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Embedded Software Engineer Jobs in Highlands Ranch, CO

Blue Origin

Embedded Software Engineer II

Denver, CO · 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 ...

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All JobsEmbedded Software Engineer JobsEmbedded Software Engineer Jobs in Highlands Ranch, CO

Embedded Software Engineer information

See Highlands Ranch, CO salary details

$73.5K

$161K

$182.6K

How much do embedded software engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for embedded software engineer in Highlands Ranch, CO is $160,993.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $138,000.00 and $181,600.00 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 popular job titles related to Embedded Software Engineer jobs in Highlands Ranch, CO? For Embedded Software Engineer jobs in Highlands Ranch, CO, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities near Highlands Ranch, CO are hiring for Embedded Software Engineer jobs? Cities near Highlands Ranch, CO with the most Embedded Software Engineer job openings:
Embedded Software Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Embedded Software Engineer job openings in Highlands Ranch, CO as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 79% Full Time, and 21% Contract. Highlights an 93% In-person, and 7% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $160,993 per year, or $77.4 per hour.
Senior Embedded Software Engineer II

Senior Embedded Software Engineer II

CesiumAstro

Westminster, CO • On-site

$133K - $161K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 17 days ago

Job description

Please Note: To conform with the United States Government Space Technology Export Regulations, the applicant must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S., conditional resident, asylee or refugee (protected individuals as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3)), or eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State.
 
At CesiumAstro, we are developers and pioneers of out-of-the-box communication systems for satellites, UAVs, launch vehicles, and other space and airborne platforms. We take pride in our dynamic and cross-functional work environment, which allows us to learn, develop, and engage across our organization. If you are looking for hands-on, interactive, and autonomous work, CesiumAstro is the place for you. We are actively seeking passionate, collaborative, energetic, and forward-thinking individuals to join our team.
 
The Skylark product line is focused on the rapid design, build, and test of cutting-edge active phased array antennas (AESA) for terrestrial and airborne applications. Current programs span high-power, large-scale ground terminals for missile defense to commercial airline and helicopter connectivity solutions.  

We are seeking an experienced Senior Embedded Software Engineer II with a strong background in developing embedded applications using Linux and Yocto. The ideal candidate will have hands-on expertise in embedded systems, device drivers, kernel modifications, and boot loaders, with a preference for experience on the Xilinx platform (though experience on other microcontrollers is also acceptable).
 
As a Cesium software team member, you will be responsible for software designs from concept through production, including product roadmaps, block diagrams, detailed design and coding, analysis, test, qualification, and in-orbit support. The ideal candidate will have development experience at nearly every level of the software stack, including microcontrollers, low-level drivers, board support packages (BSP), and user interfaces with an emphasis on applications and data management. Additionally, the ideal candidate will have experience in software testing and high-reliability qualification, as well as software engineering and software project management practices.
 
The successful candidate will present engineering design review materials to our customers and executive team, as well as participate in proposal-writing efforts. As such, excellent written and verbal communication skills are required. 
JOB DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Develop and port embedded Linux applications, custom device drivers, and libraries.
  • Configure, modify, and integrate the Linux kernel and embedded boot loaders.
  • Work extensively with U-Boot, and Linux kernel configuration.
  • Maintain and support the Yocto build system in a CI/CD environment.
  • Package and deploy software images for various hardware platforms.
  • Create and manage Linux images tailored to specific embedded hardware.
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure system integration and performance.
JOB REQUIREMENTS AND MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
  • Bachelor of Science (BS) or Master of Science (MS) degree in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or Computer Engineering. 
  • Minimum of 6 years of industry experience in software development. 
  • Experience in hands-on development and troubleshooting of software systems and hardware (such as motors, power distribution units, etc.). 
  • Programming experience in C or C++. 
  • Familiarity with software configuration management tools, defect tracking tools, and peer review. 
  • Excellent understanding of multi-threaded applications and resource management. 
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills. 
PREFERRED EXPERIENCE
  • Strong hands-on experience with Embedded Linux and Yocto.
  • Familiarity with Xilinx platforms or other microcontroller-based systems.
  • Experience with boot loaders, kernel-level development, and CI/CD pipelines.
  • Proven ability to work independently and manage multiple development tasks.
CesiumAstro considers several factors when extending an offer, including but not limited to, the role and associated responsibilities, a candidate’s work experience, education/training, and key skills.  Full-time employment offers include company stock options and a generous benefits package including health, dental, vision, HSA, FSA, life, disability and retirement plans.  
 
CesiumAstro is an Equal Opportunity employer.  All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, protected Veteran Status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.
 
Please note: CesiumAstro does not accept unsolicited resumes from contract agencies or search firms. Any unsolicited resumes submitted to our website or to CesiumAstro team members will be considered property of CesiumAstro, and we will not be obligated to pay any referral fees.

We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses and identifying potential inconsistencies or verification signals in application materials based on available information. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.