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Embedded Software Developer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

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 ...

Embedded Software Engineer

Simi Valley, CA

$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:

Embedded Software Engineer Location: Burlingame, CA Duration: Contract - 12 months Pay Range: $56/hr $68/hr (W2) Job ID: 406696 About BCforward BCforward is a leading global IT consulting and ...

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 ...

Embedded Software Engineer/Architect

Cypress, CA · On-site

$139K - $183K/yr

Embedded Software Engineer/Architect Overview: We're hiring for a fast-growing engineering company developing advanced technology for mission-critical applications. Known for its innovation and ...

Embedded software engineer

Brisbane, CA · On-site

$158K - $208K/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 ...

Embedded software engineer

Brisbane, CA

$158K - $208K/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 ...

Embedded Software Engineer

Milpitas, CA

$153K - $201K/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 ...

Embedded Software Engineer

Orange, CA · Hybrid

$140K - $184K/yr

Fieldpiece is hiring an Embedded Software Engineer to contribute to the design, development, and support of the embedded software that powers our connected instruments, wireless tools, probes ...

Embedded Software Engineer

Milpitas, CA · On-site

$153K - $201K/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 ...

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Embedded Software Developer information

See California salary details

$32

$60

$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 cities in California are hiring for Embedded Software Developer jobs? Cities in California with the most Embedded Software Developer job openings:
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

GAL MANUFACTURING COMPANY LLC

Sacramento, CA • On-site

$140K - $184K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 23 days ago


Job description

Embedded Software Engineer
Full Time Position
Sacramento, CA
If you are a forward-thinker interested in troubleshooting, then keep reading! We are searching for an Embedded Software Engineer to join our Elevator Controls team at Vantage Elevation.
About Us
Vantage Elevation, LLC is North America's leading independent manufacturer of elevator components and systems. Vantage is comprised of eight business units including GAL Manufacturing; GAL Canada; Hollister-Whitney; Elevator Controls; Courion; Bore-Max; Thames Valley Controls and Vertical Dimensions. Through its brands, Vantage supplies almost all electro-mechanical devices used in contemporary elevators. Founded in 1927, the Vantage group employs over 900 staff in multiple locations across the United States, Canada, and United Kingdom.
Requirements
We are searching for a candidate with:
  • A minimum of 5-10 years of experience with real-time embedded software engineering
  • Bachelor's Degree in Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering or Software Engineering (or equivalent experience as demonstrated by candidate)
  • Strong embedded firmware development skills are required
  • Elevator industry experience including understanding of elevator systems and elevator control equipment highly preferred
  • Experience with C, C++ is required
  • Experience with real-time operating systems is required
  • Experience with IAR ARM development is highly desirable
  • Experience with low-level device drivers is highly desirable
  • Experience with scripting tools such as Bash, PowerShell, Python, Cygwin Make is highly desirable
  • Familiarity with revision control (Subversion, Git) is highly desirable
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills are highly desirable
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Power Point, Outlook)
  • Self-motivated, dependable, and capable of managing multiple priorities with minimal supervision.
  • Capable of leading small cross-functional projects with minimal supervision

Duties and Responsibilities
A typical day may include:
  • Design, develop, modify, and maintain software code
  • Troubleshoot and debug new and existing electronic hardware and software systems
  • Program in high-level languages as required
  • Perform functionality and performance testing
  • Work closely with industrial designers, mechanical engineers, and other department engineers as required
  • Mentor Junior Engineers
  • Other related tasks and duties as required

Benefits of Working with Us
  • $125,000-$150,000 per year
  • 10% target bonus
  • Full benefits
  • Generous PTO
  • Medical (Kaiser and UHS), Dental, Vision and 401K
  • 401(K)/ Company Match/ Non-Elective
  • Generous Paid Time Off (PTO)
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
  • Plum Benefits
  • ... and more!

Position Details
  • Full Time, In Person
  • Sacramento, CA
  • ~5% Travel

Vantage Elevation, LLC 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.
Like What You Read?
If you're excited by the prospect of working at the forefront of engineering technology with a world-class employer that values your hard work then we invite you to apply.