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Embedded Software Engineer Jobs in Madison, WI (NOW HIRING)

About Software Engineering Roles at Danaher Are you passionate about building real-world ... Supporting the development of console and embedded software systems * Troubleshooting issues and ...

About Software Engineering Roles at Danaher Are you passionate about building real-world ... Supporting the development of console and embedded software systems * Troubleshooting issues and ...

FPGA Engineer

Madison, WI

$131K - $168K/yr

Apply Now RTL, C/C++, Python, VHDL, Verilog, Tcl, cryptography, hardware, embedded software, System ... S. Government Security Clearance FPGA Engineer The EndoSec FPGA Engineer is responsible for the ...

Software Engineer III

Madison, WI · On-site

$58 - $77.75/hr

Experience integrating software with hardware, instruments, devices, or embedded systems ... Experience mentoring or supporting other engineers. * Familiarity with regulated, quality-focused ...

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Embedded Software Engineer information

See Madison, WI salary details

$70.5K

$154.6K

$175.4K

How much do embedded software engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for embedded software engineer in Madison, WI is $154,577.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $132,500.00 and $174,300.00 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 Madison, WI? The most popular types of Embedded Software Engineer jobs in Madison, WI are:
What cities near Madison, WI are hiring for Embedded Software Engineer jobs? Cities near Madison, WI with the most Embedded Software Engineer job openings:

Senior Embedded Software Engineer

Sub-Zero & Wolf Appliance

Madison, WI • On-site

$125K - $163K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

Primary Responsibilities:
 
Our embedded software engineers craft and innovate on truly unique and sophisticated controls platforms. As part of our team, you will be responsible for building high-quality software features daily. Additionally, you'll work alongside other talented software engineers to coordinate and develop multiple software platforms employed in various appliances. This includes requirements development and management, team coding, process growth, and continuing to build on our automated test platforms. Much of this role is spent focusing on the delivery and innovation of internal and external code bases. In support of those primary development efforts, you’ll work with internal customers from a wide variety of disciplines alongside your teammates to support other teams and engineers.
  • Ability to independently contribute to corporate appliance software platforms.
  • Provide requirement feedback and support for New Product Development engineers.
  • Develop detailed architectural and design documentation.
  • Create and modify user interface systems
  • Engage in collaborative coding and development.
  • Design and perform unit and system-level testing.
  • Debug software and hardware with electronics testbench equipment.
  • Actively participate in code reviews and pull requests.
  • Innovate with a focus on quality and value over speed and newness. 
Required Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's degree in computer engineering or related
  • 5+ years embedded software experience
  • Familiarity with development environments, build and version control systems, and continuous integrations/continuous deployment
  • Proficiency in C/C++ 17 (and up): Essential for developing and maintaining our embedded appliance controls
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills
  • Collaborative mindset
Preferred Qualifications:
  • Familiarity with CMake, VSCode, Visual Studio, GIT, and Azure DevOps
  • Experience with FreeRTOS on ST Micros
  • Experience with TouchGFX or similar graphical development tools
  • Familiarity with Python, CAN and RS485
  • Proficiency with Oscilloscopes, DMMs, Function Generators, and Programmable Power supplies

We value our employees by providing:

  • Competitive compensation based on skills
  • Industry leading health, dental, and vision plans
  • Generous 401 (K) savings and profit sharing
  • On-site UW Health clinic, fitness center, and walking paths
  • Education assistance and internal training programs
  • Electric vehicle charging
  • Maternity & paternity leave
  • Interested in learning more on our robust benefits package we offer? Click here!

This position requires a pre-employment drug/alcohol test and background check, which will be administered after a conditional job offer is extended. A negative drug/alcohol test result is required for employment. Refusal to take the test or a positive result may disqualify a candidate from further consideration.  All drug testing will be conducted in accordance with federal and state laws.