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Contract Embedded Systems Engineer Jobs in California

Nathan Kunes Inc

Embedded Systems Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$95 - $135/hr

NKI is experiencing rapid growth, and we're looking for a full-time Embedded Systems Engineer to join our team and support this exciting expansion. At NKI, we're committed to investing in our ...

Nathan Kunes Inc

Embedded Systems Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$95K - $135K/yr

NKI is experiencing rapid growth, and we're looking for a full-time Embedded Systems Engineer to join our team and support this exciting expansion. At NKI, we're committed to investing in our ...

Umbra

Embedded Systems Engineer

Santa Barbara, CA · On-site

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 ...

Umbra

Embedded Systems Engineer

Santa Barbara, CA · On-site

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 ...

FieldAI

Embedded Systems Engineer-Federal

Irvine, CA · On-site

$70K - $300K/yr

As an Embedded Systems Engineer on the Federal Team at Field AI, you will contribute to the architecture, configuration, and validation of the compute systems that serve as the backbone for our ...

FieldAI

Embedded Systems Engineer-Federal

Irvine, CA · On-site

As an Embedded Systems Engineer on the Federal Team at Field AI, you will contribute to the architecture, configuration, and validation of the compute systems that serve as the backbone for our ...

SeeScan

Senior Embedded Systems Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$120K - $200K/yr

About this position We are looking for a hands-on Senior Embedded Systems Engineer to join our team. You will work in the domain where software meets hardware, from troubleshooting hardware during ...

Copper

Staff Embedded Systems Engineer

Berkeley, CA · Hybrid

$182K - $210K/yr

Overview As a Staff Embedded Systems Engineer at Copper, you'll help build the firmware that powers our energy-storage-enabled appliances. You'll work across device firmware, connectivity, and cloud ...

Copper

Staff Embedded Systems Engineer

Berkeley, CA · On-site

$182K - $210K/yr

Overview As a Staff Embedded Systems Engineer at Copper, you'll help build the firmware that powers our energy-storage-enabled appliances. You'll work across device firmware, connectivity, and cloud ...

Leidos

Software / Embedded Systems Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$139K - $183K/yr

Leidos' Undersea Systems Division is seeking a Software / Embedded Systems Engineer in San Diego, CA to join a fast-paced R&D engineering group. This role is a unique opportunity to drive innovation ...

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Contract Embedded Systems Engineer information

What is a contract embedded systems engineer?

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 the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a contract embedded systems engineer?

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 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.

What are the most commonly searched types of Embedded Systems Engineer jobs in California?

The most popular types of Embedded Systems Engineer jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Contract Embedded Systems Engineer jobs in California?

For Contract Embedded Systems Engineer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Contract Embedded Systems Engineer jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Contract Embedded Systems Engineer jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Contract Embedded Systems Engineer jobs?

Cities in California with the most Contract Embedded Systems Engineer job openings:

Contract Embedded Systems Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Contract Embedded Systems Engineer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 88% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 88% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution.

Embedded Systems Engineer

Nathan Kunes Inc

San Diego, CA • On-site

$95 - $135/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 7 days ago

Job description

NKI is experiencing rapid growth, and we're looking for a full-time Embedded Systems Engineer to join our team and support this exciting expansion. At NKI, we're committed to investing in our employees' growth and development, helping them achieve their career goals. To learn more about us and our team, visit our website.

About You and the Role

The Embedded Systems Engineer will help to aid in next generation tools and systems development. This is an exciting position that will have you working across the full product lifecycle, from requirements and architecture through to integration, verification and production support.

We are looking for a San Diego-based Embedded Systems Engineer to join our team at NKI. This is a 100% onsite, full-time position following a 9/80 schedule.

Responsibilities Include:
  • Build and maintain CI/CD pipelines
  • Develop and test application-level code
  • Define and write requirements, specifications, and test documents for new projects
  • Execute unit and integration tests and document completed testing
  • Build and test early product prototypes, validate designs, and iterate based on test results
Required Qualifications
  • Bachelor's or Master's degree in Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or related field of study
  • 2+ years of professional experience in embedded systems engineering
  • Software: C / C++, Rust, Linux
  • Embedded & Hardware: FPGA, Arduino, Raspberry Pi
  • High-level understanding of schematic design and review
  • Experience with unit testing, integration testing and test automation
  • U.S. citizenship required; must be able to obtain and maintain a DoD security clearance.
Compensation
  • Base salary: $95,000-$135,000 depending on experience and qualifications.
Our Company Perks! Career Growth:

We invest in your professional development and provide clear opportunities for advancement.

Impactful Work:

Contribute to critical government and commercial projects that make a difference.

Collaborative Culture:

Work alongside experienced professionals in a supportive environment.

Competitive Benefits:

Enjoy a comprehensive benefits package and a 9/80 work schedule for better work-life balance.

Benefits Include:
  • Medical, Dental, and Vision coverage.
  • Company-paid Life, AD&D, Short-Term Disability, and Long-Term Disability insurance, plus access to additional voluntary insurance options.
  • 401(k) plan with Company Safe Harbor contributions
  • Eligibility for discretionary employer-sponsored bonus
  • 9/80 work schedule (every other Friday off).
  • Paid Time Off: 10 days of vacation, 7 personal days, and 11 paid Federal holidays annually.

Nathan Kunes Incorporated (NKI), established in 1998, specializes in delivering Software, Systems, and Information Assurance engineering services to the Department of Defense and Intelligence Community agencies. We are committed to creating an inclusive workplace where every team member feels valued and respected.

NKI is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic under applicable law.

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