ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Embedded Software Developer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

GRVTY

Jr Embedded Software Developer

Ventura, CA

What Impact You'll Have GRVTY is seeking a passionate Junior Embedded Software Engineer to join our growing software team in Ventura, CA. This is an opportunity to develop and test autonomy software ...

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 ...

GRVTY

Jr Embedded Software Developer

Ventura, CA · On-site

$90K - $100K/yr

What Impact You'll Have GRVTY is seeking a passionate Junior Embedded Software Engineer to join our growing software team in Ventura, CA. This is an opportunity to develop and test autonomy software ...

GRVTY

Jr Embedded Software Developer

Ventura, CA · On-site

$90K - $100K/yr

What Impact You'll Have GRVTY is seeking a passionate Junior Embedded Software Engineer to join our growing software team in Ventura, CA. This is an opportunity to develop and test autonomy software ...

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 ...

Purple Hires Inc

Embedded Software Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

$141K - $185K/yr

Embedded Software Engineer Location: Irvine, California, 100% onsite (In-Person Interview) Domain - Avionics/Aerospace Domain Below is the detailed for your reference - Job Overview: We are looking ...

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 ...

Actalent

Embedded Software Engineer

Carson, CA

$45 - $100/hr

Embedded Software Engineer The Embedded Software Engineer will verify, test, integrate, and develop embedded software for high-power, safety-critical systems in aerospace, defense, aviation, and ...

Asterism IT Solutions

Embedded Software Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$139K - $183K/yr

Embedded Software Engineer Experience level: Mid Level (5-8 yrs exp.) Experience required: 3 Years Education level: Bachelor's degree We're looking for an embedded software engineer to design and ...

Actalent

Embedded Software Engineer

Carson, CA

$45 - $100/hr

Embedded Software Engineer The Embedded Software Engineer will verify, test, integrate, and develop embedded software for high-power, safety-critical systems in aerospace, defense, aviation, and ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsEmbedded Software Developer JobsEmbedded Software Developer Jobs in California

Embedded Software Developer information

See California salary details

$32

$60

$91

How much do embedded software developer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 20, 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 engineers make $500,000?

Highly experienced engineers in specialized fields such as software engineering, data science, or executive roles can earn $500,000 or more annually. These positions often require advanced skills, certifications, and leadership responsibilities, typically found in senior or executive levels within technology companies. Compensation at this level may include base salary, bonuses, and stock options.

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 does an embedded developer do?

An embedded software developer designs, develops, and tests software for embedded systems such as microcontrollers and hardware devices. They write code in languages like C or C++, often work with hardware specifications, and use tools like debuggers and oscilloscopes to ensure the software functions reliably within hardware constraints.

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.

Is embedded software developer a good career?

Embedded software development is a stable and in-demand field, as it involves creating software for hardware devices such as IoT gadgets, automotive systems, and medical equipment. It typically requires knowledge of programming languages like C or C++, and skills in hardware interfaces and real-time operating systems, offering opportunities for growth and specialization.

Will AI replace embedded developers?

Embedded software developers design and implement software for hardware devices, and AI is unlikely to fully replace them due to the need for specialized knowledge of hardware constraints, real-time systems, and safety requirements. Instead, AI tools can assist developers by automating routine tasks and improving efficiency, but human expertise remains essential for complex problem-solving and system integration.

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 July 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 9% Contract. Highlights an 82% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 15% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $126,686 per year, or $60.9 per hour.

Jr Embedded Software Developer

GRVTY

Ventura, CA

Other

Posted 13 days ago

Job description

What Impact You'll Have

GRVTY is seeking a passionate Junior Embedded Software Engineer to join our growing software team in Ventura, CA. This is an opportunity to develop and test autonomy software for our groundbreaking Autonomous Undersea Vehicle (AUV) Family of Systems and advanced guidance, navigation, and controls (GNC) technology. The embedded software that runs inside our vehicles is mission-critical - operating autonomously for very long periods without the ability for operator intervention. Our software team designs and maintains the low-level software layers that interface directly with vehicle hardware, sensors, control surfaces, propulsion and communication systems, forming the foundation on which our autonomy and GNC stacks depend. You will join a team of dedicated engineers and scientists who are pushing the boundaries of maritime technology to deliver exceptional products and capabilities.

What You'll be Owning

  • Develop and maintain embedded C/C++ code operating under RTOS for AUV subsystems including propulsion, control surfaces, sensors, and others
  • Implement and integrate device drivers for sensors and communication peripherals (i.e., DVL, IMU, GPS, USBL, etc.)
  • Develop serial, Ethernet and UDP/TCP socket-based interfaces for communications within the AUV architecture
  • Lead hardware-in-the-loop and system level testing
  • Support integration of vehicle software with external operator interfaces and topside control systems
  • Support in-water vehicle test events; collect and analyze embedded system logs and telemetry to diagnose field anomalies
  • Assist in documenting and maintaining software interface control documents (ICDs) for internal and external interfaces
  • Provide appropriate documentation for generated code
  • Follow safe coding practices appropriate for safety-critical embedded systems
  • Technical Lead for projects as appropriate
  • Provide mentoring for interns
  • Lead/contributing author on reports/papers and presents work at meetings when appropriate

What You Must Have

  • US Citizenship required; ability to obtain and maintain a DoD Secret clearance
  • Bachelor's Degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering or closely related field.
  • 0-4 years of professional experience in embedded software or firmware development (internships, co-ops, and senior capstone projects count)
  • Proficiency in C and C++ for embedded or systems programming
  • Familiarity with microcontroller or embedded processor development environments (bare-metal or RTOS-based)
  • Working knowledge of at least two serial communication protocols (UART, SPI, I2C, CAN, RS-485, or similar)
  • Experience with debugging tools such as JTAG/SWD debuggers, oscilloscopes, or logic analyzers
  • Strong problem-solving ability and attention to detail; comfortable reading hardware datasheets and schematics
  • Ability to write clear, grammatically correct documents with logical structure and deep technical content
  • Demonstrates excellence in technical discussions with internal and external collaborators
  • Displays professionalism both in the workplace and in customer interactions

What Would be Nice to Have

  • Experience with RTOS platforms such as FreeRTOS, Zephyr, VxWorks, or similar
  • Academic or project experience with underwater vehicles, robotics, or maritime/defense systems
  • Familiarity with communication protocols: UART, SPI, I2C, RS-485, Ethernet, CAN bus
  • Experience with software configuration management tools

Apply