1

Contract Embedded Systems Engineer Jobs in Massachusetts

STR is hiring an Embedded Systems Emulation Engineer to join our multidisciplinary team of researchers and engineers developing cutting-edge technologies with significant and immediate impact on our ...

STR is hiring an Embedded Systems Emulation Engineer to join our multidisciplinary team of researchers and engineers developing cutting-edge technologies with significant and immediate impact on our ...

Note-Need Senior People who has Team management and offshore coordination experience Hello Team, Position- Embedded System Engineer Location : Danvers, MA Day 1 onsite * 12+ years of experience in ...

STR is hiring an Embedded Systems Emulation Engineer to join our multidisciplinary team of researchers and engineers developing cutting-edge technologies with significant and immediate impact on our ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

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 Massachusetts?

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

Infographic showing various Contract Embedded Systems Engineer job openings in Massachusetts 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 -- FreeRTOS

Mesodyne

Somerville, MA • On-site

$100 - $160/hr

Other

Posted 11 days ago


Job description

Embedded Systems Engineer — FreeRTOS About the Company

Mesodyne builds compact, silent thermophotovoltaic generators — MIT-born LightCell tech that runs on any fuel and lasts 10x longer than batteries or engines. We serve industrial and defense customers with active contracts and a growing pipeline.

About the Role

We're looking for an Embedded Systems Engineer who loves being close to the hardware. You'll develop the real-time "brain" of the LightCell — firmware running at the bare-metal and RTOS level on STM32 microcontrollers, directly controlling micro-pumps, proportional valves, high-current igniters, blowers, and other actuators.

What You'll Do
  • Develop, test, and debug low-overhead C/C++ firmware implementing the state machines and real-time control loops that govern LightCell operations
  • Architect and optimize multi-threaded tasks using FreeRTOS on STM32, ensuring precise scheduling, task prioritization, and low-latency safety controls
  • Write and validate robust custom drivers for digital and analog peripherals over SPI, I2C, UART, and CAN
  • Serve as the primary technical bridge at the hardware-firmware boundary, isolating bugs using oscilloscopes, logic analyzers, and JTAG/SWD debuggers
  • Write automated test scripts (Python) to interface with hardware for high-speed data logging and long-duration system characterization
What We're Looking For
  • B.S. or M.S. in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or a related field
  • 3+ years of professional experience in bare-metal or RTOS firmware development for complex electromechanical, robotic, or medical systems
  • Strong C/C++ skills for deeply embedded microcontrollers, with a passion for clean, modular, well-documented code where failures have physical consequences
  • Ability to read schematics, locate test points on a PCB, and confidently use hardware lab diagnostic tools
Location

On-site, full-time, in Somerville, MA.

#J-18808-Ljbffr

Mesodyne logo

About Mesodyne

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Nanotechnology research and development

Company size

1 - 10 Employees

Headquarters location

Somerville, MA, US

Year founded

2018