1

Contract Embedded Systems Engineer Jobs in Riverside, CA

This is an opportunity to work on all aspects of the system including device drivers, networking ... S. government contracts. * All employment is contingent upon the successful clearance of a ...

Embedded Software Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

$141K - $185K/yr

Embedded Software Engineer Location: Irvine, California (onsite) Duration: Long Term Contract ... Collaborate with cross-functional teams including hardware, systems, and verification engineers

Embedded Software Engineer

Irvine, CA

$141K - $185K/yr

This is an opportunity to work on all aspects of the system including device drivers, networking ... S. government contracts. * All employment is contingent upon the successful clearance of a ...

Systems Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

$54.93 - $68.66/hr

Systems Engineer Full-time Irvine, CA, US Exclusive confidential search -- details shared with ... Benefits You'll Love NextDeavor offers health, vision and dental benefits for contract employees ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Contract Embedded Systems Engineer information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$65.2K

$143.2K

$200.3K

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

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for contract embedded systems engineer in Riverside, CA is $143,213.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $116,300.00 and $170,600.00 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.

What are popular job titles related to Contract Embedded Systems Engineer jobs in Riverside, CA? For Contract Embedded Systems Engineer jobs in Riverside, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Contract Embedded Systems Engineer jobs in Riverside, CA look for? The top searched job categories for Contract Embedded Systems Engineer jobs in Riverside, CA are:
What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Contract Embedded Systems Engineer jobs? Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Contract Embedded Systems Engineer job openings:

Embedded Software Engineer (Consumer Home)

TP-Link Systems Inc.

Irvine, CA • On-site

$100K - $140K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 25 days ago


Job description

About Us:

Headquartered in the United States, TP-Link Systems Inc. is a leading global provider of networking devices and smart home products. Consistently ranked as the world's top provider of Wi-Fi devices, TP-Link is dedicated to delivering innovative solutions that improve people’s lives by offering faster, more reliable connectivity. Serving customers in over 170 countries, we are committed to expanding our global footprint.

At TP-Link Systems Inc., we believe that technology has the power to transform the world for the better. Our mission is to design reliable, high-performance products that connect users worldwide to the limitless possibilities of technology.

We are driven by our core values of professionalism, innovation, excellence, and simplicity. Our goal is to help clients achieve outstanding global performance and to provide consumers with a seamless, effortless technology experience.

Overview:

We are seeking a skilled Embedded Software Engineer to design, develop, and optimize consumer networking products such as routers, access points, and switches. In this hands-on role, you will collaborate closely with cross-functional teams to bring features from concept to completion, ensuring high standards of performance, reliability, and safety. You will be involved in every stage of the development process, from chipset bring-up and SDK integration to new feature development.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Collaborate with product management to conduct technical research and feasibility assessments that guide product design decisions.
  • Design and develop embedded networking products, leading chipset bring-up, SDK integration, and application development across multiple hardware platforms.
  • Partner with hardware teams to implement hardware-dependent functions and resolve integration challenges.
  • Develop new features for real-time embedded systems using C/C++, optimizing firmware for performance, memory efficiency, and power usage to meet stringent system requirements.
  • Create clear and comprehensive technical documentation, including design specifications, software architecture, and other necessary documents to support future development, maintainability, and effective collaboration.
  • Conduct code reviews, providing feedback to uphold coding standards and best practices across the team.
  • Perform unit, integration, and system testing, collaborating with QA to define testing strategies and address issues identified during testing.
  • Manage firmware releases, including maintaining detailed documentation, user manuals, and change logs for each update.
  • Ensure product readiness for production by developing manufacturing tools, facilitating certifications, and providing on-site support as required.
  • Investigate and address customer-reported issues, implementing firmware updates to enhance performance and resolve issues.
  • Mentor junior engineers in coding, debugging, and software design best practices.
  • Conduct industry analysis to stay informed of trends and maintain a competitive edge in product offerings.

Requirements

Required Qualifications:

  • Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or equivalent experience.
  • 3+ years of experience developing embedded software.
  • Strong skills in software design, programming (C/C++), scripting, and debugging.
  • Familiarity with embedded operating systems (e.g., RTOS, Linux) and real-time system design.
  • Knowledge of network protocols and standards (e.g., DHCP, IPv4, IPv6).
  • Experience working with microcontrollers, processors, and hardware interfaces like UART, SPI, I2C, and GPIO.
  • Proficiency with debugging tools like GDB, Wireshark, and terminal applications.
  • Understanding of the software development lifecycle, including version control, unit testing, and continuous integration.
  • Strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Experience developing networking products such as access points, routers, or switches.
  • Experience with ARM Cortex-A53/73 or similar platforms.
  • Experience with Wi-Fi chipset bring-up and integration.
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
  • Ability to work independently and in a fast-paced, collaborative environment.

Benefits

Salary range: $100,000 - $140,000

  • Free snacks and drinks, and provided lunch on Fridays
  • Fully paid medical, dental, and vision insurance (partial coverage for dependents)
  • Contributions to 401k funds
  • Bi-annual reviews, and annual pay increases
  • Health and wellness benefits, including free gym membership
  • Quarterly team-building events

At TP-Link Systems Inc., we are continually searching for ambitious individuals who are passionate about their work. We believe that diversity fuels innovation, collaboration, and drives our entrepreneurial spirit. As a global company, we highly value diverse perspectives and are committed to cultivating an environment where all voices are heard, respected, and valued. We are dedicated to providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants, and we prohibit discrimination and harassment of any kind based on race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws. Beyond compliance, we strive to create a supportive and growth-oriented workplace for everyone. If you share our passion and connection to this mission, we welcome you to apply and join us in building a vibrant and inclusive team at TP-Link Systems Inc.

Please, no third-party agency inquiries, and we are unable to offer visa sponsorships at this time.