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Contract Embedded Systems Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Toyon

Senior Embedded Systems Engineer

Goleta, CA

$145K - $235K/yr

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

Thea Energy

Embedded Systems Engineer

Kearny, NJ · On-site

$110K - $150K/yr

Thea Energy is seeking a skilled and motivated Embedded Systems Engineer to lead the development of control and protection systems for high-power power supply systems deployed in the Integrated ...

Tractable

Embedded Systems Engineer

Salt Lake City, UT · On-site

$120/hr

We're looking for an Embedded Systems Engineer to own and evolve the device-side software/firmware ... Contract type: Permanent Compensation: $120-150k Diversity commitment At Tractable, we are ...

New

Stryten Energy

Embedded Systems Engineer

Alpharetta, GA · On-site

... Engineers to design, improve, and validate embedded software across our CANOPEN stack as well as be the liaison between Software Engineering and System's Engineering in BESS and Industrial ...

New

Thea Energy

Embedded Systems Engineer

Kearny, NJ

$110K - $150K/yr

Thea Energy is seeking a skilled and motivated Embedded Systems Engineer to lead the development of control and protection systems for high-power power supply systems deployed in the Integrated ...

RFA Engineering

Embedded Systems Engineer

Cary, NC · On-site

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 ...

FieldAI

Embedded Systems Engineer-Federal

Irvine, CA

$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 ...

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All JobsContract Embedded Systems Engineer Jobs

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 Jul 20, 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.

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Contract Embedded Systems Engineer jobs near you

Senior Embedded Systems Engineer

Toyon

Goleta, CA

$145K - $235K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 29 days ago

Job description

Description

US Citizenship is Required. Ability to qualify for a US Department of Defense security clearance required. Candidate must be SAP and SCI program eligible.


This position is in-person.


Toyon is looking for a talented and passionate Senior Embedded Systems Engineer to join our growing Aerospace Systems team. In this role, you will play a lead role in the design, development, and testing of embedded systems for our next-generation aerospace systems. You will be a technology leader, working with Lead Engineer and Program Manager on technology strategies that drive embedded development. You will be responsible for the entire development lifecycle, from concept to implementation, ensuring our systems meet the highest standards of safety, reliability, and performance.


Responsibilities:

  • Design and develop embedded firmware for flight control systems, navigation systems, and other avionics subsystems
  • Write clean, efficient, and well-documented code in C and C++
  • Design and implement hardware interfaces for sensors, actuators, and other peripherals
  • Conduct unit testing, integration testing, and system-level testing of embedded software
  • Participate in technical reviews and collaborate with other engineers to ensure overall system integration
  • Prepare technical documentation, including requirements specifications, design documents, and test plans
  • Lead the embedded technology roadmap to guide engineering design

Requirements

  • Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, Aerospace Engineering, or a related field
  • 7+ years of experience in embedded systems development in industry
  • Experience developing and delivering operational systems that have been used
  • Proven ability to write clean, well-documented, and sustainable code
  • Strong experience in C and C++ programming
  • Experience with scripting languages (e.g. Python) for automation tasks
  • Excellent understanding of digital logic design principles
  • Experience with hardware design and interfacing
  • Understanding of digital communications via UART, SPI, CAN, etc.
  • Knowledge of software version control principles
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team
  • U.S. Citizenship and ability to obtain a U.S. Department of Defense security clearance with SAP and SCI program eligibility

Preferred:

  • 15+ years of experience in embedded systems development in industry
  • Experience with debugging complex embedded systems using hardware debugging tools
  • Experience writing HDL for FPGAs
  • Knowledge of aerospace engineering subdisciplines: GN&C, propulsion, aerodynamics, astrodynamics, structures
  • Experience with real-time operating systems (RTOS)
  • Previous usage of git in collaborative environments
  • Analog and digital circuit and PCB design for aerospace applications
  • Passionate about solving real world problems quickly
  • Multiple instances of having designed, built, and delivered useful software to users
  • Willing to take risks and own the accountability for managing those risks
  • Existing TS Clearance

WE OFFER AN EXCEPTIONAL EMPLOYEE BENEFITS PACKAGE!

  • Competitive Industry Pay
  • 100% Employer-Paid Medical Insurance Premium
  • HSA with Employer Contributions
  • Dental and Vision Coverage Options
  • Paid Holidays
  • Paid Vacation and Sick leave
  • Company Funded 401(k) and Profit Sharing Plans
  • Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP)
  • Life and Disability Insurance  
  • Paid Parental Leave
  • Discretionary Bonus Eligibility

The annual pay range for the Senior Embedded Systems Engineer position is $145,000 to $235,000.


The posted pay range values provide the candidate with guidance on annual base compensation for the position, at a full time level of effort, exclusive of overtime, bonus, and benefits-related compensation, over a range of qualifications that may fit hiring objectives. Toyon Research Corporation will consider the individual candidate's education, work experience, applicable knowledge, skills and training, among other factors, when preparing an offer of employment. 


Equal Opportunity Employer including Disability and Veterans   


Applicant Privacy Notice 


Learn more about our company in our latest video, We are Toyon. 


The application window for this posting will remain open until the position is filled.   


Ref #2650-H

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