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Embedded Software Developer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Actalent

Embedded Software Engineer

Cypress, CA

$55 - $80/hr

Embedded Software Engineer This posting is for an existing vacancy --- The Embedded Software Engineer develops hardware, firmware, and graphical user interface (GUI) applications for use in both ...

CSG

Embedded Software Engineer

Redwood City, CA · On-site

$161K - $211K/yr

Embedded Systems Software Engineer Location : San Francisco Bay Area, CA Employment: Full-time, onsite Position Overview A growing technology company is hiring an Embedded Systems Software Engineer ...

Actalent

Embedded Software Engineer

Cypress, CA

$55 - $80/hr

Embedded Software Engineer This posting is for an existing vacancy --- The Embedded Software Engineer develops hardware, firmware, and graphical user interface (GUI) applications for use in both ...

Upcoresolutions

Embedded Software Engineer

San Diego, CA

$139K - $183K/yr

We're looking for an embedded software engineer to design and deliver security-focused features for encrypted storage products, including implementation of modern cryptography and support for FIPS ...

Zoox

Embedded Software Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$155K - $210K/yr

Zoox is looking for an embedded software engineer to join our Firmware Platforms team. In this role, you will be responsible for developing, extending, and maintaining support for multiple embedded ...

Zoox

Embedded Software Engineer

San Diego, CA

$155K - $210K/yr

Zoox is looking for an embedded software engineer to join our Firmware Platforms team. In this role, you will be responsible for developing, extending, and maintaining support for multiple embedded ...

Zoox

Embedded Software Engineer

San Diego, CA

$155K - $210K/yr

Zoox is looking for an embedded software engineer to join our Firmware Platforms team. In this role, you will be responsible for developing, extending, and maintaining support for multiple embedded ...

Array Labs

Embedded Software Engineer

Redwood City, CA · On-site

$161K - $211K/yr

About the Job As an Embedded Software Engineer , you will develop the embedded software that enables Array's radar sensors, communication links, and flight systems to operate reliably in orbit. Your ...

Array Labs

Embedded Software Engineer

Redwood City, CA

$150K - $250K/yr

About the Job As an Embedded Software Engineer , you will develop the embedded software that enables Array's radar sensors, communication links, and flight systems to operate reliably in orbit. Your ...

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All JobsEmbedded Software Developer JobsEmbedded Software Developer Jobs in California

Embedded Software Developer information

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$91

How much do embedded software developer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 21, 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 82% Full Time, 6% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 11% Contract. Highlights an 83% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $126,686 per year, or $60.9 per hour.
Embedded Software Engineer

Embedded Software Engineer

Trinity Technology Solutions

San Diego, CA • On-site

$139K - $183K/yr

Full-time

Posted 19 days ago

Job description

We are seeking an experienced Senior Embedded Software Engineer to design and develop embedded software for space-based systems, including computer boards. This is a hands-on, on-site position focused on real-time, high-reliability applications.

Key Responsibilities

  • Design, develop, document, and test embedded software for aerospace products.
  • Develop and debug bootloaders, BSPs, kernels, and device drivers for VxWorks 6.9/7.0, Embedded Linux, RTEMS, and bare-metal environments.
  • Write code in C/C++ and assembly for embedded systems; develop Python-based desktop GUI tools (e.g., pyvisa, nidaqmx) for automated test equipment.
  • Support system verification, debugging, and manufacturing with test programs, plans, and technical expertise.
  • Participate in technical customer discussions and cross-discipline design reviews.
  • Contribute to software architecture, planning, risk management, and process improvement across projects.

Qualifications

  • 5–15 years of experience in embedded software development.
  • Proficiency in C/C++, Python, BSP, kernel, and driver development.
  • Strong experience with VxWorks, Embedded Linux, and/or bare-metal systems.
  • Familiar with Buildroot/Yocto, NAND Flash file systems, and low-level hardware debugging using lab tools and in-circuit emulators.
  • BS in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, or related field (MS preferred).
  • Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and teamwork skills.