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Embedded Software Engineer Jobs in Philadelphia, PA

Senior Software Engineer

Camden, NJ · On-site

$123K - $162K/yr

Senior Embedded Software Engineer Department: Engineering Location: Camden, NJ - Onsite Role Type: Contract, Full-time position (9/80 Schedule with 8am start time) Clearance: Secret About Our Client ...

Lead Software Developer

Philadelphia, PA

$117K - $146K/yr

Embedded Software Engineer - QNX / Ethernet/ SOME-IP Location: Auburn Hills, MI Duration: Full-Time / Long-Term Please ensure candidates have experience in: * QNX / POSIX RTOS * Adaptive AUTOSAR

Embedded Software Engineer - MES Level Job Code: 37063 Job Location: Camden, NJ Schedule: 9/80 reg with every other Friday off Are you ready to take your engineering career to the next level and be a ...

Software Engineer (MES)

Camden, NJ · On-site

$91K - $135K/yr

Embedded Software Engineer - MES Level Job Code: 37063 Job Location: Camden, NJ Schedule: 9/80 reg with every other Friday off Are you ready to take your engineering career to the next level and be a ...

THE WORK The Staff Software Engineer will join the Launchers Software Development group reporting ... embedded software development, and software integration and test. Please Note: This position ...

Job Title: Software Engineer This Software Engineer role focuses on designing, developing ... Experience with embedded software development is beneficial. * Experience with software development ...

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Showing results 1-20

Embedded Software Engineer information

See Philadelphia, PA salary details

$70.6K

$154.8K

$175.6K

How much do embedded software engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for embedded software engineer in Philadelphia, PA is $154,777.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $132,700.00 and $174,600.00 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 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 Philadelphia, PA? The most popular types of Embedded Software Engineer jobs in Philadelphia, PA are:
What job categories do people searching Embedded Software Engineer jobs in Philadelphia, PA look for? The top searched job categories for Embedded Software Engineer jobs in Philadelphia, PA are:
What cities near Philadelphia, PA are hiring for Embedded Software Engineer jobs? Cities near Philadelphia, PA with the most Embedded Software Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Embedded Software Engineer job openings in Philadelphia, PA as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $154,777 per year, or $74.4 per hour.
Senior Software Engineer

Senior Software Engineer

Catapult Solutions Group

Camden, NJ • On-site

$123K - $162K/yr

Contractor

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 14 days ago


Job description

Senior Embedded Software Engineer
Department: Engineering
Location: Camden, NJ - Onsite
Role Type: Contract, Full-time position (9/80 Schedule with 8am start time)
Clearance: Secret
About Our Client
Our client is a leading defense technology company specializing in C5 (Command, Control, Communications, Computers, and Cyber) and Cyber Solution systems for mission-critical applications. With a strong focus on innovation and engineering excellence, they develop advanced embedded systems that support national security objectives. The company utilizes modern software development methodologies including Agile/Scrum practices to deliver high-quality, reliable solutions for government and defense clients. Their engineering teams work with state-of-the-art technologies in secure environments to create embedded software applications that meet rigorous performance and security requirements. The organization is committed to technical excellence and maintaining the highest standards in software engineering practices while supporting critical defense infrastructure.
Job Description
As a Senior Embedded Software Engineer, you will serve as a subject matter expert within the Integrated Mission Systems division, translating complex requirements into working and maintainable solutions for C5 and Cyber Solution Centers. This position involves applying technical proficiency across various stages of the software development lifecycle, gathering requirements, and working closely with stakeholders to prioritize and scope tasks.
Your day-to-day responsibilities will include providing guidance and direction to software engineers, investigating and resolving complex issues, and implementing solutions while working independently or with multi-disciplinary teams. You will apply computer science, engineering, and mathematical analysis concepts in developing software for target hardware platforms, primarily using C/C++ and Python for embedded real-time operating systems.
The ideal candidate is passionate about embedded systems, has a strong background in real-time operating systems, and excels in collaborative environments. As a key member of a Scrum team, you will be instrumental in setting direction and strategy for product and infrastructure development, contributing to critical defense technology solutions.
Duties and Responsibilities
  • Support engineering team members as a subject matter expert in embedded software application development.
  • Provide guidance and direction to one or more software engineers on technical challenges and best practices.
  • Investigate root causes of complex issues and implement solutions independently or with multi-discipline teams.
  • Apply computer science, engineering, and mathematical analysis concepts in developing software for target hardware.
  • Collaborate with cross-functional team members to develop and evaluate hardware-software interfaces.
  • Define and assess operational performance requirements and contribute to overall system design.
  • Participate in all phases of the software development lifecycle from requirements to formal testing.
  • Develop software test plans, procedures, and relevant technical documentation.
  • Utilize modeling tools and equipment for experimental tests, prototyping, and result evaluation.
  • Participate in peer reviews and manage the identification, tracking, and repair of defects.
  • Implement software for embedded real-time operating systems using C/C++ and Python.
  • Contribute to Scrum team activities including planning, daily stand-ups, and retrospectives.

Required Experience/Skills
  • Active Department of Defense (DoD) Secret clearance.
  • Bachelor's or Master's degree in Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or related field.
  • 6+ years of experience developing applications on simulated and target hardware.
  • Experience with Real-Time Operating Systems (RTOS) such as Green Hills Integrity, VxWorks, or similar.
  • Proficiency in C/C++ programming for embedded systems.
  • Experience with Python for development and testing.
  • Strong problem-solving skills and ability to debug complex system issues.
  • Excellent oral and written communication skills.
  • Ability to work effectively in a team environment using Agile/Scrum methodologies.

Nice-to-Haves
  • Object-oriented design and implementation experience.
  • Exposure to software modeling and UML tools such as IBM Rhapsody or MagicDraw/Cameo.
  • Experience developing device drivers and Board Support Packages for real-time embedded systems.
  • Experience with Modern C++ techniques and best practices.
  • Background in Information Assurance and/or cryptography.
  • Experience with NSA Type 1 certification or other software certification standards such as DO-178.
  • Knowledge of software security principles and secure coding practices.
  • Experience with version control systems and continuous integration tools.
  • Familiarity with hardware interfaces such as SPI, I2C, UART, and other communication protocols.

Education
Bachelor's or Master's degree in Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or related field required.
Additional certifications in relevant technologies or methodologies are beneficial.
Pay & Benefits Summary
Competitive salary commensurate with experience and security clearance level.
Comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, and vision insurance.
401(k) retirement plan with company matching.
9/80 work schedule providing every other Friday off.
Join our elite team of embedded software engineers developing mission-critical systems for national security! Apply now to contribute your expertise to cutting-edge defense technology solutions.
Keywords: Embedded Software Engineer | RTOS | C/C++ | Defense Technology | Cyber Systems | Real-Time Systems | Secret Clearance | Embedded Programming | Software Development | Camden NJ