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Embedded C Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Embedded Engineer

Irvine, CA ยท On-site

$141K - $185K/yr

Embedded Engineer Location - Atlanta, Georgia Experience : 7 to 10 years * 7+ years relevant experience with C, C++ * 7+ years experience as Embedded Engineer * Embedded Software Development: Design ...

Embedded Software Engineer

Irvine, CA ยท On-site

$141K - $185K/yr

Embedded Software Engineer Location: Irvine, California (onsite) Duration: Long Term Contract ... Develop and maintain embedded applications using C/C++ . * Work closely with hardware teams on ...

Embedded Software Engineer

Irvine, CA ยท On-site

$141K - $185K/yr

Job Title: Embedded Software Engineer Location: Irvine, California, 100% onsite (In-Person ... Develop and maintain embedded applications using C/C++. * Work closely with hardware teams on board ...

Sr Embedded Platform Engineer

Irvine, CA ยท On-site

$110K - $151K/yr

Platform engineer should be low level can develop drivers and has developed them in past. Key ... Embedded C/C++, Bare Metal * RTOS (FreeRTOS, VxWorks, ThreadX) * Driver Development, BSP ...

Embedded Engineer

Irvine, CA ยท On-site

$141K - $185K/yr

Embedded C/C++, Bare Metal RTOS (FreeRTOS, VxWorks, ThreadX) Driver Development, BSP, Middleware Board Bring-Up, JTAG, Lauterbach, Trace32 Firmware Debugging, Oscilloscope, Logic Analyzer TI C2000 ...

Embedded Engineer

Irvine, CA ยท On-site

$141K - $185K/yr

Key Skills: โ€ข Embedded C/C++, Bare Metal โ€ข RTOS (FreeRTOS, VxWorks, ThreadX) โ€ข Driver Development, BSP, Middleware โ€ข Board Bring-Up, JTAG, Lauterbach, Trace32 โ€ข Firmware Debugging ...

Embedded Software Engineer

El Segundo, CA ยท On-site

$120K - $175K/yr

EMBEDDED SOFTWARE ENGINEER - EL SEGUNDO, CA In this role, you are responsible for the development ... Design and develop flight software in embedded C in accordance with DO-178C DAL A. * Develop low ...

Embedded Software Engineer

El Segundo, CA ยท On-site

$120K - $175K/yr

EMBEDDED SOFTWARE ENGINEER - EL SEGUNDO, CA In this role, you are responsible for the development ... Design and develop flight software in embedded C in accordance with DO-178C DAL A. * Develop low ...

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Showing results 1-20

Embedded C Engineer information

See California salary details

$69.1K

$151.4K

$171.7K

How much do embedded c engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for embedded c engineer in California is $151,375.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $129,800.00 and $170,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an Embedded C engineer do?

An Embedded C Engineer is responsible for designing, developing, and maintaining software that runs on embedded systems, which are specialized computing devices within larger systems such as cars, medical devices, or household appliances. They primarily use the C programming language to write efficient, reliable code that interacts directly with hardware components. Their work often involves debugging, testing, and optimizing software for performance and resource constraints. Additionally, Embedded C Engineers collaborate with hardware engineers to ensure seamless integration between software and hardware components.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Embedded C engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Embedded C Engineer, you need strong proficiency in C programming, embedded systems design, and a solid understanding of microcontrollers and hardware interfaces, typically supported by a degree in electronics, computer engineering, or a related field. Familiarity with development tools like IDEs (e.g., Keil, IAR), debugging equipment (e.g., oscilloscopes, JTAG), and version control systems (e.g., Git) is essential, and certifications in embedded systems are advantageous. Analytical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication are key soft skills that help in troubleshooting and collaborating with cross-functional teams. These abilities ensure the delivery of reliable, efficient, and maintainable embedded solutions in fast-evolving technology environments.

What are some common challenges Embedded C engineers face when working on cross-functional teams?

Embedded C Engineers often collaborate closely with hardware designers, firmware developers, and system integrators. One common challenge is ensuring clear communication across disciplines, especially when hardware and software teams operate with different timelines or priorities. Additionally, debugging issues that span both hardware and software can be complex and time-consuming. Proactively documenting code, participating in regular team syncs, and developing strong problem-solving skills can help Embedded C Engineers navigate these challenges and contribute effectively.

What is the difference between Embedded C Engineer vs Firmware Engineer?

AspectEmbedded C EngineerFirmware Engineer
Primary FocusDeveloping embedded software using C for hardware devicesDesigning and implementing low-level software/firmware for hardware systems
Skills & CertificationsEmbedded C, microcontrollers, RTOS, hardware interfacingEmbedded C, microcontrollers, device drivers, hardware knowledge
Work EnvironmentEmbedded systems, hardware labs, manufacturingHardware/software integration, testing labs
Industry UsageConsumer electronics, automotive, IoTConsumer electronics, IoT, industrial equipment

Both roles involve embedded C programming and hardware interaction, but Embedded C Engineers focus more on developing software for embedded systems, while Firmware Engineers specialize in creating low-level firmware that directly controls hardware components. The roles often overlap, but the Firmware Engineer may have a deeper focus on hardware-level programming and device drivers.

Infographic showing various Embedded C Engineer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $151,375 per year, or $72.8 per hour.

Embedded Firmware Engineer (Embedded Systems)

Cupertino, CA โ€ข On-site

OSI Engineering, Inc.
Recruiting and Staffing Servicesย โ€ขย 51 - 200 employees

$53 - $66/hr

Other

Re-posted 17 days ago


Job description

Embedded Firmware Engineer (Embedded Systems)

Summary:

This role focuses on low-level embedded firmware development tightly coupled with hardware. The ideal candidate will develop, debug, and maintain embedded C firmware, work directly with hardware designs, and own firmware issues from identification through resolution in a fast paced, cross functional environment.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Develop, maintain, and debug low level embedded C firmware interacting directly with hardware.
  • Diagnose system and firmware issues across products and code branches.
  • Review schematics and validate firmware behavior against hardware design.
  • Generate engineering binaries, submit changes to repositories, and manage build and packaging workflows.
  • Coordinate closely with hardware, factory, program management, and technical teams.
  • Drive issues to closure by tracking tasks, evaluating priorities, and proactively removing blockers.
  • Communicate progress, risks, and outcomes clearly to stakeholders.
  • Participate in regular sync calls with China based teams during late afternoon or evening hours.

Required Skills & Experience:

  • Up to 10 years of relevant embedded firmware and driver development
  • Strong Embedded C experience, including low level debugging skills and knowledge of dynamic memory allocation
  • Strong embedded C experience with solid low level debugging skills
  • Recent experience with hardware design concepts and ability to read schematics
  • Strong knowledge with interfaces such as GPIO, SPI, I2C. USB (high speed)
  • Python and or Lua scripting to automate testing and debug workflows
  • Create scripts and tools to improve efficiency and reliability of firmware validation
  • Strong communication, organization, and multitasking skills
  • BS in Computer Engineering or equivalent experience, MS is a plus

Type: Full Time

Location: Cupertino, CA (Onsite Monday thru Friday)

Pay Rate Range: $53-$66/h (DOE)

Submit resumes to

Diane Chen

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