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Embedded Software Engineer Jobs in Appleton, WI (NOW HIRING)

Net Developer

Neenah, WI · On-site

$49.75 - $65.75/hr

... 8 years of experience in software development * Strong proficiency in WPF and desktop UI ... Experience working with laboratory systems, scientific instruments, or embedded device integrations

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Showing results 1-20

Embedded Software Engineer information

See Appleton, WI salary details

$68.3K

$149.7K

$169.8K

How much do embedded software engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for embedded software engineer in Appleton, WI is $149,660.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $128,300.00 and $168,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

AspectEmbedded Software EngineerFirmware Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's in Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or related fields; often requires knowledge of C/C++Similar credentials; strong C/C++ skills, understanding of hardware
Work EnvironmentDevelops software for embedded systems in various industries like automotive, IoT, consumer electronicsFocuses on low-level hardware interaction, often working closely with hardware teams
Industry UsageCommon in automotive, medical devices, consumer electronics, industrial automationPrimarily in consumer electronics, IoT devices, and hardware startups

Embedded Software Engineers design and develop software for embedded systems, focusing on system-level programming. Firmware Engineers write low-level code that directly interacts with hardware components. While both roles require similar skills and work environments, Embedded Software Engineers often work on a broader range of software, whereas Firmware Engineers focus on hardware-specific code. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

What Is an Embedded Software Engineer?

Embedded software is installed on devices that operate like personal computers. Examples of embedded software can be found in geographic positioning systems, or GPS devices, smart watches, and calculators. Embedded software engineers perform a range of embedded software engineering functions, including running system software updates and designing software for embedded systems. Embedded software engineers also advise on product development, approve new product designs, and optimize the product lifecycle.

Will AI replace embedded system engineers?

Embedded software engineers design and develop software for embedded systems, and while AI tools can assist with coding and testing, they are unlikely to fully replace the need for human expertise in understanding hardware constraints, system integration, and troubleshooting. AI can enhance productivity but requires skilled engineers to oversee, interpret, and implement solutions effectively.

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 or electrical engineering, strong programming skills in C/C++, and experience with embedded systems design. Familiarity with real-time operating systems (RTOS), microcontroller architectures, debugging tools, and version control systems like Git is typically required. Excellent problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication skills set top engineers apart. These competencies are crucial for building reliable, efficient, and safe embedded solutions that meet industry standards.

What are Embedded Software Engineers?

Embedded Software Engineers are professionals who design, develop, and maintain software that runs on embedded systems—specialized computing devices that are part of larger systems, such as cars, medical devices, industrial machines, and consumer electronics. Their work involves programming in languages like C or C++ to interact closely with hardware components, ensuring optimal performance, reliability, and safety. Embedded Software Engineers work closely with hardware engineers to integrate and test software with physical devices, often working within real-time and resource-constrained environments. Their expertise is crucial in developing the 'brains' of many devices we use every day.

What do embedded software engineers do?

Embedded software engineers develop, test, and maintain software that runs on hardware devices such as microcontrollers, sensors, and embedded systems. They write code primarily in C or C++, often using specialized tools and real-time operating systems to ensure efficient and reliable device performance.

How does an Embedded Software Engineer typically collaborate with hardware engineers during product development?

Embedded Software Engineers work closely with hardware engineers throughout the product development lifecycle. Collaboration often involves joint design reviews, debugging sessions, and integration testing to ensure software and hardware function seamlessly together. Effective communication is crucial, as changes in hardware can impact software functionality and vice versa. This cross-disciplinary teamwork helps resolve technical issues quickly and ensures the end product meets performance and reliability standards.

What engineer makes $500,000 a year?

Highly experienced senior engineers in specialized fields such as software, aerospace, or petroleum engineering can earn $500,000 or more annually, often through a combination of base salary, bonuses, and stock options. These roles typically require advanced skills, certifications, and extensive industry experience.

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 such as aerospace or automotive. Achieving this salary often requires advanced certifications, a strong track record, and positions in regions with higher compensation levels. Entry-level or general roles typically offer lower salaries, but senior engineers with expertise in embedded systems can reach or exceed this income level.
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What cities near Appleton, WI are hiring for Embedded Software Engineer jobs? Cities near Appleton, WI with the most Embedded Software Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Embedded Software Engineer job openings in Appleton, WI as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, and 20% Contract. Highlights an 80% In-person, and 20% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $149,660 per year, or $72 per hour.

$48.75 - $64.50/hr

Contractor

Posted 18 days ago


Job description

Role: .NET Developer

Location: Neenah, WI (Onsite 5 days a week)

Duration: 4–5 month contract

About the Role

We're looking for a Senior .NET / WPF Developer to join an onsite team building and enhancing a laboratory information management and instrument integration system. You'll own the development of a complex desktop application spanning instrument communication, data processing workflows, and reporting — working directly with engineering, product, and QA stakeholders in an Agile environment. If you thrive in device-connected, data-intensive environments and enjoy solving real-world integration challenges, this role is worth a close look.

Key Responsibilities

Application Development (approx. 80%)

  • Design and develop a WPF-based desktop application using a modular, scalable architecture
  • Build and enhance workflows supporting lab data capture, calibration, measurement, review, and reporting
  • Implement multithreading and async programming patterns for real-time instrument interaction and responsive UI behavior
  • Develop data access, offline data handling, synchronization, and upload capabilities
  • Enable data export, reporting, and printing functionalities

Device & Instrument Integration (approx. 20%)

  • Implement device integration frameworks for multiple laboratory instruments and peripheral devices
  • Develop device management and configuration modules, including health checks, status monitoring, thresholds, and communication settings
  • Handle serial communication and device connectivity using COM protocols, device APIs, and SDKs

Collaboration & Quality

  • Partner with engineering, product, and QA teams on architecture, testing strategy, and deployment planning
  • Perform end-to-end validation, integration testing, and issue resolution across device and application workflows

Qualifications

Required

  • 5–8 years of software development experience
  • Strong proficiency in WPF and desktop UI development
  • Solid experience with C# and .NET Core / .NET Framework
  • Hands-on experience with serial communication and COM port-based integrations
  • Strong understanding of multithreading and async programming using Task and async/await
  • Experience integrating hardware devices through APIs, SDKs, or communication protocols
  • Knowledge of database access technologies such as ADO.NET or ORMs
  • Experience with modular application architecture and desktop application design
  • Strong problem-solving and debugging skills in device-connected environments

Preferred

  • Experience with laboratory systems, scientific instruments, or embedded device integrations
  • Familiarity with LIMS workflows, sample/result handling, or regulated lab environments
  • Knowledge of NI libraries or equivalent integration frameworks
  • Experience with installer creation and deployment packaging
  • Exposure to offline-first applications and sync mechanisms

Fluid thanks you for your interest in this opportunity. However, only candidates with the required qualifications will be contacted.

Fluid adheres to the principles of equal employment opportunity and affirmative action. We welcome and encourage diversity in our workplace.

Candidates must be eligible to work in the United States.