embedded Software job openings:

Senior Embedded Software Test Engineer (891-1)

WilsonCTS

San Jose, CA • On-site

$60 - $79/hr

Contractor

Re-posted 2 days ago


Job description

Senior Embedded Software Test Engineer 


Location: San Jose, CA (Onsite)
Duration: 6-Month Contract
Schedule: Monday - Friday | 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Pay Rate: $60.00 - $79.00/hour

We are seeking a Senior Embedded Software Test Engineer to join a leading global medical technology organization. This is a fully onsite contract opportunity supporting the development and validation of embedded software, firmware, and hardware-integrated medical devices. The ideal candidate is detail-oriented, analytical, and experienced in both manual and automated testing of embedded systems.

Key Responsibilities
  • Develop and execute comprehensive test plans, test strategies, and test protocols for embedded software, firmware, and hardware-integrated products.
  • Analyze system requirements and create detailed test cases to ensure complete verification coverage.
  • Perform manual and automated testing while documenting execution results and identifying defects.
  • Investigate issues through root cause analysis and verify corrective actions.
  • Validate product functionality using command-line tools, log analysis, physical probing, and electrical/mechanical testing techniques.
  • Prepare detailed test reports summarizing execution results, defect trends, verification outcomes, and corrective actions.
  • Collaborate closely with software, hardware, quality, and project engineering teams to ensure product quality and timely delivery.
  • Support regulatory documentation and verification activities as required.
Required Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, or a related technical discipline (or equivalent experience).
  • 2-5 years of experience developing test plans, test cases, and test protocols for embedded systems.
  • 2+ years of experience performing manual and automated testing of embedded software, firmware, and hardware-integrated systems.
  • 2-5 years of experience troubleshooting defects, performing root cause analysis, and verifying corrective actions.
  • Ability to work independently with minimal supervision in a fast-paced engineering environment.
  • Strong analytical, documentation, and communication skills.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience using command-line tools for testing and debugging.
  • Working knowledge of C++ and/or C#.
  • Experience working on FDA-regulated medical devices.
  • Familiarity with regulatory processes, including 510(k) submissions.