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Embedded Software Developer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Next Step Systems

Embedded Software Engineer

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

$154K - $203K/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

$141K - $185K/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

$136K - $179K/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 ...

Protingent

Embedded Software Engineer

Emeryville, CA · On-site

$120K - $150K/yr

Embedded Software Engineer Position Description: Protingent Staffing has an exciting direct hire Embedded Software Engineer opportunity. Job Responsibilities: * Design, implement, and maintain ...

Associates Systems LLC

$138K - $182K/yr

Secret Clearance required Richardson TX, Dayton OH, Marietta GA, Sterling VA, Aurora CO Embedded Software Engineer Seeking Embedded Software Engineers to support design, development, integration ...

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How much do embedded software developer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 8, 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 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 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 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 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 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 70% Full Time, 24% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 84% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $126,686 per year, or $60.9 per hour.
Embedded Software Developer

Embedded Software Developer

Alif Semiconductor

Pleasanton, CA • On-site

$150K - $250K/yr

Full-time

Posted 20 days ago

Job description

Alif Semiconductor is revolutionizing the way secure connected AI-enabled embedded solutions are created. We are looking for motivated individuals who want to be involved in a fast-paced environment with cutting-edge technology.

As an Embedded Software Developer for the Secure Processing Element, you will be responsible for developing and releasing to production the security firmware and supporting tools for the Secure Enclave in Alif’s MCU/MPU products. You will work closely with fellow firmware developers, system architects and senior management in order to define and architect the Secure Enclave (SE) firmware, which consists of both system ROM code and runtime firmware running in the SE’s local ram on ARM based cores.  In addition, you will work with others on the development of SW tools that are needed for provisioning the security credentials into the device.  As a Security Firmware developer, you must be very familiar with embedded system security and cryptography, be able to identify system threats and issues and develop embedded firmware using common cryptographic operations to minimize these system threats. You will also work with Alif marketing and lead customers / partners in order integrate market feedback on the security and configuration requirements. Our products are built around advanced Arm cores and bus architectures with a focus on IoT architecture, low power operation and system security. We expect the candidate to have prior experience in an embedded SW development team and to be familiar with ARM MCU’s and MPU’s. 
Responsibilities
  • Develop a mastery of the security threats for our products and understand the competitive security offerings of our competition
  • Have a deep understanding of our hardware system security functions and security firmware in the system
  • Architect and develop portions of the Secure Enclave Firmware and system provisioning tools.
  • Utilize the quality SW development process in order to complete the deliverables in a timely manor
  • Collaborate with other SE Firmware team members (discussions and review meetings, etc.)
Qualifications
  • Degree in Computer Science or related computer software fields.
  • 5-10+ years prior experience with embedded security firmware / software development
  • Strong knowledge of cryptography functions and embedded security architecture
  • Knowledge and experience with embedded MCU programming (C, C++ and Python)
  • Experience with embedded SW development tools (Git, Jira, CI tools, etc.)
  • Familiar with ARM MCU’s / MPU’s and embedded systems architecture
  • Ability to balance technical excellence with commercial / business pressures
  • Good communication skills and the ability to work with all levels in an organization
  • Demonstrable experience of on-time delivery of quality architectures
The annual salary range for this position will be between $150,000 to $250,000.  The actual annual salary paid will be determined based on job-related skills, experience, qualifications, work location and market conditions. The expected base pay range for this role may be modified based on market conditions.
Alif Semiconductor provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws.
 
This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.

We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.