1

Embedded Software Engineer Salary Jobs in California

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 ... The salary range for this position is $155,000 to $210,000. A sign-on bonus may be offered as part ...

Zoox is looking for an embedded software engineer to join our Firmware Platforms team. In this role ... The salary range for this position is $155,000 to $210,000. A sign-on bonus may be offered as part ...

Embedded Software Engineer

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

$154K - $203K/yr

Embedded Software Engineer, Santa Clara, CA We are seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Embedded Software Engineer to join a dynamic team. The ideal Embedded Software Engineer will possess a solid ...

Zoox is looking for an embedded software engineer to join our Firmware Platforms team. In this role ... The salary range for this position is $155,000 to $210,000. A sign-on bonus may be offered as part ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

Embedded Software Engineer (Automated Test & Fleet Systems) Location: Foster City, CA (100% In-Person / On-Site) Pay Rate: $99.26 USD / Hour Job Type: Full-Time Contract Industry: Autonomous Mobility ...

New

Embedded Software Engineer

Hayward, CA · On-site

$170K - $190K/yr

Embedded Software Engineer Department: Aeris Employment Type: Full Time Location: Hayward, CA ... Salary range: $170,000 - $190,000 annual base * Health, dental, and vision insurance with low ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Embedded Software Engineer Salary information

What engineer makes $500,000 a year?

While most embedded software engineers earn significantly less, highly experienced engineers working in specialized fields such as aerospace, defense, or high-frequency trading may reach or exceed $500,000 annually, especially with bonuses and stock options. Achieving this level typically requires advanced skills, certifications, and leadership roles in large organizations or startups with substantial funding.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior embedded software engineers with extensive experience, specialized skills in real-time systems, and expertise in tools like C/C++ and embedded Linux can reach salaries of $300,000 or more, especially in high-demand industries such as aerospace, defense, or advanced technology. Achieving this level often requires advanced certifications, leadership roles, or working in high-cost regions with competitive compensation packages.

What is the average salary for an Embedded Software Engineer?

The average salary for an Embedded Software Engineer in the United States typically ranges from $80,000 to $130,000 per year, depending on experience, education, location, and the specific industry. Entry-level positions may start around $70,000, while highly experienced engineers or those working in high-demand sectors can earn upwards of $140,000. Factors such as specialized skills in C/C++, real-time operating systems, and industry certifications can also impact salary levels.

How does the complexity of projects and industry sector influence an Embedded Software Engineer's salary?

The salary of an Embedded Software Engineer can vary significantly based on the complexity of the projects they work on and the industry sector they are employed in. Engineers working on cutting-edge technologies such as automotive safety systems, aerospace, or medical devices often command higher salaries due to the specialized knowledge and stringent safety standards required. Additionally, those who take on leadership responsibilities or have experience with high-demand skillsets like real-time operating systems or cybersecurity may see increased compensation. It's important for job seekers to consider both the technical challenges and the industry focus when evaluating salary expectations.

Do embedded software engineers get paid well?

Embedded software engineers typically earn competitive salaries due to their specialized skills in programming microcontrollers and real-time systems. Salaries vary based on experience, location, and industry, but generally reflect the technical expertise required for developing embedded systems in sectors like automotive, aerospace, and consumer electronics.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Embedded Software Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Embedded Software Engineer, you need a solid background in computer science, proficiency in C/C++ programming, and experience with embedded systems development, usually supported by a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with real-time operating systems (RTOS), microcontroller/microprocessor architectures, and industry-standard debugging tools is often required. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective teamwork and communication skills help set candidates apart. These competencies are essential to ensure reliable, efficient, and innovative embedded solutions in complex hardware-software environments.

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

Embedded Software Engineers 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-paying industries or locations. However, salaries vary widely based on factors such as geographic region, company size, and individual expertise.

What is the difference between Embedded Software Engineer Salary vs Firmware Engineer Salary?

