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Embedded Software Engineer Jobs in Bothell, WA (NOW HIRING)

Embedded Software Engineer II

Renton, WA · Hybrid

$123K - $173K/yr

As an Embedded Software Engineer II on the Blue Ring program, you will be at the forefront of developing and testing flight software for one of the most capable and maneuverable multi-mission ...

FreeRTOS Engineer

Seattle, WA · On-site

$149K - $197K/yr

Embedded Software Engineer - FreeRTOS (Automotive ECU) Experience: 3-5 Years Domain: Automotive Embedded Systems Role Summary We are seeking a skilled Embedded Software Engineer with strong expertise ...

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Showing results 1-20

Embedded Software Engineer information

See Bothell, WA salary details

$79.6K

$174.4K

$197.8K

How much do embedded software engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 18, 2026, the average yearly pay for embedded software engineer in Bothell, WA is $174,357.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $149,500.00 and $196,700.00 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 design, develop, and test software that runs on hardware devices such as microcontrollers and embedded systems. They work with programming languages like C and C++, and often use tools like debuggers and oscilloscopes to ensure software reliability in environments such as consumer electronics, automotive systems, and medical devices.

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 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 large tech companies or finance firms.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior embedded software engineers with extensive experience, specialized skills in real-time systems, and proficiency in programming languages like C and C++ 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 regions with high living costs and competitive markets.
What are the most commonly searched types of Embedded Software Engineer jobs in Bothell, WA? The most popular types of Embedded Software Engineer jobs in Bothell, WA are:
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What cities near Bothell, WA are hiring for Embedded Software Engineer jobs? Cities near Bothell, WA with the most Embedded Software Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Embedded Software Engineer job openings in Bothell, WA as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, and 50% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $174,357 per year, or $83.8 per hour.
Software Engineer, Embedded Software (Starlink)

Software Engineer, Embedded Software (Starlink)

SpaceX

Redmond, WA

$145K - $175K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted yesterday


SpaceX rating

8.7

Company rating: 8.7 out of 10

Based on 144 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

13th of 60 rated aerospace companies


Job description

SOFTWARE ENGINEER, EMBEDDED SOFTWARE (STARLINK)

As an embedded engineer on the Starlink flight software team, you will design, develop and test software that is used to control SpaceX flight and ground systems. You will be responsible for both components that fly on robotic vehicles in space, and the ground systems that orchestrate the world's largest satellite constellation. You will engage with other SpaceX software and hardware engineersto discover the needs of the mission and code highly reliable software that turns the mission into a reality. You will be responsible for the complete life cycle of the software you create, from development to testing to operation during a continuous mission. 

Aerospace experience is not required to be successful here - rather, we look for smart, motivated, collaborative engineers who love solving problems and want to make an impact on an ambitious and inspiring mission. 

RESPONSIBILITIES: 

  • Develop highly reliable autonomous software systems, and the full suite of testing needed to ensure their resilience, fault tolerance, and correctness 
  • Design software for both vehicles flying in space, and the ground systems that support them 
  • Build prototypes and analyze system metrics to prove out key design concepts and quantify technical constraints 
  • Own all aspects of software development, including design, testing, release, and flight operations 
  • Provide strong technical leadership, focus on continuous improvement 

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS: 

  • Bachelor's degree in computer science, engineering, math, or STEM disciplineOR2+years of experience insoftware development 
  • Development experience in C/C++, Python, or other similar programming languages 

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE: 

Interested candidates who meet the basic qualifications should consider applying. The following preferred skills and experience are helpful for this role, but candidates with only some of them are able to be successful on our team. Learning on the job is critical success at SpaceX, and a core part of the excitement of working on a flight software team. 

  • Strong software design and development skills 
  • Experience designing fault tolerant, distributed, or real-time systems 
  • Cross-context test design skills, ranging from simple unit tests through to integrated hardware-in-the-loop regression and exploratory tests 
  • Thorough knowledge of computer architecture and networks 
  • Knowledge of physics, math, and electronics 
  • Strong skills in debugging, performance optimization, and performance testing 
  • Familiarity with Linux programming 
  • Ability to work effectively in a dynamic environment with changing needs and requirements 
  • Ability to work independently or in a team, take initiative, and communicate effectively in a solution-oriented manner 

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS: 

  • Willing to work extended hours and weekends when needed 

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS:    
Pay range:    
Software Engineer, Flight Software/Level I: $125,000.00 - $145,000.00/per year    
Software Engineer, Flight Software/Level II: $145,000.00 - $175,000.00/per year    
Your actual level and base salary will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on the following considerations: job-related knowledge and skills, education, and experience.

Base salary is just one part of your total rewards package at SpaceX. You may also be eligible for long-term incentives, in the form of company stock or long-term cash awards, as well as potential discretionary bonuses and the ability to purchase additional stock at a discount through an Employee Stock Purchase Plan. You will also receive access to comprehensive medical, vision, and dental coverage, access to a 401(k) retirement plan, short and long-term disability insurance, life insurance, paid parental leave, and various other discounts and perks. You may also accrue 3 weeks of paid vacation and will be eligible for 10 or more paid holidays per year. Employees in Washington State accrue paid sick time in compliance with state and federal law. Company shuttles are offered to employees for roundtrip travel from select Seattle locations to the SpaceX Redmond office Monday to Friday.   


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