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Contract Embedded Systems Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Embedded Systems Engineer

Elmhurst, IL · On-site

$60K - $80K/yr

The Embedded Systems Engineer is responsible for the design and development of embedded applications on hardware platforms. The focus in this role includes creation of technical specifications ...

Toyon is looking for a talented and passionate Embedded Systems Engineer to join our growing Aerospace Systems team. In this role, you will play a key part in the design, development, and testing of ...

Embedded Systems Engineer

Elmhurst, IL · On-site

$60K - $80K/yr

The Embedded Systems Engineer is responsible for the design and development of embedded applications on hardware platforms. The focus in this role includes creation of technical specifications ...

About the Job Umbra is seeking an Embedded Systems Engineer with a strong firmware background to support development of mission-critical satellite systems. This role focuses on bare-metal embedded ...

About the Job Umbra is seeking an Embedded Systems Engineer with a strong firmware background to support development of mission-critical satellite systems. This role focuses on bare-metal embedded ...

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Contract Embedded Systems Engineer information

See salary details

$62.5K

$137.3K

$192K

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

As of Jun 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for contract embedded systems engineer in the United States is $137,274.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $111,500.00 and $163,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Contract Embedded Systems Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Contract Embedded Systems Engineer, you generally need a solid background in computer engineering or electrical engineering, with expertise in C/C++ programming, real-time operating systems (RTOS), and hardware-software integration. Familiarity with tools like oscilloscopes, logic analyzers, version control systems (such as Git), and protocols like SPI, I2C, or UART is typically required, along with certifications like Certified Embedded Systems Engineer (CESE) being advantageous. Strong problem-solving skills, adaptability, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for collaborating with diverse teams and clients. These skills and qualifications are essential to deliver reliable, efficient embedded solutions on time while meeting client specifications in a dynamic contract environment.

What are Contract Embedded Systems Engineers?

Contract Embedded Systems Engineers are professionals hired on a temporary or project basis to design, develop, and maintain embedded systems—specialized computing systems that perform dedicated functions within larger mechanical or electrical systems. Unlike permanent employees, contract engineers typically work for a set period or until a specific project is completed, offering flexibility to both engineers and employers. They may work on projects involving hardware and software integration, firmware development, real-time operating systems, and troubleshooting embedded devices. Their skills are often sought in industries like automotive, consumer electronics, medical devices, and industrial automation.

What are some common challenges faced by contract embedded systems engineers, and how can they be addressed?

Contract embedded systems engineers often encounter challenges such as rapidly adapting to new codebases, working within tight project timelines, and ensuring seamless integration with existing hardware and software. Success in this role often requires strong communication with both in-house and external teams to clarify requirements and resolve issues quickly. Proactively documenting your work, asking clarifying questions early, and leveraging version control systems can help manage these challenges and deliver reliable solutions on schedule.

What is the difference between Contract Embedded Systems Engineer vs Contract Firmware Engineer?

AspectContract Embedded Systems EngineerContract Firmware Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Electrical, Computer Engineering, or related; often certifications in embedded systemsBachelor's in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering; certifications in embedded or firmware development
Work EnvironmentDesigning and testing embedded hardware/software in labs or on-siteDeveloping and debugging firmware primarily in software environments
Employer & Industry UsageElectronics, aerospace, automotive, industrial automationConsumer electronics, IoT devices, robotics, embedded systems

Contract Embedded Systems Engineers focus on designing and integrating hardware and software for embedded systems, often working with both hardware and firmware. Contract Firmware Engineers specialize in developing low-level software that runs directly on embedded hardware. While both roles require embedded systems knowledge, the embedded systems engineer has a broader scope including hardware design, whereas firmware engineers concentrate on software development within embedded environments.

More about Contract Embedded Systems Engineer jobs
What cities are hiring for Contract Embedded Systems Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Contract Embedded Systems Engineer job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Embedded Systems Engineer jobs? The most popular types of Embedded Systems Engineer jobs are:
What states have the most Contract Embedded Systems Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Contract Embedded Systems Engineer jobs include:
Infographic showing various Contract Embedded Systems Engineer job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 8% Temporary. Highlights an 84% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $137,274 per year, or $66 per hour.

Full-time

Posted 26 days ago


Job description

Position: Embedded Systems Engineer
Remote
Duration: Short-Term Assignment 2-3months
Type: Contract
Job Description
We are seeking an experienced Embedded Systems Engineer with a strong background in Android AOSP and Linux-based system development. This is a niche, short-term role requiring deep technical expertise in embedded platforms, device drivers, and system-level integration.
Key Responsibilities
  • Develop, customize, and optimize Android AOSP builds for embedded hardware platforms.
  • Work on Linux kernel and device driver development, integration, and debugging.
  • Contribute to Board Support Package (BSP) and Hardware Abstraction Layer (HAL) development.
  • Perform OS-level debugging, performance tuning, and system bring-up on new hardware.
  • Collaborate with hardware and firmware teams to ensure seamless integration and functionality.

Required Skills & Experience
  • Strong hands-on experience with Android AOSP and Embedded Linux environments.
  • Deep understanding of Linux kernel internals, device driver development, and system-level debugging.
  • Experience with BSP, HAL, and low-level hardware-software integration.
  • Solid knowledge of C/C++, shell scripting, and embedded toolchains.
  • Familiarity with SoC architectures, bootloaders, and hardware interfaces (I2C, SPI, UART, etc.).