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Embedded Firmware Jobs in Massachusetts (NOW HIRING)

Embedded Software Engineer, Mobile Robotics

Reading, MA ยท On-site

$138K - $182K/yr

In this role, you will develop embedded firmware on heterogeneous multi-core MCU/CPU/GPU platforms - writing real-time safety applications, sensor processing pipelines, and system interfaces that ...

Embedded Software Engineer

Westborough, MA

$135K - $178K/yr

You'll work within existing embedded firmware and desktop software codebases to implement new features, improve reliability, and support product release activities. This is a hands-on opportunity ...

You'll work within existing embedded firmware and desktop software codebases to implement new features, improve reliability, and support product release activities. This is a hands-on opportunity ...

Embedded Software Engineer

Westborough, MA ยท On-site

$83 - $165/hr

You'll work within existing embedded firmware and desktop software codebases to implement new features, improve reliability, and support product release activities. This is a hands-on opportunity ...

Embedded Software Engineer

Lexington, MA ยท Hybrid

$70 - $95/hr

Involved in specifications, design and development of embedded firmware in engineering projects. Analyzes and enhances efficiency, stability and scalability of system resources. Integrate and ...

Embedded Software Engineer

Lexington, MA ยท On-site

$70 - $95/hr

Involved in specifications, design and development of embedded firmware in engineering projects. Analyzes and enhances efficiency, stability and scalability of system resources. Integrate and ...

Embedded Software Engineer

Lexington, MA ยท On-site

$70 - $95/hr

Involved in specifications, design and development of embedded firmware in engineering projects. Analyzes and enhances efficiency, stability and scalability of system resources. Integrate and ...

Showing results 41-60

Embedded Firmware information

See Massachusetts salary details

$80.3K

$133.2K

$179.1K

How much do embedded firmware jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for embedded firmware in Massachusetts is $133,247.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $112,500.00 and $154,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an embedded firmware engineer?

Embedded firmware engineers are professionals who design, develop, and maintain the low-level software (firmware) that controls hardware devices. Their work involves writing code that directly interfaces with microcontrollers or processors, enabling devices such as appliances, automotive systems, medical devices, and consumer electronics to function as intended. They often work closely with hardware engineers to ensure seamless integration between hardware and software, optimizing performance and reliability. Embedded firmware engineers typically use programming languages like C or C++ and have a deep understanding of both hardware and software systems.

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

To thrive as an Embedded Firmware Engineer, you need a strong background in computer engineering or electrical engineering, with expertise in C/C++ programming, microcontroller architectures, and hardware-software integration. Familiarity with tools like debuggers, oscilloscopes, version control systems (e.g., Git), and industry certifications such as Certified Embedded Systems Engineer can be beneficial. Problem-solving, attention to detail, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for diagnosing issues and collaborating with cross-functional teams. These skills and qualities are vital for developing reliable, efficient firmware that meets product requirements and ensures seamless operation of embedded devices.

What are some common challenges faced by embedded firmware engineers, and how can they be addressed?

Embedded firmware engineers often encounter challenges such as resource constraints, debugging hardware-software interactions, and ensuring real-time performance. Working within limited memory and processing power requires efficient coding practices and thorough optimization. Additionally, close collaboration with hardware teams is essential to troubleshoot issues that may arise from tight integration with physical components. Staying updated with the latest tools and methodologies, along with strong problem-solving skills, helps address these challenges effectively.

What is the difference between Embedded Firmware vs Embedded Software Developer?

AspectEmbedded FirmwareEmbedded Software Developer
CredentialsTypically requires embedded systems or electronics background, often with certifications in embedded systemsRequires programming skills, often with degrees in computer science or software engineering
Work EnvironmentHardware-focused, working closely with microcontrollers, sensors, and hardware componentsSoftware-focused, developing applications that run on embedded systems
Industry UsageUsed in consumer electronics, automotive, medical devices, and industrial equipmentDevelops software for embedded systems across various industries

Embedded Firmware specialists focus on programming low-level code directly on hardware devices, often requiring hardware knowledge. Embedded Software Developers create higher-level software that runs on embedded systems, emphasizing coding and application development. Both roles are essential in embedded systems development but differ in scope and focus.

What job categories do people searching Embedded Firmware jobs in Massachusetts look for?

