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Contract Embedded Systems Engineer Jobs in Raleigh, NC

Embedded Systems Engineer This position is associated with development of electrical systems and software that control vehicle operation and functions. Development methods include C programming ...

Embedded Firmware Engineer III

Cary, NC

$101K - $138K/yr

Embedded Firmware Engineer III Position Summary We are seeking an experienced Embedded Firmware ... You'll play a key role in developing battery management systems, lighting controls, wireless ...

Embedded Firmware Engineer III

Cary, NC · On-site

$125K - $140K/yr

Embedded Firmware Engineer III Position Summary We are seeking an experienced Embedded Firmware ... You'll play a key role in developing battery management systems, lighting controls, wireless ...

Systems Engineer

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$40K - $90K/yr

Role : Systems Engineer Type : FT Location: Raleigh, NC Hybrid We are looking for a candidate to ... Embedded systems communications experience. * C#, ASP.Net Core experience. * Experience with ...

Role : Systems Engineer Type : FT Location: Raleigh, NC Hybrid We are looking for a candidate to ... Embedded systems communications experience. * C#, ASP.Net Core experience. * Experience with ...

Systems Engineer

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$40K - $90K/yr

Role : Systems Engineer Type : FT Location: Raleigh, NC Hybrid We are looking for a candidate to ... Embedded systems communications experience. * C#, ASP.Net Core experience. * Experience with ...

Embedded Software Engineer

Cary, NC · On-site

$60 - $64/hr

Embedded Software Engineer Client: Heavy Machine Manufacturing Company Location: Cary, NC 27513 ... Identify and improve existing processes and systems * Support development of next-gen embedded ...

senior embedded software engineer

Cary, NC · On-site

$114K - $150K/yr

Review system-level requirements, and process them into software requirements specifications Design ... of an embedded system based on software requirements Integrate applications using components ...

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Contract Embedded Systems Engineer information

See Raleigh, NC salary details

$60.8K

$133.4K

$186.6K

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

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for contract embedded systems engineer in Raleigh, NC is $133,441.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $108,400.00 and $158,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 Raleigh, NC?

The most popular types of Embedded Systems Engineer jobs in Raleigh, NC are:

What job categories do people searching Contract Embedded Systems Engineer jobs in Raleigh, NC look for?

The top searched job categories for Contract Embedded Systems Engineer jobs in Raleigh, NC are:

Infographic showing various Contract Embedded Systems Engineer job openings in Raleigh, NC as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 86% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $133,441 per year, or $64.2 per hour.

Embedded Systems Engineer

RFA Engineering

Cary, NC • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 21 hours ago


Job description

RFA Engineering (www.rfamec.com) develops embedded software and electronics for our world-class clients in the areas of precision agriculture and vehicle electrification. We are seeking an experienced candidate to become an integral part of our engineering team. The selected candidate will work with an experienced engineering staff using state-of-the-art engineering tools & processes. This position will operate onsite at our customer's engineering and manufacturing facility.
Embedded Systems Engineer
This position is associated with development of electrical systems and software that control vehicle operation and functions. Development methods include C programming language and Model Based Software Design including MATLAB/Simulink.
Responsibilities
  • Design new and enhance existing systems for robust electronics intended for on/off road vehicles and harsh environments.
  • Perform requirements capture, analysis, design, programming, debugging, hardware integration and verification.
  • Solicit and capture requirements directly from customers.
  • Create and review innovative HW/SW testing architectures and designs for challenging problems.
  • Breaking the original requirements down into the proper high level and mid-range architecture and then creating detailed design notes from the results.
  • Perform detailed unit, integration, and systems verification and validation testing using HW/SW tools.
  • Review others testing and suggest additional test cases.
  • Work closely with other project team members as needed to ensure the final combined product has compatible software, electronic hardware, and mechanical hardware which functions properly together and performs at levels specified in the test requirement.

Requirements
  • Bachelor's of Science degree in Electrical, Software, Computer Engineering or Related Field
  • Software Development experience (C, C++, Simulink)
  • Ability to interpret software requirements, electrical schematics, and test plan documentation
  • Experience with root cause analysis, machine troubleshooting, and diagnostics
  • Experience with development and debugging tools (oscilloscopes, multi-meters, logic analyzers)

Desired Attributes
  • Experience with basic electronics and hardware systems (Op Amp, FET's. Transducers, A/D Converters)
  • General machine knowledge of off-road equipment or machinery
  • Self-motivated, quick learner, with an any-problem-can-be-solved attitude
  • A strong mathematical and analytical problem solving skills
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills

Visa sponsorship is NOT available for this position.
About RFA Engineering
RFA Engineering has provided product development and engineering services to industry leading customers since 1943. Our primary focus is the development of off highway equipment including agricultural, construction, mining, recreational, industrial, and special machines. Our work includes concept development, product design, documentation, problem-solving, simulation, optimization, and testing of components, systems and complete machines. Our engineering staff is located at our Engineering Center in Minneapolis, branch office in Dubuque, IA, and at numerous customer sites throughout the U.S.
Competitive Benefits
  • Health and Dental Insurance
  • TelaDoc Healthiest You
  • Supplemental Vision Insurance
  • Company Paid Life Insurance
  • Company Paid Long-Term Disability
  • Short-term Disability
  • Retirement Savings Account (Traditional 401k & Roth 401k)
  • Flexible Spending Plan Dependent Care
  • HSA for Medical Expenses
  • Bonus Plan (Exempt Employees Only)
  • Paid Time Off (PTO)
  • Paid Holidays
  • Bereavement Leave
  • Employee Assistance Programs (EAP)
  • Education Assistance

Equal Opportunity and Veteran Friendly
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.