CriteriaEmbedded Software EngineerFirmware Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or related fieldsBachelor's in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or related fields
Work EnvironmentEmbedded systems development, hardware integration, software codingFirmware development, microcontroller programming, hardware interaction
Employer & Industry UsageElectronics, automotive, consumer devices, aerospaceConsumer electronics, IoT devices, automotive, industrial equipment

Both roles typically require similar educational backgrounds and work in embedded systems environments. While salaries are comparable, Firmware Engineers may earn slightly more due to specialized microcontroller expertise. Understanding these differences can help job seekers target the right roles and salary expectations.

What cities in California are hiring for Embedded Software Engineer Salary jobs? Cities in California with the most Embedded Software Engineer Salary job openings:

Embedded Software Engineer

Allen Control Systems

Mountain View, CA • On-site

$155K - $204K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, PTO

Posted 3 days ago

New


Job description

Company Overview:


Allen Control Systems (ACS) is a cutting-edge defense startup founded by two former Navy electrical engineers with a proven track record in robotics and software. We are developing a small, autonomous gun turret that employs advanced computer vision and control systems to precisely target and neutralize small drones and loitering munitions. Our innovative approach requires overcoming significant technical challenges, making this an exciting and dynamic environment for experienced engineers.

 With an engineering-first culture, ACS values technical excellence and innovation. Backed by our founders' successful exits from two previous ventures acquired for a combined $180M in 2022, we are committed to ensuring that the groundbreaking technologies we develop have a real-world impact.

Position Overview:
We are seeking a highly skilled Embedded Software Engineer specializing in Jetson hardware platforms and driver development. The ideal candidate will have hands-on experience configuring embedded Linux PCs such as NVIDIA Jetson, writing Linux drivers, and integrating custom hardware. You will play a critical role in enabling high-performance computer vision and control applications by ensuring reliable low-level software support for our autonomous systems.

We’re hiring across multiple experience levels, including:

  • Associate Embedded Software Engineer

  • Embedded Software Engineer

  • Senior Embedded Software Engineer

  • Staff Embedded Software Engineer

  • Senior Staff Embedded Software Engineer

    Your title and level will be determined based on your experience, skills, and the scope of responsibility appropriate for the role.

What You'll Do:

  • Develop and maintain Linux kernel drivers for Jetson-based platforms, supporting Ethernet NICs, USB devices, and MIPI cameras.

  • Write and optimize drivers for custom PCIe devices, FPGAs, and other high-performance peripherals.

  • Configure, customize, and optimize embedded Linux distributions for NVIDIA Jetson platforms to meet performance and reliability requirements.

  • Collaborate with hardware and computer vision teams to ensure seamless integration of sensors, accelerators, and custom hardware with embedded software.

  • Debug low-level system issues, analyze performance bottlenecks, and implement fixes for real-time applications.

  • Produce thorough documentation of driver implementations, hardware interfaces, and configuration processes.

What You'll Need:

  • Experience: 3+ years of experience in embedded Linux software development, including driver programming and low-level system configuration.

  • Educational Background: Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Computer Engineering, Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or related field.

  • Embedded Linux: Strong experience building, configuring, and customizing Linux kernels and drivers for embedded platforms.

  • Driver Development: Proven experience writing Linux drivers for Ethernet NICs, USB devices, and MIPI camera interfaces.

  • Hardware Interfaces: Familiarity with PCIe and FPGA-based systems.

  • Languages: Proficiency in C/C++ for kernel and driver development; Python or Bash for scripting and automation.

  • Debugging & Testing: Skilled with low-level debugging tools, oscilloscopes, logic analyzers, and performance profiling techniques.

You'll Stand Out:

  • NVIDIA Jetson Experience: Direct experience developing software and drivers on NVIDIA Jetson platforms.

  • Robotics & Autonomy: Exposure to robotic or autonomous systems requiring real-time responsiveness.

  • High-Performance Systems: Experience optimizing code for low-latency, high-throughput embedded applications.

  • Networking & Protocols: Knowledge of networking protocols (TCP/IP, UDP) and peripheral communication standards (I2C, SPI, CAN, UART).

  • Open Source Contributions: Demonstrated involvement in kernel or driver-related open-source projects.

What We Offer:

  • Competitive salary

  • ACS Equity Package

  • Health, Dental, Vision Insurance

  • Paid Time Off

Allen Control Systems is an Equal Opportunity Employer, providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment. Allen Control Systems 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.

#LI-AS1