1

Embedded Linux Developer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

About this position SeeScan is seeking a Software Engineer with strong experience in embedded Linux development. You will be responsible for a mix of driver, middleware and application development on ...

Strong problem-solving skills and a solid understanding of C/C++ programming * Proven experience in software development for Linux and embedded systems * Experience working with CI/CD pipelines and ...

Help secure our embedded Linux systems * Closely collaborate with firmware engineers on low‑level protocols and software updates to microcontrollers. * Develop platform software for rapid and ...

Strong problem-solving skills and a solid understanding of C/C++ programming * Proven experience in software development for Linux and embedded systems * Experience working with CI/CD pipelines and ...

... DevOps & CI/CD • Design and maintain CI/CD pipelines (GitLab/GitHub Actions) that automate image ... embedded Linux. • 2+ years of experience with build tools such as Make and CMake. • Strong ...

Showing results 21-40

Embedded Linux Developer information

See California salary details

$84.4K

$109K

$135.7K

How much do embedded linux developer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for embedded linux developer in California is $108,993.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $99,700.00 and $116,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an embedded Linux developer?

Embedded Linux Developers are software engineers who specialize in designing, developing, and maintaining software for embedded systems that run on the Linux operating system. These professionals work on devices such as routers, IoT devices, automotive systems, and industrial machines, integrating Linux-based solutions tailored to hardware constraints. Their responsibilities include configuring the Linux kernel, developing device drivers, optimizing system performance, and ensuring reliable communication between hardware and software components. They must be proficient in C/C++, scripting, and have a strong understanding of Linux internals and embedded hardware.

What does an embedded Linux developer do?

As an embedded Linux developer, your duties and responsibilities are to design, test, implement, and integrate software solutions for specific pieces of hardware. Embedded technology often refers to hardware that is not commonly considered a computer, but is controlled by applications or an operating system, such as Linux. These include watches, car engines, and televisions, for example. As an embedded Linux developer, you work closely with programmers, optimization experts, quality assurance technicians, and product engineering designers, as well as all of your external customers.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an embedded Linux developer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Embedded Linux Developer, you need a solid understanding of Linux internals, C/C++ programming, and embedded systems architecture, typically supported by a degree in computer science or electrical engineering. Familiarity with build systems (like Yocto or Buildroot), version control (Git), and debugging tools (GDB, oscilloscope) is crucial. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective teamwork help set outstanding developers apart in this role. These abilities ensure reliable, efficient embedded solutions that meet complex technical requirements and integrate seamlessly into larger systems.

What are some common challenges faced by embedded Linux developers when integrating hardware and software components?

Embedded Linux Developers often encounter challenges such as managing hardware-software compatibility, optimizing system performance, and troubleshooting driver issues. Working closely with hardware engineers, they must ensure that the Linux kernel and device drivers are correctly configured to communicate with custom hardware. Debugging can be complex due to limited system resources and the need for real-time performance. Effective collaboration and strong problem-solving skills are essential for resolving these integration challenges.

What is the difference between Embedded Linux Developer vs Firmware Engineer?

AspectEmbedded Linux DeveloperFirmware Engineer
Required SkillsProficiency in Linux kernel, C/C++, embedded systems, device driversLow-level programming, C/C++, microcontrollers, hardware interfaces
Work EnvironmentEmbedded Linux systems, development boards, Linux-based OSMicrocontrollers, hardware prototyping, real-time systems
Industry UsageConsumer electronics, IoT devices, automotiveConsumer electronics, aerospace, industrial equipment

Embedded Linux Developers focus on developing software for Linux-based embedded systems, working with Linux kernels and device drivers. Firmware Engineers work on low-level hardware programming, often with microcontrollers and real-time systems. While both roles require C/C++ skills and embedded systems knowledge, Embedded Linux Developers typically work in Linux environments, whereas Firmware Engineers focus on hardware-level programming.

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

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

Infographic showing various Embedded Linux Developer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 10% Contract. Highlights an 80% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 15% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $108,993 per year, or $52.4 per hour.

Embedded Linux Software Engineer

SeeScan

San Diego, CA • On-site

$105K - $155K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 10 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Develop middleware and user applications based on C/C++.

  • Write device drivers for the Linux kernel and develop or customize board support packages (BSP) for hardware.

  • Participate in software architecture discussions and stay current with best practices to identify opportunities for improvement.


Job description

About this position
SeeScan is seeking a Software Engineer with strong experience in embedded Linux development. You will be responsible for a mix of driver, middleware and application development on a variety of embedded hardware platforms.
This is a fully onsite position located in Kearny Mesa.
Compensation
The salary range for this position is $105,000 to $155,000 annually.
This range represents a good faith estimate based on the qualifications we expect to find in a successful candidate. Actual compensation offered may be less or greater than this estimate based on a variety of factors, including, but not limited to, our assessment of your ability to bring value to our organization.
We offer
  • A position within an established company that has over 40 years of experience
  • Medical, dental, and vision coverage
  • Traditional and Roth 401(k) investment options, with partial company matching contribution
  • Flexible Paid Time Off plan with no cap or "use it or lose it" requirement

In your application, include your resume and a thoughtful cover letter explaining why you are the ideal candidate for this position. We are looking for a long-term, in-house teammate to join us, not a contractor or consultant.
In this position, you will
  • Develop middleware and user applications, usually based on C/C++
  • Write device drivers for the Linux kernel
  • Develop or customize board support packages (BSP) for our hardware to provide additional functionality, e.g. software updates, security, and optimization
  • Be an active participant in software architecture discussions
  • Stay current with latest best practices, and identify opportunities for technology, tool, and process improvement

About you
  • Strong C/C++ development skills
  • Thorough knowledge of OS coding techniques, interfaces, and hardware subsystems
  • Experience with embedded Linux
  • Familiarity with software configuration management tools, defect tracking tools, and peer review
  • Strong documentation and writing skills
  • Adaptable life-long learner with experience in emerging technologies

Other helpful skills
  • Experience developing applications with high data throughput and low latency
  • Experience with D-Bus/Networking/Wi-Fi
  • Experience working with Yocto
  • Familiarity with web front-end and back-end technologies

Education and experience
  • BS degree in computer science, computer engineering, or similar with relevant experience
  • At least two years of experience in hands-on development and troubleshooting using Linux on embedded systems

About SeeScan
Modern life depends on the infrastructure that brings water, electricity, gas, and communications services to our homes and businesses. SeeScan's mission is to deliver the highest quality products that protect these vital services. We are an original equipment manufacturer in San Diego, CA that builds diagnostic and utility locating equipment from the ground up, from initial product conception to prototyping, testing, and final assembly.
At SeeScan, you'll be part of a group of people who bring passion and energy into everything they do. We value the individual contributions all of our employees make and invest in the tools and training they need to find success and professional growth. We do our best to empower the right people to take on new opportunities, and our culture promotes transparency, integrity, and continuous learning.
Notes
  • No recruiters, contractors, or consultants, please
  • No relocation assistance or visa sponsorships available for this position
  • SeeScan is an Equal Opportunity Employer