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Embedded Software Developer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Fidelis Companies

Embedded Software Engineer

Anaheim, CA · On-site

$140K - $185K/yr

Staff/Senior Embedded Software Engineer (IC Validation & Systems) Aerospace semiconductor company developing high‑reliability integrated circuits used in mission‑critical electronic systems. This ...

Zoox

Embedded Software Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$165K - $200K/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

$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

$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 · 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 ...

Belcan

Embedded Software Engineer

Simi Valley, CA

$105K - $110K/yr

Embedded Software Engineer Pay Rate: $105K - $110K | ACIP Bonus 10% Location: Simi Valley, CA Area Code: 805, 820 ZIP Code: 93063 Start Date: Right Away Shift: 1st Shift Keywords: #SimiValleyJobs ...

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 ...

804 Technology

Embedded Software Engineer

Simi Valley, CA · On-site

$135K - $178K/yr

The Embedded Software Engineer 2 designs, develops and debugs software, working in small teams to solve problems and explore technologies for new and existing core products. JOB CORE RESPONSIBILITIES:

Viasat, Inc.

Embedded Software Engineer

Carlsbad, CA

$145K - $218K/yr

What you'll do This is a role for a Embedded Software Engineer within Secure Netowrk Systems (SNS) - Viasat Government who is eager to contribute to a small, fast-paced team. You will develop ...

Belcan

Embedded Software Engineer

Simi Valley, CA

$105K - $110K/yr

Embedded Software Engineer Salary Range: $105K - $110K | ACIP Bonus 10% Location: Simi Valley, CA Area Code: 805, 820 ZIP Code: 93063 Start Date: Right Away Shift: 1st Shift, Keywords ...

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Embedded Software Developer information

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How much do embedded software developer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 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 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.

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.

Can I make 200k a year as a software engineer?

Embedded Software Developers can potentially earn $200,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, specialized skills in areas like real-time systems or safety-critical applications, and working in high-cost-of-living regions or for large companies. Achieving this salary often requires advanced knowledge of embedded systems, certifications, and a strong track record of project success. However, salaries vary widely based on location, industry, and individual expertise.

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.
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Embedded Software Developer jobs near you
Embedded Software Engineer

Embedded Software Engineer

Fidelis Companies

Anaheim, CA • On-site

$140K - $185K/yr

Other

This job post has expired 1 day ago. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Staff/Senior Embedded Software Engineer (IC Validation & Systems)


Aerospace semiconductor company developing high‑reliability integrated circuits used in mission‑critical electronic systems. This role sits at the intersection of embedded software, hardware interaction, and product validation, with strong exposure across firmware, APIs, and system‑level applications.


This is not a pure software role — it’s ideal for someone who enjoys working close to the hardware and understands how software interacts with real devices.


Requires 5-10 years of experience


What You’ll Do

  • Develop and maintain embedded software and validation frameworks for IC products
  • Own API validation and regression testing, ensuring new features and updates do not break existing functionality
  • Build and reuse Python‑based test frameworks (not one‑off scripts) for scalable validation
  • Work across embedded C and Python, interfacing with microcontrollers (Cortex‑based, 16‑bit systems)
  • Support software across multiple platforms: Bare‑metal, Linux, and Windows environments
  • Develop and maintain demo and evaluation software/firmware used internally and by customers
  • Debug and validate hardware/software interactions during bring‑up and testing
  • Collaborate with engineering teams to support product development and resolve issues
  • Provide occasional customer support and troubleshooting for software integrations


Additional Exposure (Nice to Have / Growth Areas)

  • FPGA interaction and prototyping (Xilinx‑based systems)
  • PCIe interfacing through FPGA platforms
  • GUI/application‑level development for product demonstrations
  • Working with industry protocols and legacy systems

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