ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Embedded Software Developer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Embtel, Inc.

Embedded software engineer

Brisbane, CA · On-site

$158.30K - $208.30K/yr

The Sr. Embedded Software Engineer serves on the R&D team to contribute toward the development of embedded software for novel medical systems. As part of our growing software group, you will ...

KLA Corporation

Embedded Software Engineer

Milpitas, CA · On-site

$153.20K - $201.60K/yr

We are seeking a highly motivated Embedded Software Engineer to join our team within the RAPID division. In this role, you will take end-to-end technical ownership of embedded software that powers ...

Embtel, Inc.

Embedded software engineer

Brisbane, CA

$158.30K - $208.30K/yr

The Sr. Embedded Software Engineer serves on the R&D team to contribute toward the development of embedded software for novel medical systems. As part of our growing software group, you will ...

Orbotech

Embedded Software Engineer

Milpitas, CA

$153.20K - $201.60K/yr

We are seeking a highly motivated Embedded Software Engineer to join our team within the RAPID division. In this role, you will take end-to-end technical ownership of embedded software that powers ...

Viasat, Inc.

Embedded Software Engineer

Carlsbad, CA · On-site

$174K - $261K/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 ...

KLA Corporation

Embedded Software Engineer

Milpitas, CA

$153.20K - $201.60K/yr

We are seeking a highly motivated Embedded Software Engineer to join our team within the RAPID division. In this role, you will take end-to-end technical ownership of embedded software that powers ...

Leidos

Embedded Software Engineer

Cardiff By The Sea, CA

$87.10K - $157.45K/yr

In this role, the Embedded Software Engineer will build high-performance software to meet extreme system requirements. They will be responsible for designing and implementing components to support ...

Leidos

Embedded Software Engineer

Chula Vista, CA

$87.10K - $157.45K/yr

In this role, the Embedded Software Engineer will build high-performance software to meet extreme system requirements. They will be responsible for designing and implementing components to support ...

Leidos

Embedded Software Engineer

La Jolla, CA

$87.10K - $157.45K/yr

In this role, the Embedded Software Engineer will build high-performance software to meet extreme system requirements. They will be responsible for designing and implementing components to support ...

Leidos

Embedded Software Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$139.60K - $183.70K/yr

In this role, the Embedded Software Engineer will build high-performance software to meet extreme system requirements. They will be responsible for designing and implementing components to support ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

People also search for

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 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 Engineer - Networking

Webster & Webster Associates

San Diego, CA

$141.10K - $185.70K/yr

Other

Posted 11 days ago

Job description

A fast-growing, embeddedcompany seeks an Embedded Software Engineer. This international company develops sophisticated low-level software that powers secure and safety-critical systems across demanding industries. This role is ideal for an experienced engineer who excels at building and optimizing the core networking components that ensure reliable, high-integrity data communication across complex embedded platforms. You'll be instrumental in designing the future of secured embedded connectivity.
Key Responsibilities
  • Design, implement, and rigorously optimize embedded network stacks, communication drivers, and protocols.
  • Partner with system and security engineering teams to seamlessly integrate advanced secure networking and real-time capabilities.
  • Rigorously validate and verify driver and protocol implementations to ensure reliability and adherence to strict functional safety and certification standards.
  • Master advanced troubleshooting of complex networking issues using state-of-the-art embedded debugging tools and testing methodologies.
  • Actively research and integrate emerging trends in networking, real-time communication, and embedded software design.
  • Collaborate effectively as a core member of a distributed, high-performance engineering team.
Core Qualifications
  • Bachelor's or Master's degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Software Engineering, or a related technical discipline.
  • Strong hands-on programming expertise in C and C++, with exposure to assembly for low-level performance optimization.
  • Proven experience developing and integrating network drivers and protocol stacks within resource-constrained embedded systems.
  • In-depth knowledge of real-time operating systems (RTOS) or complex embedded Linux environments.
  • Familiarity with next-generation networking technologies such as Time Sensitive Networking or Time-Triggered Ethernet is highly desirable.
  • Prior experience applying or working under rigorous safety or certification standards (e.g., DO-178C, ISO 26262) is preferred.
  • Proficiency in using hardware tools such as JTAG debuggers, oscilloscopes, and logic analyzers for low-level debugging.
  • Excellent analytical, troubleshooting, and clear communication skills.
What Sets This Opportunity Apart
  • Impact on Mission-Critical Systems: Your code will directly power some of the world's most advanced, high-integrity applications in sectors like aerospace, automotive, and industrial control.
  • Cutting-Edge Technology: This role offers deep exposure to emerging secure and real-time networking standards, placing you at the forefront of embedded development.
  • Engineering Excellence: Join a culture focused on technical depth, where quality, security, and performance are paramount-an ideal environment for a dedicated low-level software expert.
  • Growth and Flexibility: As part of a fast-growing company, you'll find ample opportunity for career advancement and the flexibility of working within a distributed engineering team.

If you're passionate about building reliable, high-performance networking solutions for embedded systems and want to contribute to technology that powers safety-critical industries, apply today.
Title: Embedded Software Engineer - Networking
Employment Type: Direct Hire
Hours: Full-Time
Location: San Diego, CA
Location Type: Fully Remote
Relocation: None
Job ID: JO-2504-1235

Apply