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Contract Firmware Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Amaze Systems Inc.

FIRMWARE ENGINEER

Mountain View, CA · On-site

Mountain View, CA (Hybrid) Type- Long-Term-Contract Key Roles & Responsibilities: * Collaborate with firmware teams to design and implement solutions for embedded systems. * Develop and maintain ...

Mojio

Firmware Engineer (Contract)

Firmware Engineer (Contract) This is a U.S.-based remote position . Preferred candidates from PST zone. Candidates must reside and be authorized to work in the United States. We are not able to ...

Staffingine LLC

Firmware Developer

Houston, TX · On-site

Contract * Experience with developing firmware applications on ARM processors. * Expertise in ARM embedded architecture. * Expertise in C programming. * Experience working with UEFI Architecture and ...

ALSO

Lead Firmware Engineer, Manufacturing

Palo Alto, CA · On-site

$225K - $265K/yr

The team serves as the bridge between Product Firmware, Validation & Tools Engineering, Hardware Engineering, Operations, suppliers, and contract manufacturers. This is a technical leadership role ...

Xforia, Inc.

Sr Firmware Engineer

San Jose, CA · On-site

$138K - $183K/yr

Role Description This is an on-site contract role for a Senior Firmware Engineer at Greenvity Communications in San Jose, CA. The Senior Firmware Engineer will be responsible for debugging ...

Cimarron

Firmware Engineer

Cedar Park, TX · On-site

$120K - $170K/yr

Posting/External Job Title Firmware Engineer Location TX 78613 US (Primary) Remote/Onsite/Hybrid ... contract documentation requirements.

Staffingine LLC

Senior Firmware Developer

Houston, TX · On-site

$114K - $150K/yr

Contract * Experience with developing firmware applications on ARM processors. * Expertise in ARM embedded architecture. * Expertise in C programming. * Experience working with UEFI Architecture and ...

Siri InfoSolutions Inc

Senior Firmware Engineer

Longmont, CO · On-site

$118K - $156K/yr

Senior Firmware Engineer Location: Longmont, CO Duration : Long Term Contract Experience Level: 7-10 years of experience Job Details: * Conducts analysis, designs, performs programming, debugs and ...

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All JobsContract Firmware Jobs

Contract Firmware information

See salary details

$75K

$167.4K

$205K

How much do contract firmware jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for contract firmware in the United States is $167,438.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $143,000.00 and $205,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What engineer makes $500,000 a year?

Senior firmware engineers or specialized hardware engineers in high-demand industries can earn salaries approaching or exceeding $500,000 annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced skills in embedded systems, and working in high-paying sectors like aerospace or defense. Such roles often require advanced certifications, leadership responsibilities, and working in competitive environments.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Contract Firmware Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Contract Firmware Engineer, you need a solid background in embedded systems, programming languages like C/C++, and experience with microcontroller architectures, often supported by a degree in electrical engineering or computer science. Familiarity with tools such as oscilloscopes, logic analyzers, version control systems (e.g., Git), and sometimes certifications in embedded development are commonly required. Strong problem-solving skills, clear communication, and the ability to quickly adapt to new projects or client requirements make someone stand out in this position. These skills ensure efficient development, effective collaboration with hardware and software teams, and successful delivery of high-quality firmware solutions for diverse clients.

What contract job pays the most?

Contract firmware engineering roles tend to pay the highest among contract tech jobs due to specialized skills in embedded systems, real-time operating systems, and hardware integration. Senior-level positions with expertise in C/C++, debugging tools, and certifications like CISSP or PMP can command higher hourly rates, often exceeding $100 per hour depending on the industry and project complexity.

Will the firmware engineer be replaced by AI?

Firmware engineers design and develop low-level software for hardware devices, and while AI tools can assist with coding and testing, they are not expected to fully replace human engineers in this role. Skills in embedded systems, programming languages, and debugging remain essential, and human oversight is critical for complex hardware-software integration.

