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Embedded Security Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Software Engineer - Embedded Systems

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$154K - $203K/yr

... from security incidents (e.g. perimeter intrusion, theft, LPR), to safety monitoring (e.g. PPE ... The Role Specter is hiring an Embedded Software Engineer to own the full on-device software stack ...

About the role As an embedded security engineer on the Device Security Team, you'll work with an amazing team of security, firmware, and backend engineers entrusted with the mission of protecting our ...

Embedded security and cryptographic firmware development Compensation: At Skydio, our compensation packages for regular, full-time employees include competitive base salaries, equity in the form of ...

Senior Embedded Engineer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$146K - $191K/yr

Experience with embedded security and/or automotive security * MISRA C/C++ compliance and static analysis tooling * Python for test automation and scripting * Familiarity with HARA, FMEA, and safety ...

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Embedded Security information

See California salary details

$69.1K

$151.4K

$171.7K

How much do embedded security jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for embedded security in California is $151,375.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $129,800.00 and $170,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What engineer makes $500,000 a year?

Senior embedded security engineers with extensive experience, specialized skills in cryptography and hardware security modules, and often certifications like CISSP can earn salaries approaching or exceeding $500,000 annually, especially in high-demand industries or senior leadership roles. Such compensation typically reflects a combination of technical expertise, leadership responsibilities, and working in competitive or high-cost regions.

Can you make $500,000 a year in cyber security?

In the field of embedded security, reaching a $500,000 annual salary is possible but typically requires senior roles such as security architects or executives with extensive experience, advanced certifications, and leadership responsibilities. Most cybersecurity professionals earn lower salaries, but high-level specialists in niche areas or those in management positions can achieve top-tier compensation.

Can you make $200,000 in cyber security?

Embedded security professionals can potentially earn $200,000 or more annually, especially with advanced skills, certifications like CISSP or CISA, and experience in high-demand areas such as secure software development or threat analysis. Salaries vary based on location, industry, and level of expertise, with senior roles and specialized skills commanding higher pay.

What are some typical challenges encountered in an Embedded Security role?

Professionals in Embedded Security frequently face the challenge of balancing robust security measures with the resource limitations of embedded devices, such as limited processing power and memory. They may also need to address legacy system integrations, evolving threat landscapes, and compliance with industry-specific security standards. Collaboration with hardware engineers, firmware developers, and product managers is common to ensure security is integrated throughout the development lifecycle. By staying current with emerging vulnerabilities and designing proactive solutions, Embedded Security specialists play a key role in protecting products and end users.

What is an Embedded Security job?

An Embedded Security job focuses on protecting embedded systems, such as IoT devices, medical equipment, or automotive control units, from cyber threats. Professionals in this role design secure firmware, implement cryptographic protocols, conduct vulnerability assessments, and ensure compliance with security standards. They work closely with hardware and software teams to integrate security features while maintaining performance and reliability.

Does embedded systems pay well?

Embedded security professionals typically earn competitive salaries due to the specialized skills required, such as knowledge of hardware, firmware, and security protocols. Salaries vary based on experience, location, and certifications, but overall, the field offers strong compensation compared to many other tech roles.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Embedded Security position, and why are they important?

To thrive in Embedded Security, you need a strong background in embedded systems engineering, knowledge of cryptography, and expertise in securing hardware and firmware, often supported by a degree in computer engineering, electrical engineering, or computer science. Familiarity with security tools like static code analyzers, secure boot processes, and protocols such as TLS/SSL is common, along with certifications like CISSP or CEH. Excellent problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and strong collaboration skills help set professionals apart. These abilities are crucial for identifying and mitigating vulnerabilities in embedded devices, ensuring robust protection in increasingly connected and critical environments.

