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Embedded Microcontroller Engineer Jobs in San Diego, CA

Trimble

Hardware Development Engineer

San Diego, CA

$131K - $173K/yr

The Trimble receivers are deeply embedded in inertial navigation subsystems. The Hardware ... Experience with complex power supply control architectures and microcontroller programming. * RF ...

Netradyne

Senior Vehicle Data Bus Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$110K - $152K/yr

Debug and modify embedded software/code directly on Device CAN device to resolve CAN Bus ... Expertise in C/C++ programming, microcontroller bring-up, and firmware development with interfaces ...

Qualcomm

Staff Camera Systems Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$148K - $222K/yr

Embedded low level camera driver design and development, work throughout the firmware life cycle ... Experienced with microcontroller architecture, RTOS, and/or ARM architecture. * Familiarity with ...

Netradyne

Senior Vehicle Data Bus Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$110K - $152K/yr

Debug and modify embedded software/code directly on Device CAN device to resolve CAN Bus ... Expertise in C/C++ programming, microcontroller bring-up, and firmware development with interfaces ...

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All JobsEmbedded Microcontroller Engineer JobsEmbedded Microcontroller Engineer Jobs in San Diego, CA

Embedded Microcontroller Engineer information

See San Diego, CA salary details

$74.3K

$162.8K

$184.7K

How much do embedded microcontroller engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for embedded microcontroller engineer in San Diego, CA is $162,849.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $139,600.00 and $183,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an embedded microcontroller engineer do?

An Embedded Microcontroller Engineer designs, develops, and tests systems that use microcontrollers to perform specific functions within larger electronic devices. They write firmware (software that runs directly on hardware), integrate hardware and software components, and troubleshoot issues to ensure reliable operation. These engineers work on products like automotive systems, consumer electronics, medical devices, and industrial machinery. Their role often involves optimizing code for performance and memory constraints, as well as collaborating closely with hardware and software teams.

What are some common challenges an embedded microcontroller engineer faces when integrating hardware and software components?

Embedded Microcontroller Engineers often encounter challenges in synchronizing hardware with software, especially when dealing with timing constraints and resource limitations. Debugging issues can be complex, as problems may arise from either the code or the physical hardware. Additionally, ensuring compatibility between different components and maintaining system stability during updates require strong problem-solving skills and close collaboration with hardware designers and firmware developers.

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

AspectEmbedded Microcontroller EngineerFirmware Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's in Electrical, Computer Engineering or related; certifications like ARM or embedded systems coursesBachelor's in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering; certifications in embedded systems or programming languages
Work EnvironmentDesigning and testing microcontroller-based systems, often in hardware labs or development environmentsDeveloping low-level code for devices, often in software development environments
Industry UsageConsumer electronics, automotive, industrial automationConsumer electronics, IoT devices, embedded systems

Both roles involve embedded systems, but Embedded Microcontroller Engineers focus more on hardware integration and microcontroller-specific development, while Firmware Engineers concentrate on writing low-level code to control hardware functions. The roles often overlap, but their primary focus and work environments differ slightly.

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

To thrive as an Embedded Microcontroller Engineer, you need strong proficiency in C/C++ programming, embedded systems design, and a degree in electrical engineering, computer engineering, or a related field. Familiarity with development tools such as debuggers, oscilloscopes, version control systems (e.g., Git), and experience with microcontroller families like ARM, PIC, or AVR are typically required. Analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective problem-solving skills help you excel in troubleshooting and optimizing embedded systems. These skills and qualifications are vital to ensure the reliability, efficiency, and functionality of hardware-software integrations in complex electronic products.
What are popular job titles related to Embedded Microcontroller Engineer jobs in San Diego, CA? For Embedded Microcontroller Engineer jobs in San Diego, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
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What cities near San Diego, CA are hiring for Embedded Microcontroller Engineer jobs? Cities near San Diego, CA with the most Embedded Microcontroller Engineer job openings:
Embedded Microcontroller Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Embedded Microcontroller Engineer job openings in San Diego, CA as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 72% Full Time, and 28% Part Time. Highlights an 85% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $162,849 per year, or $78.3 per hour.

Senior Embedded Software Development Engineer

Qualcomm

San Diego, CA • On-site

$130K - $166K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 14 days ago

Qualcomm rating

8.8

Company rating: 8.8 out of 10

Based on 11 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

51st of 242 rated software companies

Job description

Company:
Qualcomm Technologies, Inc.
Job Area:
Engineering Group, Engineering Group > Software Engineering
General Summary:
This individual independently plans, performs the moderately-defined responsibility for the design, driver development, integration, test, debugging and validation of real time embedded software, embedded RTOS environment, embedded systems, embedded microcontroller firmware, communication protocols and platforms for wireless chipsets including features enabled by 3G, 4G, 5G, AI and/or other current and future technologies. Develops and debugs platforms in-addition to on target development. Identifies, evaluates and implements tools and processes to continually improve the software development process. Provides support on customer issues and requirements to Software Application Engineers by providing input to project planning and timescales. Creates engineering documentation for intellectual property, prepares technical specifications and requirements. Acts as a strong contributor at design reviews and project meetings.
Will accept a Master's Degree (or foreign academic equivalent) in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Science or related degree field.
Salary Range: $130,187.00 - $166,900.00/year
Applicants: Qualcomm is an equal opportunity employer. If you are an individual with a disability and need an accommodation during the application/hiring process, rest assured that Qualcomm is committed to providing an accessible process. You may e-mail disability-accomodations@qualcomm.com or call Qualcomm's toll-free number found here. Upon request, Qualcomm will provide reasonable accommodations to support individuals with disabilities to be able participate in the hiring process. Qualcomm is also committed to making our workplace accessible for individuals with disabilities. (Keep in mind that this email address is used to provide reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities. We will not respond here to requests for updates on applications or resume inquiries).
To all Staffing and Recruiting Agencies: Our Careers Site is only for individuals seeking a job at Qualcomm. Staffing and recruiting agencies and individuals being represented by an agency are not authorized to use this site or to submit profiles, applications or resumes, and any such submissions will be considered unsolicited. Qualcomm does not accept unsolicited resumes or applications from agencies. Please do not forward resumes to our jobs alias, Qualcomm employees or any other company location. Qualcomm is not responsible for any fees related to unsolicited resumes/applications.
EEO Employer: Qualcomm is an equal opportunity employer; all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, Veteran status, or any other protected classification.
Qualcomm expects its employees to abide by all applicable policies and procedures, including but not limited to security and other requirements regarding protection of Company confidential information and other confidential and/or proprietary information, to the extent those requirements are permissible under applicable law.
If you would like more information about this role, please contact Qualcomm Careers.

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About Qualcomm

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Qualcomm is enabling a world where everyone and everything can be intelligently connected. You interact with products and technologies made possible by Qualcomm every day, including 5G-enabled smartphones that double as pro-level cameras and gaming devices, smarter vehicles and cities, and the technology behind the smart, connected factories that manufactured your latest purchase. Our powerful connectivity solutions keep you connected—even in remote areas. Qualcomm 5G and AI innovations are the power behind the connected intelligent edge. You’ll find our technologies behind and inside the innovations that deliver significant value across multiple industries and to billions of people every day.

Industry

Technology, communication and media

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

San Diego, CA, US

Year founded

1985

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