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Embedded Software Engineer Jobs in La Crosse, WI

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Embedded Software Engineer information

See La Crosse, WI salary details

$68.7K

$150.6K

$170.8K

How much do embedded software engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for embedded software engineer in La Crosse, WI is $150,579.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $129,100.00 and $169,800.00 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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an embedded software engineer?

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 is an embedded software engineer?

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.

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.
More about Embedded Software Engineer jobs
What are popular job titles related to Embedded Software Engineer jobs in La Crosse, WI? For Embedded Software Engineer jobs in La Crosse, WI, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities near La Crosse, WI are hiring for Embedded Software Engineer jobs? Cities near La Crosse, WI with the most Embedded Software Engineer job openings:
Embedded Software Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Embedded Software Engineer job openings in La Crosse, WI as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 61% Full Time, and 39% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $150,579 per year, or $72.4 per hour.

Senior Controls and Automation Engineer

S & S Cycle

Viola, WI • On-site

$96K - $126K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 10 days ago

Job description

POSITION TITLE: Senior Controls and Automation Engineer

DEPARTMENT: Engineering

REPORTS TO: Engineering Manager

LOCATION: Viola


JOB SUMMARY:

A Senior Controls & Automation Engineer to design, build, and support custom automated test equipment, manufacturing systems, and embedded control solutions for powertrain development and production support.This role bridges industrial automation, embedded hardware/firmware, and system integration, supporting everything from robotic test cells and PLC-controlled machinery to ECU-integrated embedded devices and Windows-based engineering tools.


The ideal candidate is a hands-on engineer comfortable working across electrical design, firmware, PLCs, robotics, HMIs, and on-site commissioning of one-off and low-volume systems


ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

Industrial Automation & Controls

  • Design, modify, and maintain automated test stands, endurance systems, and manufacturing equipment

  • Program and troubleshoot PLCs and HMIs for presses, test fixtures, and special-purpose machinery

  • Integrate industrial robots with presses and test systems, including interlocks and safety logic

  • Retrofit and modernize legacy equipment where original electronics or controls are obsolete

  • Support and repair custom, one-off automation equipment used in engineering and manufacturing


Embedded Hardware & Firmware

  • Design custom embedded control hardware for test systems and product prototypes

  • Develop firmware in C/C++ for microcontroller-based controllers

  • Implement CAN bus communication with ECUs and vehicle subsystems

  • Create embedded solutions for sensors, actuators, motor control, and data acquisition

  • Support prototype development through testing, iteration, and limited production readiness


Test Systems & Instrumentation

  • Develop automated engine and motorcycle test systems for endurance, EPA mileage accumulation, and performance testing

  • Build systems for dyno automation, robotic control, and long-duration unattended operation

  • Integrate sensors, cameras, and data acquisition hardware for mechanical and powertrain analysis

  • Develop data visualization and processing tools for test and lab environments


Software & Interfaces

  • Develop Windows-based engineering and test applications (Visual Studio / C#)

  • Interface off-the-shelf HMIs and custom hardware for operator control and remote monitoring

  • Support configuration and calibration tools for embedded and test systems


ECU & System Integration

  • Integrate and interface with automotive ECUs, including CAN messaging and control features

  • Support ECU feature development and experimentation for R&D projects

  • Work closely with engineering and manufacturing teams to support powertrain development

  • Reverse engineer CAN bus data in order to interface various ECUs with custom test equipment



QUALIFICATIONS:

  • Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Mechatronics, or equivalent experience

  • 5+ years experience in industrial automation, controls engineering, or custom machinery

  • Strong experience with:

    • PLC programming and industrial I/O

    • Embedded firmware development (C/C++)

    • Electrical schematics and hardware design, PCB layout.

    • Sensors, actuators, motors, VFDs, and safety circuits

  • Hands-on experience commissioning and troubleshooting machines in real-world environments

  • Comfortable working independently on one-off and prototype systems

  • Ability to work independently in a small company with entrepreneurial energy and creative tendencies

  • General interest in the motorcycle/motorsports industry a plus


WORKING CONDITIONS & PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

  • Work is performed in an office environment with occasional exposure to test cells and production environment

  • While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to sit, stand, walk, use hands, reach with hands and arms, and may be required to balance, stoop, kneel or crawl.

  • The employee may occasionally lift and/or move up to 20 pounds

  • Must comply with safety equipment standards: safety glasses, hearing protection, and safety toe shoes when present on production floor

  • Occasional overnight travel may be required


Applicants must be authorized to work in the United States without the need for current or future employer-sponsored work authorization