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Embedded Software Engineer Jobs in Boston, MA (NOW HIRING)

Designs, develops, codes, tests and debugs system software. Involved in specifications, design and development of embedded firmware in engineering projects. Analyzes and enhances efficiency ...

Designs, develops, codes, tests and debugs system software. Involved in specifications, design and development of embedded firmware in engineering projects. Analyzes and enhances efficiency ...

Sr. Embedded Software Engineer Department: Engineering Employment Type: Full Time Location: Burlington, MA Compensation: $130,000 - $140,000 / year Description The Sr. Embedded Software Engineer ...

Embedded Software Engineer

Wilmington, MA · On-site

$143K - $189K/yr

Design, develop, and maintain embedded software for real-time control systems in semiconductor precision test equipment * Collaborate with hardware engineers, FPGA designers, systems engineers, and ...

Embedded Software- Engineer

Lexington, MA · On-site

$120 - $130/hr

Designs, develops, codes, tests and debugs system software. Involved in specifications, design and development of embedded firmware in engineering projects. Analyzes and enhances efficiency ...

Embedded Software Engineer This role focuses on building foundational real-time control applications that power advanced robotic platforms. You will work exclusively on C-based embedded development ...

Sr. Embedded Software Engineer

Somerville, MA · Hybrid

$135K - $177K/yr

As a Senior Embedded Software Engineer, you'll play a pivotal role in the development and enhancement of the software that powers our robotic lifting solutions. You'll collaborate with cross ...

Sr. Embedded Software Engineer

Somerville, MA · On-site

$135K - $177K/yr

As a Senior Embedded Software Engineer, you'll play a pivotal role in the development and enhancement of the software that powers our robotic lifting solutions. You'll collaborate with cross ...

Sr. Embedded Software Engineer

Somerville, MA · On-site

$135K - $177K/yr

As a Senior Embedded Software Engineer, you'll play a pivotal role in the development and enhancement of the software that powers our robotic lifting solutions. You'll collaborate with cross ...

As Embedded Software Engineer, you will develop and optimize software for microcontroller-based sensor hardware while working on embedded software solutions within the constraints of limited hardware ...

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Showing results 1-20

Embedded Software Engineer information

See Boston, MA salary details

$76K

$166.6K

$189K

How much do embedded software engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for embedded software engineer in Boston, MA is $166,627.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $142,900.00 and $187,900.00 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.
What are the most commonly searched types of Embedded Software Engineer jobs in Boston, MA? The most popular types of Embedded Software Engineer jobs in Boston, MA are:
What cities near Boston, MA are hiring for Embedded Software Engineer jobs? Cities near Boston, MA with the most Embedded Software Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Embedded Software Engineer job openings in Boston, MA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 79% Full Time, and 21% Contract. Highlights an 94% In-person, and 6% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $166,627 per year, or $80.1 per hour.

Embedded Software Engineer

Athari

Lexington, MA • On-site

$70 - $95/hr

Contractor

Posted 15 days ago


Job description

Designs and implements software of embedded devices and systems from requirements to
production and commercial deployment for product lines. Designs, develops, codes, tests and
debugs system software. Involved in specifications, design and development of embedded
firmware in engineering projects. Analyzes and enhances efficiency, stability and scalability of
system resources. Integrate and validate new product designs. Supports software QA. Provides
post-production support. Interfaces with hardware design and development.
Required:
• Experience in embedded systems development.
• Experience in hands-on development and troubleshooting on embedded targets.
• Solid programming experience in C or C++.
• Proven experience in embedded systems design with preemptive, multitasking real-time
operating systems.
• Knowledge of reading schematics and data sheets for components. Strong documentation
and writing skills.
Other:
Work location: Hybrid - Candidates should expect to be onsite 3 days a week.
Clearance: Candidates must have an active secret clearance to be considered for this
position.
Travel: Estimated at 5% domestic and international
Interview Process: Initial pre-screen with Group Leader(s). If candidate advances to next
round, will be a larger group interview with technical staff.
Must Have
Degree Level
Bachelor's Degree Yes
Experience
Software Unit Testing 5 years
Hardware
Firmware 5 years
Real-Time Embedded Systems (RTOS, VxWorks, Xenomai, Linux) 5 years
Real-Time Software/Hardware 5 years
Program/Project Management OR Analysis
Software Documentation 5 years
Programming
C/C++ Programming 5 years
Collaboration on shared code repositories (e.g., Git) 5 years
Embedded Software 5 years
Object Oriented Software Design and Development 5 years
Scripting Languages: Perl, Python, Shell Scripting, Powershell. 5 years
Software Design/Development 5 years
Software
Multithreaded and Multiprocessor Applications 5 years
Software Tools
CI/CD pipelines tools (GitHub Actions, Jenkins, Ansible, etc.) 5 years
Communication Protocols (USB, Ethernet, PCIe, I2C, SPI) 5 years
Testing
Software Testing 5 years
Nice to Have
Data/Reporting
MODBUS protocol 0 years
Degree Level
Master's Degree Yes
Duration: 36 Months
Security Clearance Requirement: Yes
Security Clearance Level: Active Secret
Location: Lexington, MA 02421
Pay Range: $70 - $95 an hour
Requirements
Benefits