Are firmware developers in demand?

Firmware developers are in high demand due to the growth of embedded systems in industries like consumer electronics, automotive, and IoT. Skills in C, C++, and real-time operating systems are particularly valuable, and many companies seek professionals with experience in hardware-software integration and debugging. The role often requires knowledge of microcontrollers and development tools, making it a stable career choice with increasing opportunities.

What are contract firmware engineers?

Contract firmware engineers are professionals who specialize in designing, developing, and testing embedded software (firmware) for devices, usually on a temporary or project-specific basis. They are hired by companies to work on particular projects, bringing expertise in programming microcontrollers, optimizing code for hardware, and ensuring reliable device performance. Unlike full-time employees, contract firmware engineers typically work for a set period or until the completion of a project, offering flexibility and specialized skills to organizations needing firmware development support.

What is the difference between Contract Firmware vs Firmware Engineer?

AspectContract FirmwareFirmware Engineer
CredentialsTypically requires relevant certifications or experience in embedded systemsRequires a degree in electrical engineering, computer science, or related fields
Work EnvironmentTemporary or project-based, often freelance or consulting rolesFull-time employment within a company or organization
Industry UsageCommon in industries needing short-term expertise, such as startups or R&DStandard role in manufacturing, tech, and embedded systems companies
Search & Comparison IntentOften compared for project-based work or freelance opportunitiesCompared for long-term career paths or full-time positions

Contract Firmware roles focus on short-term, project-specific embedded system development, often requiring specialized skills and certifications. Firmware Engineers typically hold full-time positions, developing and maintaining firmware as part of ongoing product development. Both roles involve embedded systems but differ mainly in employment type and duration.

What are some common challenges faced by contract firmware engineers in managing multiple client projects?

Contract firmware engineers often juggle projects for different clients, which can present challenges such as adapting to varying hardware platforms, coding standards, and documentation practices. Effective time management and clear communication with each client are essential to ensure that project milestones are met and expectations are aligned. Additionally, contract engineers must quickly learn new tools or development environments and stay updated with industry best practices to deliver high-quality, reliable firmware solutions on tight deadlines.
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Contract Firmware jobs near you
Firmware Engineer

Firmware Engineer

The Planet Group

Mayfield Heights, OH • On-site

Other

Posted 7 days ago

New

Job description

Duration: 6-Month Contract


Firmware Engineer Level 3 Qualifications

Minimum:

  • Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering or Computer Engineering or equivalent knowledge in the application of software engineering principles, theories, concepts, and techniques
  • 2+ years of software engineering experience in a professional setting, or an equivalent graduate degree
  • Experience developing software for embedded systems, especially using an embedded RTOS or Linux

Desired:

  • Experience debugging software systems using either an on-chip debugger, or a software based debugger such as GDB
  • Experience developing automated tests and tools in a high-level language such as Python
  • Knowledge of industrial protocols, especially Common Industrial Protocol (CIP)
  • Knowledge of communication protocols and technologies such as Ethernet, USB, or PCI Express
  • Experience developing device drivers or other similar low-level embedded software
  • Knowledge of modern Intel and ARM architectures
  • Advanced coursework related to software engineering, embedded systems, operating systems, or computer architecture


Firmware Engineer Level 3 Description:

  • Develop safety- and security-critical embedded software for new Programmable Logic Controllers
  • Work in a variety of hardware and software environments, ranging from commercial off-the-shelf to custom System on Chip architectures, and from general purpose to embedded real-time operating systems
  • Use modern continuous integration and development tools, and promote continuous improvement of engineering tools and practices across the global development organization
  • Participate as a member of an agile team within the Scaled Agile Framework, promoting agile practices within the team
  • Perform detailed-level design and implementation of controller features and subsystems with technical guidance from senior engineering personnel
  • Participate in all aspects of the embedded software quality process, including design and code review, and developing unit and functional testware
  • Implement automated tests; expand and improve automated test coverage, practices, and procedures

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