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Embedded Developer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Position: Junior Embedded Developer Location: Milpitas, CA Long Term Contract with Full-Time Hire as an option Unable to provide sponsorship for this role. Job Summary We are seeking a highly ...

Embedded Developer Location: San Bruno, CA Mode: TP Interview date: 11/02/2017( Saturday)at Sunnyvale, CA JD: Technical Solution Engineer to work with Client OEM Partners to help develop Consumer ...

Company Description Technical Solution Engineer to work with Client OEM Partners to help develop Consumer Electronics Products Skills: * 8 - 10 years of Embedded Software development Experience on ...

Embedded Engineer

Irvine, CA · 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 ...

Sr. Embedded Engineer

Foster City, CA · On-site

$141K - $185K/yr

NAVA Software solutions is looking for a Sr. Embedded Engineer Details: Sr. Embedded Engineer Location: Foster City CA (1-2 days/week onsite) Duration: Full time /Direct Hire Looking for a Senior ...

Software Engineer, Embedded

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$154K - $203K/yr

We are looking for an Embedded Software Engineer with a background in embedded systems who is passionate to ship mission critical software. The role will collaborate across hardware and software ...

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Embedded Developer information

See California salary details

$36.5K

$127.4K

$393.8K

How much do embedded developer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for embedded developer in California is $127,403.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $84,900.00 and $131,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an embedded developer?

Embedded Developers are software engineers who design, develop, and maintain software that runs on embedded systems—specialized computing devices that are part of larger mechanical or electrical systems. These systems often have real-time computing constraints and are found in products like cars, medical devices, consumer electronics, and industrial machines. Embedded Developers work closely with hardware components and typically use programming languages such as C, C++, or assembly. Their work ensures that the embedded devices operate efficiently, reliably, and safely.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an embedded developer?

To thrive as an Embedded Developer, you need strong programming skills in C/C++, a solid understanding of microcontrollers, embedded systems architecture, and typically a degree in computer engineering or a related field. Familiarity with real-time operating systems (RTOS), debugging tools (e.g., JTAG, oscilloscopes), and experience with version control systems like Git are commonly required. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication are standout soft skills for this role. These skills and qualities are essential for developing reliable, efficient, and safe embedded solutions that meet both technical and user requirements.

What are some common challenges embedded developers face when integrating hardware and software components?

Embedded Developers often encounter challenges such as ensuring real-time performance, managing limited system resources (like memory and processing power), and debugging hardware-software interactions. These tasks require strong problem-solving skills and a solid understanding of both hardware schematics and programming. Collaboration with electrical engineers and testing teams is also vital, as seamless integration depends on clear communication and coordinated troubleshooting.

What is the difference between Embedded Developer vs Firmware Engineer?

AspectEmbedded DeveloperFirmware Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or related fields; knowledge of C/C++, RTOSBachelor's in Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or related fields; expertise in C/C++, hardware interfaces
Work EnvironmentEmbedded systems development, often on microcontrollers or embedded platformsDeveloping low-level firmware for hardware devices, often on microcontrollers or SoCs
Employer & Industry UsageElectronics, automotive, consumer devices, IoTConsumer electronics, automotive, industrial equipment, IoT

Embedded Developers and Firmware Engineers share similar skills and work environments, focusing on embedded systems and hardware integration. However, Embedded Developers often work on application-level software within embedded systems, while Firmware Engineers focus on low-level firmware that directly interacts with hardware components. Both roles are essential in the development of embedded products, with overlapping credentials and industry usage.

Is embedded developer a good career?

Embedded developers design and implement software for embedded systems such as IoT devices, automotive controls, and consumer electronics. The role offers strong job demand, competitive salaries, and opportunities to work with hardware and real-time operating systems, making it a viable career choice for those with programming skills in C, C++, and hardware knowledge.

What are the most commonly searched types of Embedded Developer jobs in California?

The most popular types of Embedded Developer jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Embedded Developer jobs?

Cities in California with the most Embedded Developer job openings:

Infographic showing various Embedded Developer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 79% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 13% Contract. Highlights an 81% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $127,403 per year, or $61.3 per hour.

Embedded Developer

Milpitas, CA • On-site

Other

Posted 7 days ago


Job description

Position: Junior Embedded Developer

Location: Milpitas, CA

Long Term Contract with Full-Time Hire as an option


Unable to provide sponsorship for this role.


Job Summary

We are seeking a highly motivated Junior Embedded Middleware Engineer to join our engineering team in Milpitas, California. The ideal candidate will have 1 to 3 years of experience in software development, strong programming skills in C/C++, Embedded, Firmware, working knowledge of QNX-based systems, and exposure to software testing and validation activities. The candidate should possess a positive attitude, strong problem-solving skills, and a willingness to learn and explore new technologies in a fast-paced product development environment.


Key Responsibilities

  • Design, develop, enhance, and maintain middleware software components for embedded and real-time systems.
  • Develop software using C, C++, Embedded Firmware following coding standards and best practices.
  • Participate in middleware integration activities across operating systems, applications, and hardware platforms.
  • Work with QNX RTOS environments and support system-level software development activities.


Required Technical Skills

Strong programming skills in:

  • C
  • C++
  • Firmware
  • QNX RTOS

Basic to intermediate knowledge of QNX RTOS.