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Embedded Software Engineer Jobs in Pittsburgh, PA

Embedded Software Engineer

PA · On-site

$86K - $126K/yr

As an embedded software engineer, you will work with global engineering teams to design and develop the firmware for our next generation control and monitoring systems integrated with Eaton's Circuit ...

Real-Time Embedded Software Engineer

Pittsburgh, PA · Hybrid

$127K - $168K/yr

SEI is seeking an enthusiastic experienced real-time embedded engineer to work on safety-critical embedded software. You will work closely with a variety of software and hardware systems including ...

Embedded Software Engineer

Pittsburgh, PA · Hybrid

$127K - $168K/yr

As an Embedded Software Engineer at Hellbender, you will have a key role in developing new products, including cameras and robotic sensors, from the ground up. You will have the opportunity and ...

Embedded Software Engineer

Pittsburgh, PA · Hybrid

$127K - $168K/yr

As an Embedded Software Engineer at Hellbender, you will have a key role in developing new products, including cameras and robotic sensors, from the ground up. You will have the opportunity and ...

Embedded Software Engineer

Pittsburgh, PA · On-site

$127K - $168K/yr

As an Embedded Software Engineer at Hellbender, you will have a key role in developing new products, including cameras and robotic sensors, from the ground up. You will have the opportunity and ...

Senior Embedded Software Engineer

Pittsburgh, PA · On-site +1

$120K - $157K/yr

If you are a software engineer and love the idea of working on embedded AI hardware and software compute systems to create the next generation of autonomous vehicles, we would love to talk with you.

Embedded Software Engineer

Pittsburgh, PA · On-site

$127K - $168K/yr

Bachelor's or Master's Degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering or related field with at least 5-7 years of real-time embedded software design experience or the equivalent combination ...

Embedded Software Engineer

Pittsburgh, PA · On-site

$127K - $168K/yr

Bachelor's or Master's Degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering or related field with at least 5-7 years of real-time embedded software design experience or the equivalent combination ...

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Showing results 1-20

Embedded Software Engineer information

See Pittsburgh, PA salary details

$65.4K

$143.3K

$162.6K

How much do embedded software engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for embedded software engineer in Pittsburgh, PA is $143,326.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $122,900.00 and $161,700.00 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.
What are the most commonly searched types of Embedded Software Engineer jobs in Pittsburgh, PA? The most popular types of Embedded Software Engineer jobs in Pittsburgh, PA are:
What are popular job titles related to Embedded Software Engineer jobs in Pittsburgh, PA? For Embedded Software Engineer jobs in Pittsburgh, PA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities near Pittsburgh, PA are hiring for Embedded Software Engineer jobs? Cities near Pittsburgh, PA with the most Embedded Software Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Embedded Software Engineer job openings in Pittsburgh, PA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 79% Full Time, and 21% Contract. Highlights an 94% In-person, and 6% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $143,326 per year, or $68.9 per hour.
Real-Time Embedded Software Engineer

Real-Time Embedded Software Engineer

Software Engineering Institute

Pittsburgh, PA • On-site

$127K - $168K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement

Re-posted 29 days ago


Job description

SEI advances software engineering principles and practices and serves as a national resource in software engineering and computer security. The SEI works closely with academia, defense and government organizations, and industry to continually improve software-intensive systems. We deliver innovative technologies and solutions, collaborate on research in cybersecurity and artificial intelligence systems, and transition maturing technologies into practice.
Joining the SEI means becoming part of a world-class organization at the forefront of software engineering innovation. Our work has a profound impact on software systems across both government and industry. You'll collaborate with leading experts and work with cutting-edge technologies to tackle some of the nation's most complex and critical challenges.
Position Summary:
SEI is seeking an enthusiastic experienced real-time embedded engineer to work on safety-critical embedded software. You will work closely with a variety of software and hardware systems including bare-metal embedded systems, RTOSes, FPGAs, and embedded Linux. You will have opportunities to develop tools, techniques, and processes to solve some of the most difficult software problems that our government faces.
Who you are:
  • You have a BS in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or related disciple with eight (8) years of experience; OR MS in the same fields with five (5) years of experience; OR a PhD in the same fields with two (2) years of experience.
  • You've worked in a collaborative team environment as a software developer, software engineer, verification engineer, or related field.
  • You have proficiency in one or more of the following: C, C++, VHDL, Verilog, Python, C#.
  • You've built, analyzed, debugged, and/or tested bare-metal systems and are familiar with a CMSIS/HAL/specific peripheral driver.
  • You have experience in one or more of the following: Java, Go, Rust, Ada, MATLAB.
  • You have experience with FPGAs and/or heterogenous computing boards that require communication and synchronization between specialized hardware/chips.
  • You have exposure with modern RTOSes, e.g. VxWorks or Integrity, and developed and analyzed embedded software.
  • You have worked with common embedded interfaces and protocols: I2C, CAN, SPI, RS-232, RS-422, etc.
  • You've developed embedded software and performance tests and have experience interpreting the results.
  • You have an understanding of the Department of War (DoW) Systems Engineering lifecycle.
  • You have strong communication skills and the ability to convey difficult engineering or technical challenges to stakeholders.
  • You are willing to work 100% of your week onsite at either the SEI or customer facility.
  • You can pass a background check and obtain and maintain an active Department of War (DoW) security clearance.
  • You have a willingness to travel (25%) outside of your office location to other SEI offices, sponsor sites, conferences, and offsite meetings.

What you'll do:
  • Understand complex, inter-dependent systems that hit multiple abstraction levels for embedded systems, interacting across a number of system interfaces.
  • Design and develop embedded software tools and capabilities to analyze, test, and evaluate existing software.
  • Apply systems engineering knowledge to identify and communicate weaknesses and flawed implementations of embedded functionality tracing from requirements.
  • Utilize static analysis, dynamic testing, and complexity analysis tools to uncover software weaknesses, security vulnerabilities, and instances of poor engineering judgment, guiding a high-impact, safety-critical system toward robustness, reliability, and engineering soundness.
  • Conduct research, experimentation, and present knowledge-sharing initiatives to enhance software development processes, demonstrate analytical capabilities, and foster a comprehensive understanding of system-of-systems (SoS) integration and performance.

What we offer you
Our benefits philosophy encompasses three driving priorities: choice, control, and well-being. Through Carnegie Mellon University, SEI offers a wide range of competitive employee benefits, including comprehensive health insurance, tuition benefits, generous time off, and a robust retirement savings policy to name a few.
  • Join a world-class organization that has a significant impact on software.
  • Work with cutting edge technologies and experts to solve tough problems for the government and the nation.
  • Publish your research, attend or present at prestigious events, and enjoy annual professional development opportunities.
  • Get an 8% monthly contribution for your retirement plan without having to contribute to it yourself.
  • Get tuition benefits to attend classes at Carnegie Mellon University for you and your dependent children.
  • Get access to university resources, including campus fitness facilities, mindfulness programs, childcare, free transportation on the Port Authority Transit System, and more.
  • Enjoy paid parental and military leave.
  • Work in the heart of Oakland, a few blocks from Carnegie Mellon University and the University of Pittsburgh.
  • Qualify for relocation assistance and so much more.

Location
Pittsburgh, PA
Job Function
Software/Applications Development/Engineering
Position Type
Staff - Regular
Full time/Part time
Full time
Pay Basis
SalaryMore Information:
  • Please visit "Why Carnegie Mellon" to learn more about becoming part of an institution inspiring innovations that change the world.
  • Click here to view a listing of employee benefits
  • Carnegie Mellon University is an Equal Opportunity Employer/Disability/Veteran.
  • Statement of Assurance