The top searched job categories for Embedded Firmware jobs in Massachusetts are:

What cities in Massachusetts are hiring for Embedded Firmware jobs?

Cities in Massachusetts with the most Embedded Firmware job openings:

Infographic showing various Embedded Firmware job openings in Massachusetts as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 84% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $133,247 per year, or $64.1 per hour.

Principal Firmware Engineer

MKS Instruments, Inc.

Andover, MA โ€ข On-site

$126K - $210K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 9 days ago


Job description

Principal Firmware Engineer
A Day in Your Life at MKS:
As a Principal Firmware Engineer on MKS's Valves Engineering team, you will play a critical technical leadership role within a highly collaborative, cross-functional environment. You will design and develop embedded firmware that powers advanced throttle valve products used in semiconductor manufacturing and other high-performance vacuum applications.
You Will Make an Impact By:
  • Leading the architecture, design, implementation, verification and validation of embedded firmware for complex control systems.
  • Collaborating closely with cross-functional team to understand customer requirements and deliver innovative solutions that enhance product performance and customer success.
  • Establishing and driving firmware development best practices, including coding standards, design reviews, and automated test frameworks.
  • Providing technical leadership, mentorship and guidance to firmware engineers across the organization.
  • Driving continuous improvement in firmware quality, reliability, and development efficiency.

Skills You Bring:
  • Education: BS, MS or PhD in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or a related field.
  • 10+ years of experience in embedded systems and firmware development, including control algorithms.
  • Demonstrated technical leadership with strong communication and cross-functional collaboration skills.
  • Strong proficiency in C and C++ programming for real-time embedded systems.
  • Expertise in debugging and system bring-up, using tools such as emulators, oscilloscopes, and communication bus analyzers.
  • Experience with version control systems and structured software release processes

Preferred Qualifications (Nice to Have):
  • Experience with industrial fieldbus protocols such as EtherCAT, DeviceNet, or similar.
  • Experience with motion control systems, including stepper motors and BLDC motors.
  • Strong understanding of feedback control theory, including PID control and tuning.
  • Experience with SPI, I2C, UART and other communication protocols.

Compensation and Benefits:
Salary Pay Range: $126,200.00 - 210,350.00 USD per year. This range is a good faith estimate of the expected salary range for this position, based on a wide range of factors including qualifications, experience and training, operational and business needs and other considerations permitted by law. At MKS, it is not typical for an individual to be hired at or near the top of the range for the role.
Bonus: This position is eligible for a discretionary annual bonus, in an amount to be determined by MKS [or as applicable].
Benefits: MKS offers a comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance coverage (medical, dental and vision), 401(k) with company match, life and disability insurance, 12 paid holidays, sick time, 15 paid vacation days, [6 weeks fully paid] parental leave, adoption assistance and tuition reimbursement [and for participation in any stock programs, signing bonus, etc.].
MKS is an equal opportunity employer, including disability, veteran status and all categories protected by law. Please review our EOE statements for additional details. MKS is generally only hiring candidates who reside in states where we are registered to do business.
#LI-RS1
Globally, our policy is to recruit individuals from wide and diverse backgrounds. However, certain positions require access to controlled goods and technologies subject to the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) or Export Administration Regulations (EAR). Applicants for these positions may need to be "U.S. persons." "U.S. persons" are generally defined as U.S. citizens, noncitizen nationals, lawful permanent residents (or, green card holders), individuals granted asylum, and individuals admitted as refugees.
MKS Inc. and its affiliates and subsidiaries ("MKS") is an affirmative action and equal opportunity employer: diverse candidates are encouraged to apply. We win as a team and are committed to recruiting and hiring qualified applicants regardless of race, color, national origin, sex (including pregnancy and pregnancy-related conditions), religion, age, ancestry, physical or mental disability or handicap, marital status, membership in the uniformed services, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetic information, or any other category protected by applicable law. Hiring decisions are based on merit, qualifications and business needs. We conduct background checks and drug screens, in accordance with applicable law and company policies. MKS is generally only hiring candidates who reside in states where we are registered to do business.
It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.
MKS is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities. If you need a reasonable accommodation during the application or interview process due to a disability, please contact us at: accommodationsatMKS@mksinst.com .
If applying for a specific job, please include the requisition number (ex: RXXXX), the title and location of the role