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Embedded Software Engineer Jobs in California, MD

Bectech Inc

Software Engineer

Dahlgren, VA · On-site

The Combat System Software Development team is seeking a Software Engineer to join their program in King George, VA. The qualified applicant will support the Navy's Enterprise Modeling and Simulation ...

Sabre Systems, LLC

Software Engineer

Patuxent River, MD · On-site

They are seeking a Software Engineer to support the Airborne Acoustic Signal Processing team in developing and integrating software solutions for the P-8A aircraft. Responsibilities : • Apply ...

BecTech, Inc.

Software Engineer

Dahlgren, VA · On-site

Job Summary : BecTech, Inc. is seeking a Software Engineer to join their Combat System Software Development team. The role involves supporting the Navy's Enterprise Modeling and Simulation ...

Peerless Technologies

Software Engineer

Dahlgren, VA · On-site

Team Peerless is looking for a Software Engineer to join our Enhanced Modeling and Simulation (M&S) team. In this role, you'll collaborate with a multidisciplinary group of software engineers, data ...

CACI International, Inc.

Software Engineer

Dahlgren, VA · On-site

$66K - $133K/yr

Software Engineer Job Category: Engineering Time Type: Full time Minimum Clearance Required to Start: Secret Employee Type: Regular Percentage of Travel Required: Up to 10% Type of Travel:

Job Openings

Software Engineer

Dahlgren, VA · On-site

We have an opportunity for an enthusiastic Software Engineer with a desire to grow while working with a skilled and highly motivated team on leading-edge work. Our team provides IT services for ...

Zekiah Technologies

Software Engineer

Dahlgren, VA · On-site

Job Type Full-time Description We have an opportunity for an enthusiastic Software Engineer with a desire to grow while working with a skilled and highly motivated team on leading-edge work. Our team ...

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Showing results 1-20

All JobsEmbedded Software Engineer JobsEmbedded Software Engineer Jobs in California, MD

Embedded Software Engineer information

See California, MD salary details

$67.1K

$147K

$166.7K

How much do embedded software engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for embedded software engineer in California, MD is $146,985.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $126,000.00 and $165,800.00 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 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.
More about Embedded Software Engineer jobs
What cities near California, MD are hiring for Embedded Software Engineer jobs? Cities near California, MD with the most Embedded Software Engineer job openings:
Embedded Software Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Embedded Software Engineer job openings in California, MD as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, and 8% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $146,985 per year, or $70.7 per hour.
SOFTWARE ENGINEER II - TESTING

SOFTWARE ENGINEER II - TESTING

Platform Aerospace

Hollywood, MD • On-site

$96K - $115K/yr

Full-time

Posted yesterday

Job description

JOB TITLE: SOFTWARE ENGINEER II – TESTING

DEPARTMENT: SOFTWARE ENGINEERING

REPORTS TO: SENIOR SOFTWARE ENGINEER

CLASSIFICATION: FULL-TIME

CLEARANCE: SECRET
LOCATION: HOLLYWOOD, MD

Job Summary:

The Software Engineer II is responsible for designing, developing, and maintaining software for embedded systems that support the company’s products and aircraft platforms. This role develops software solutions to support product development, evaluate vendor-supplied components, and enhance aircraft testing capabilities.


Working closely with multidisciplinary engineering teams, the Software Engineer II supports system integration, troubleshooting, and continuous software improvement. The Software Engineer II position is responsible for testing and performance of developed code. The Software Engineering II position must design high-quality, highly reliable code to ensure system performance.


Duties/Responsibilities:

  • Enhance aircraft and subsystem testing capabilities through the development of automated and custom test solutions
  • Enhance aircraft and subsystem testing capabilities through the development of automated and custom test solutions.
  • Design and implement software tools to support product development and evaluate vendor-supplied components.
  • Develop software for test systems supporting company aircraft products and platforms.
  • Collaborate with cross-functional engineering teams to integrate testing in to the software and hardware architectures.
  • Troubleshoot software and hardware issues identified during development, integration, and testing activities.
  • Participate in software design, code reviews, and system architecture discussions.
  • Create and maintain software documentation, test procedures, technical requirements, and interface specifications.
  • Verify software functionality through unit, Static/dynamic, integration, and system-level testing.
  • Support research and development efforts for new technologies and product improvements.
  • Work within the AS9100 Quality Management System (QMS) and recommend process improvements where applicable.
  • Support program execution by understanding technical requirements, schedules, and project objectives.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.

Basic Requirements:

  • Bachelor’s degree in Software Engineering, Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related engineering discipline.
  • 2+ years of relevant software development experience.
  • Ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance (U.S. Citizenship required)
  • Experience developing software for embedded systems.
  • Proficiency in C/C++ and familiarity with Python or similar scripting languages.
  • Experience with software debugging, testing, and version control systems.
  • Familiarity with embedded hardware interfaces and communication protocols.
  • Strong analytical, problem-solving, and troubleshooting skills.
  • Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a multidisciplinary engineering environment.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Experience in aerospace, defense, or unmanned aircraft systems.
  • Familiarity with Linux or real-time operating systems.
  • Experience with automated test environments and hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) testing.
  • Experience supporting hardware integration and system testing.
  • Active Clearance

Physical Requirements:

    • Must be able to perform the physical requirements of the job, moving and/or lifting objects weighing up to 50 pounds.
    • Ability to work extended hours, weekends, or flexible schedules in support of operational requirements.

Actual compensation will be based on a variety of factors, including but not limited to the candidate’s relevant experience, education and training, job-related knowledge and skills, the scope and level of responsibility of the position, internal equity, and market/business considerations. The listed range is a general guideline and may vary based on the selected candidate’s qualifications and work location, where applicable.