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Embedded Hardware Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

This role involves working closely with hardware, systems, and FPGA engineers, and provides ... Develop and port embedded Linux applications, device drivers, and libraries. * Configure, customize ...

Embedded HW/SW Engineer - Distributed Weather Sensor Networks Location: Long Beach Team ... Hardware Engineering Level: Individual Contributor (2-4 years experience) Type: Fulltime Why this ...

This role involves working closely with hardware, systems, and FPGA engineers, and provides ... Develop and port embedded Linux applications, device drivers, and libraries. * Configure, customize ...

Hardware Engineer

Mountain View, CA · On-site

$145K - $192K/yr

You've successfully tested and debugged embedded hardware before, from early development to field support. • Technical Know-How: You understand how to collect electrical measurements, use lab ...

Showing results 41-60

Embedded Hardware information

See California salary details

$70.6K

$128.3K

$179.6K

How much do embedded hardware jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for embedded hardware in California is $128,344.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $99,200.00 and $154,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an embedded hardware?

An Embedded Hardware job involves designing, developing, and testing hardware components for embedded systems, which are specialized computing devices within larger systems. Engineers in this role work with microcontrollers, processors, circuit boards, and various peripherals to ensure efficient and reliable operation. They collaborate with software engineers to integrate hardware with embedded firmware for applications in industries like automotive, healthcare, consumer electronics, and industrial automation. Strong knowledge of circuit design, PCB layout, and debugging tools is essential for success in this field.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in embedded hardware?

To excel in Embedded Hardware roles, you need a strong background in electrical engineering, circuit design, and experience with microcontrollers and hardware debugging, often supported by a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with tools such as oscilloscopes, PCB layout software (like Altium or Eagle), and hardware description languages, along with certifications like IPC or specific vendor training, is highly valued. Excellent problem-solving skills, effective communication, and the ability to work collaboratively are critical soft skills in this field. Mastery of these skills ensures reliable hardware development, supports efficient troubleshooting, and enables smooth teamwork throughout the product lifecycle.

What are the most common challenges faced by embedded hardware engineers, and how are they addressed?

Embedded Hardware engineers often face challenges such as tight project deadlines, component availability constraints, and the need to integrate hardware with complex firmware or software systems. These issues are generally addressed through careful project planning, proactive communication with suppliers and cross-functional teams, and effective use of prototyping and testing methodologies. Many teams foster a collaborative environment where regular design reviews and troubleshooting sessions allow engineers to share knowledge and address complex problems together. Staying current with emerging technologies and best practices also helps engineers adapt and resolve challenges efficiently.

Is embedded hardware still a good career?

Embedded hardware engineering remains a strong career choice due to ongoing demand for devices in industries like automotive, healthcare, and consumer electronics. Professionals in this field should have skills in microcontrollers, firmware development, and tools like C/C++ and oscilloscopes, with job stability driven by technological innovation and IoT growth.

What does an embedded hardware engineer do?

An embedded hardware engineer designs, develops, and tests electronic circuits and systems used in embedded devices such as microcontrollers, sensors, and communication modules. They work with schematic design, PCB layout, and hardware debugging, often using tools like oscilloscopes and CAD software, to ensure reliable performance of embedded systems in various applications.

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

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

What job categories do people searching Embedded Hardware jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Embedded Hardware jobs in California are:

Infographic showing various Embedded Hardware job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $128,344 per year, or $61.7 per hour.

Embedded Software Engineer - Platform & Firmware

Pivotal Systems

Fremont, CA • On-site

$122K - $167K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 10 days ago


Job description

Embedded Software Engineer (Platform & Firmware)


Overview:

We are seeking an Embedded Software Engineer (Platform & Firmware) to design, develop, and test software that interfaces directly with hardware, such as microcontrollers and processors in embedded systems. This role focuses on foundational software development, including drivers, bootloaders, and firmware, using C, C++, and assembly to manage system resources and optimize device performance.

You will need a deep understanding of computer architecture, hardware-software integration, and low-level debugging. As a core member of our software engineering team, you will collaborate closely with embedded software and hardware engineers to deliver high-performance, reliable systems.


Key Responsibilities:

Develop Low-Level Software: Write and maintain firmware, bootloaders, and device drivers for embedded hardware platforms.

Optimize Performance: Ensure code efficiency and performance on resource-constrained systems (limited memory, CPU, power).

Hardware-Software Integration: Collaborate with hardware teams to validate and troubleshoot system-level issues.

Debug and Test: Use tools like oscilloscopes, logic analyzers, and in-circuit debuggers to identify and resolve issues at the hardware/software boundary.

System Resource Management: Implement low-level system features such as power management, memory allocation, and communication protocols (SPI, I2C, UART, etc.).

Required Skills and Qualifications:

Proficiency in C, C++, and assembly language for embedded development.

Strong understanding of microcontrollers, processors, and memory management.

Experience with device trees, real-time operating systems (RTOS), and device driver development.

Skilled in using low-level debugging tools: oscilloscopes, logic analyzers, JTAG, ICE, etc.

Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills to address complex hardware/software integration issues.

Bachelor's or Master's degree in Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or Computer Science.

Preferred skills:


The ideal candidate will also have:

Experience with EtherCAT technology

CAN ecosystem Software: DeviceNet or CANopen stacks

Embedded Linux Platform Software: Device tree, init/system services, userspace
deamons, kernal Diagnostic tooling: Python utilities for log parsing and packet/trace inspection

PLC familiarity: (software and hardware)