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

Draper

Senior Embedded Software Engineer

Cambridge, MA · On-site

$82K - $220K/yr

The Embedded Software Engineer (SMTS) provides technical expertise and leadership for the development of complex, real-time embedded software applications in resource constrained computing ...

Ciena

Embedded Software Engineer

Burlington, MA · On-site

$143K - $188K/yr

... embedded software or firmware development. - Proficient in C for embedded/systems programming; familiarity with C++ a plus. - Hands-on experience with embedded Linux (kernel drivers, device trees ...

Ciena

Embedded Software Engineer

Burlington, MA · On-site

$143K - $188K/yr

... embedded software or firmware development. - Proficient in C for embedded/systems programming; familiarity with C++ a plus. - Hands-on experience with embedded Linux (kernel drivers, device trees ...

Formlabs

Senior Embedded Software Engineer

Somerville, MA · On-site +1

$135K - $177K/yr

We are looking for a Senior Embedded Software Engineer for our Embedded team with a user focused mindset and strong technical background. Our embedded team is the essential component that ties ...

Motional

Senior Embedded Software Engineer

Boston, MA · On-site +1

$134K - $176K/yr

If you are a software engineer and love the idea of working on embedded AI hardware and software compute systems to create the next generation of autonomous vehicles, we would love to talk with you.

Ciena Corporation

Embedded Software Engineer

Burlington, MA · On-site

$143K - $188K/yr

... embedded software or firmware development. - Proficient in C for embedded/systems programming; familiarity with C++ a plus. - Hands-on experience with embedded Linux (kernel drivers, device trees ...

Privafy

Linux Embedded Software Engineer

Burlington, MA · On-site +1

$143K - $188K/yr

Qualifications Qualifications: - Minimum, Bachelors Degree in Electrical, Computer, or Software Engineering - At least 4 years of direct professional work experience developing embedded software in C ...

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All JobsEmbedded Software Engineer JobsEmbedded Software Engineer Jobs in Boston, MA

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.
More about Embedded Software Engineer jobs
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:
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What job categories do people searching Embedded Software Engineer jobs in Boston, MA look for? The top searched job categories for 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:
Embedded Software Engineer jobs near you
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

Embedded Software Engineer

General Dynamics Mission Systems, Inc

Dedham, MA • On-site

$94K - $99K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement

Posted 17 hours ago

General Dynamics Mission Systems rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 29 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

83rd of 202 rated software companies

Job description

Requires a Bachelor’s degree in Software Engineering, or a related Science, Engineering or Mathematics field. Agile experience preferred.

CLEARANCE REQUIREMENTS:
Department of Defense SECRET security clearance is required at time of hire. Applicants selected will be subject to a U.S. Government security investigation and must meet eligibility requirements for access to classified information. Due to the nature of work performed within our facilities, U.S. citizenship is required.


Make the world’s most advanced Cybersecurity and Encryption products even smarter

As an Embedded Software Engineer, working with custom Hardware built in-house, for our Cyber group, you’ll be a member of a cross functional team responsible for developing mission critical NSA-certified Cybersecurity devices in a rapidly growing product line. You’ll be working at the cutting edge of Cybersecurity and high-speed data.

We encourage you to apply if you have any of these preferred skills or experiences:

  • Real-Time Embedded software, preferably on Linux OS
  • Real world experience developing in a systems programming language such as C/C++, with Rust experience preferred
  • Extensive experience with software design, code, integration, and test
  • Long development lifecycle and product lifespans, requiring maintenance and regular technology refresh
  • Concurrent programming

Nice to have experience with:

  • Heterogeneous computing systems
  • Security-Enhanced Linux (SELinux)
  • ARMv8 architecture
  • Serial communication protocols, hardware interfaces, and device drivers
  • Computer Networking

What sets you apart:  

  • Passion for designing complicated systems and working on problems of diverse scope.
  • Ability to define the scope, schedule, and expectations for the work you execute.
  • Shows initiative on assignments and executes projects with little guidance and can provide technical direction and leadership.
  • Ability to turn CONOPS, Specifications or Requirements into software design, code, test plans, and then execute testing/debugging.
  • Proficiency with software tools supporting Integrated Development Environments (IDE), version control, defect tracking, and scripting.
  • Identifies opportunities to apply AI for continuous improvement and innovation.

Our Commitment to You:

  • An exciting career path with opportunities for continuous learning and development.
  • Research oriented work, alongside award winning teams developing practical solutions for our nation’s security
  • Flexible schedules with every other Friday off work, if desired (9/80 schedule)
  • Competitive benefits, including 401k matching, flex time off, paid parental leave, healthcare benefits, health & wellness programs (including on-site gym), employee resource and social groups, and more
  • See more at gdmissionsystems.com/careers/why-work-for-us/benefits
  • Sign-On Bonus Eligible for New Hires

Workplace Options:

This position is fully on-site.

#CJ3


This estimate represents the typical salary range for this position based on experience and other factors (geographic location, etc.). Actual pay may vary. This job posting will remain open until the position is filled.
USD $94,388.00 - USD $99,550.00 /Yr.

General Dynamics Mission Systems (GDMS) engineers a diverse portfolio of high technology solutions, products and services that enable customers to successfully execute missions across all domains of operation. With a global team of 12,000+ top professionals, we partner with the best in industry to expand the bounds of innovation in the defense and scientific arenas. Given the nature of our work and who we are, we value trust, honesty, alignment and transparency. We offer highly competitive benefits and pride ourselves in being a great place to work with a shared sense of purpose. You will also enjoy a flexible work environment where contributions are recognized and rewarded. If who we are and what we do resonates with you, we invite you to join our high-performance team!


Equal Opportunity Employer / Individuals with Disabilities / Protected Veterans

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