What are the most commonly searched types of Embedded Security jobs in California? The most popular types of Embedded Security jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Embedded Security jobs? Cities in California with the most Embedded Security job openings:
Infographic showing various Embedded Security job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 89% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $151,375 per year, or $72.8 per hour.
Embedded Security Engineer (Starlink)

Embedded Security Engineer (Starlink)

SpaceX

Hawthorne, CA

$150K - $180K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 4 days ago


SpaceX rating

8.8

Company rating: 8.8 out of 10

Based on 146 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

7th of 61 rated aerospace companies


Job description

EMBEDDED SECURITY ENGINEER (STARLINK)

At SpaceX we're leveraging our experience in building rockets and spacecraft to deploy Starlink, the world's most advanced broadband internet system. Starlink is the world's largest satellite constellation and is providing fast, reliable internet to millions of users worldwide. We design, build, test, and operate all parts of the system - thousands of satellites, consumer receivers that allow users to connect within minutes of unboxing, and the software that brings it all together. We've only begun to scratch the surface of Starlink's potential global impact and are looking for best-in-class engineers to help maximize Starlink's utility for communities and businesses around the globe.

As a Security Software Engineer you will influence the security of software across our product lines. We are looking for people with a track record of shipping reliable software and who have a broad understanding of the security design of today's Internet, including the cryptographic primitives involved. You see the big picture, prioritize accordingly, and are comfortable with working at different levels of abstraction. Ideally, you have notable skills in one or more of the following:

  • Software engineering
  • Applied cryptography
  • Network security
  • Operating system security
  • Secure/Authenticated boot
  • Incident response and adversary detection
  • Vulnerability research

Being flexible, communicating clearly, and establishing and maintaining productive working relationships with other engineering teams are paramount to success. If you are passionate about building quality products, love the challenges of outsmarting adversaries, and want to make an impact on an inter-planetary scale, then you will fit right in.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Design and build security infrastructure for Starlink, including cryptographic services and other security-critical services
  • Develop security features for Starlink systems, including our router, dish, gateways, and satellites
  • Design security into factory processes and provide network services in support of this
  • Maintain existing production systems and improve security posture via both direct implementation and recommendations to other teams
  • Build prototypes and help identify, design, and test security improvements
  • Further our mission of providing secure and reliable Internet to underserved communities

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:

  • Bachelor's degree in computer science or another STEM discipline; OR 2+ years of professional experience in security software development in lieu of a degree
  • Experience with Python, C/C++ or Golang
  • Experience designing and implementing security solutions for operating systems, distributed systems, or other business infrastructure 

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:

  • Experience contributing security improvements to complex systems
  • Experience working with special purpose security hardware such as Trusted Platform Modules (TPMs) and Hardware Security Modules (HSMs)
  • Fundamental understanding of network protocols; including the TCP/IP stack as well as UDP based protocols
  • Experienced in navigating large, complex, interactive systems
  • Flexibility, communicating clearly, and establishing and maintaining productive working relationships with other engineering teams
  • Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal
  • Ability to work both independently and in a team
  • Demonstrated ability to deal with ambiguity and to learn new technologies quickly
  • Advanced degree in a technical or engineering discipline

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

  • Must be willing to work extended hours and weekends as needed
COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS:
Pay Range:
Level 1: $130,000.00 - $155,000.00
Level 2: $150,000.00 - $180,000.00

Your actual level and base salary will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on the following considerations: job-related knowledge and skills, education, and experience.

Base salary is just one part of your total rewards package at SpaceX. You may also be eligible for long-term incentives, in the form of company stock or long-term cash awards, as well as potential discretionary bonuses and the ability to purchase additional stock at a discount through an Employee Stock Purchase Plan. You will also receive access to comprehensive medical, vision, and dental coverage, access to a 401(k) retirement plan, short and long-term disability insurance, life insurance, paid parental leave, and various other discounts and perks. You may also accrue 3 weeks of paid vacation and will be eligible for 10 or more paid holidays per year. Employees accrue paid sick leave pursuant to Company policy which satisfies or exceeds the accrual, carryover, and use requirements of the law.


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