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Embedded Software Developer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Astrolab

Embedded Software Developer

Hawthorne, CA · On-site

Embedded Software Developer Application Deadline: 23 June 2026 Department: Software Engineering Employment Type: Full Time Location: Hawthorne, California Reporting To: Denise Brown Description ...

Astrolab

Embedded Software Engineer

Hawthorne, CA

$133.70K - $175.90K/yr

Astrolab is looking for embedded software developers to develop and test software for embedded computers on our extraplanetary rovers. Embedded developers will be responsible for architecting ...

Next Step Systems

Embedded Software Engineer

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

$154.40K - $203.20K/yr

The ideal Embedded Software Engineer will possess a solid foundation in software development ... Developer, Programmer Analyst, Programming, California Recruiters, Information Technology Jobs ...

Transcend Softech LLC

Embedded Software Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

$141.20K - $185.70K/yr

Embedded Software Engineer Location: Irvine, California (onsite) Duration: Long Term Contract/Full time option as well. Job Overview: We are looking for an experienced Embedded Software Engineer to ...

Resource Point LLC

Embedded Software Engineer

Carlsbad, CA · On-site

$136.40K - $179.50K/yr

Job Title: Embedded Software Engineer Location: Carlsbad, CA or Marlborough, MA Duration: 6+ Months This position is open to W-2 CANDIDATES ONLY who are authorized to work in the USA WITHOUT ...

TetraMem Inc

Embedded Software Engineer

San Jose, CA · On-site

$150K - $250K/yr

Requirements: • BS or MS in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or related field with 5+ years of experience in embedded system development. • Strong expertise in embedded software ...

Amtex Enterprises

Embedded Software Engineer

Carson, CA

$137.30K - $180.70K/yr

Embedded Software Engineer Location: Carson, CA - onsite Duration: 6+ Months only on w2 Required Qualifications Education * Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Electrical ...

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How much do embedded software developer jobs pay per hour?

As of May 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for embedded software developer in California is $60.91, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $49.09 and $68.80 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Embedded Software Developer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Embedded Software Developer, you need a strong understanding of programming languages like C/C++, experience with microcontroller architectures, and typically a degree in computer engineering or a related field. Familiarity with real-time operating systems (RTOS), debugging tools, and version control systems such as Git is often required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication set standout developers apart. These capabilities ensure robust, efficient, and reliable software development for critical hardware systems.

What are some common challenges faced by Embedded Software Developers when integrating software with hardware components?

Embedded Software Developers often encounter challenges related to hardware-software integration, such as debugging timing issues, managing limited memory and processing resources, and ensuring reliable communication between devices. These challenges require strong problem-solving skills and close collaboration with hardware engineers to diagnose and resolve issues efficiently. Additionally, developers must frequently work with low-level programming languages and proprietary hardware interfaces, which can require continuous learning and adaptation.

What are Embedded Software Developers?

Embedded Software Developers are engineers who design, develop, and maintain software that operates on specialized hardware systems, such as microcontrollers, IoT devices, automotive systems, and consumer electronics. Their work involves programming in low-level languages like C or C++ to ensure software interacts efficiently with hardware components. They often work closely with hardware engineers to optimize system performance, reliability, and resource usage. Embedded Software Developers must also consider constraints like memory, power consumption, and real-time processing when building robust solutions.

What engineering jobs pay $500,000?

Senior engineering roles such as aerospace, petroleum, and software engineering can reach or exceed $500,000 annually, especially with experience, bonuses, and stock options. High-level positions in management or specialized fields often offer compensation in this range, particularly in industries like technology, energy, and aerospace.

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

AspectEmbedded Software DeveloperFirmware Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or related fields; programming skills in C/C++Similar credentials; often requires experience with hardware and low-level programming
Work EnvironmentDevelops software for embedded systems in various industries like automotive, consumer electronicsFocuses on designing and implementing firmware directly on hardware devices
Industry UsageCommonly employed in electronics, automotive, IoT, and consumer device companiesPrimarily used in hardware-centric industries like aerospace, medical devices, and consumer electronics

Both roles require strong programming skills in C/C++ and familiarity with embedded systems. While Embedded Software Developers focus on creating software that runs on embedded devices, Firmware Engineers work closely with hardware to develop low-level code that directly interacts with hardware components. The roles often overlap, but Firmware Engineers typically have a deeper understanding of hardware architecture and low-level programming.

What are the most commonly searched types of Embedded Software Developer jobs in California? The most popular types of Embedded Software Developer jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Embedded Software Developer jobs in California? For Embedded Software Developer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Embedded Software Developer jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Embedded Software Developer jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Embedded Software Developer jobs? Cities in California with the most Embedded Software Developer job openings:
Embedded Software Developer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Embedded Software Developer job openings in California as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 96% Full Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 83% Physical, 8% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $126,686 per year, or $60.9 per hour.

Embedded Software Developer

Astrolab

Hawthorne, CA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 26 days ago

Job description

Embedded Software Developer
Application Deadline: 23 June 2026
Department: Software Engineering
Employment Type: Full Time
Location: Hawthorne, California
Reporting To: Denise Brown
Description
Venturi Astrolab, Inc. (Astrolab) is pioneering new ways to explore and operate on distant planetary bodies. We are singularly focused on designing, building, and operating a fleet of multi-purpose commercial planetary rovers to extend and enhance humanity's presence in the solar system. We are seeking motivated, creative, and exceptional people to join our world-class team.
Astrolab is looking for embedded software developers to develop and test software for embedded computers on our extraplanetary rovers. Embedded developers will be responsible for architecting, implementing, integrating, and testing software for operating key rover systems.
What you'll do:
  • Write and test software for multiple embedded system platforms ranging from microcontrollers to FPGAs to flight computers
  • Work with the rest of the software development team to define the overall vehicle software architecture as well as the software architecture on each specific target platform
  • Develop software for bare-metal implementations, applications running on lightweight real time operating systems such as FreeRTOS, and applications running on real time Linux
  • Develop and test all layers of the FSW stack, ranging from low-level interface and communication protocol code to top level executables and various application layer features
  • Analyze software performance on a variety of embedded target platforms, identify bottlenecks or resource exceedances, and optimize code performance on the target platform
  • Write integrated tests that execute on target hardware running standalone and in the full vehicle architecture and support execution of integrated tests in automated CI/CD pipelines
  • Support unit level and vehicle level integration and testing
  • Support vehicle flight software verification and validation activities
  • Provide on-call technical support during mission operations and major test activities such as TVAC testing

What you'll bring:
  • 5 or more years experience developing embedded software for safety critical systems such as human rated space vehicles, medical equipment, or automotive platforms
  • Experience with bare metal implementations on target platforms with limited resources
  • Experience implementing, testing, and debugging communication stack software for a variety of interfaces (e.g. UART, ethernet, CAN, etc.)
  • Experience profiling software systems running on embedded targets
  • 3 or more years hands-on experience with hardware/software integration and testing
  • Strong C and C++ coding skills
  • Experience with agile software development workflows and with modern software development practices
  • Experience with automated testing and creating CI/CD pipelines to execute unit tests and integrated tests

Benefits and Perks
  • Join a team of best-in-class engineers building the foundation of planetary surface exploration
  • Equity ownership in the company
  • Comprehensive health benefits, including medical, dental, vision, and mental health support
  • 401(k) plan with company match
  • Flexible PTO and parental leave
  • Home office set up reimbursement
  • Weekly lunch stipend, plus complimentary snacks and beverages on-site
  • Once a month social hour on-site with food and drinks

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