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Embedded Software Engineer Jobs in Santa Clara, CA

Fortinet, Inc.

Embedded Software Engineer

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

$96K - $118K/yr

Description As an Embedded Software Engineer on our team, you will be responsible for the design, implementation, maintenance, and continuous improvement of embedded software and core platform ...

Fortinet, Inc.

Embedded Software Engineer

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

$97 - $118/hr

Description As an Embedded Software Engineer on our team, you will be responsible for the design, implementation, maintenance, and continuous improvement of embedded software and core platform ...

Fortinet, Inc.

Embedded Software Engineer

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

$96K - $118K/yr

Description As an Embedded Software Engineer on our team, you will be responsible for the design, implementation, maintenance, and continuous improvement of embedded software and core platform ...

Fortinet

Embedded Software Engineer

Sunnyvale, CA

$96K - $118K/yr

Description As an Embedded Software Engineer on our team, you will be responsible for the design, implementation, maintenance, and continuous improvement of embedded software and core platform ...

Reliable Robotics

Embedded Software Engineer

Mountain View, CA · On-site

$155K - $204K/yr

As an Embedded Software Engineer at Reliable Robotics, you will be a part of the Embedded Systems team developing the low-level software and firmware at the heart of the Reliable Robotics autonomy ...

VBeyond Corporation

Embedded Software Engineer

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

$156K - $205K/yr

Embedded Software Engineer Location: Sunnyvale, CA or Redmond, WA(100% Onsite) Contract position (W2 only) Responsibilities: * Cross-Correlate Power estimation/measurements with the Architectural ...

Apple

Camera Embedded Software Engineer

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

$154K - $203K/yr

Apple's ISP team is looking for an extraordinary Embedded Software Engineer to drive pioneering technologies for Apple products. As part of the team you will work on core camera and ISP technologies ...

Project Canary

Embedded Software Engineer

Hayward, CA

$170K - $190K/yr

The Embedded Software Engineer will be working with the Engineering team at Aeris Technologies, based out of our office in Hayward, CA. They will focus on writing firmware for embedded systems in the ...

Project Canary

Embedded Software Engineer

Hayward, CA · On-site

$170K - $190K/yr

The Embedded Software Engineer will be working with the Engineering team at Aeris Technologies, based out of our office in Hayward, CA. They will focus on writing firmware for embedded systems in the ...

Tau

Senior Embedded Software Engineer

Redwood City, CA

$170K - $210K/yr

About The Role Tau Motors seeks a highly skilled and experienced Senior Embedded Software Engineer to join our team. You will drive the development of Tau's cutting-edge software-enabled platforms ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsEmbedded Software Engineer JobsEmbedded Software Engineer Jobs in Santa Clara, CA

Embedded Software Engineer information

See Santa Clara, CA salary details

$82.2K

$180.1K

$204.4K

How much do embedded software engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for embedded software engineer in Santa Clara, CA is $180,139.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $154,400.00 and $203,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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.

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 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.

Are embedded software engineers in demand?

Embedded software engineers are in high demand due to the growth of IoT, automotive, medical devices, and consumer electronics industries. They often require skills in C, C++, and real-time operating systems, with job opportunities increasing globally as embedded systems become more integral to technology development.
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Embedded Software Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Embedded Software Engineer job openings in Santa Clara, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $180,139 per year, or $86.6 per hour.

Embedded Software Engineer

Fortinet, Inc.

Sunnyvale, CA • On-site

$96K - $118K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 13 days ago

Job description


Description
As an Embedded Software Engineer on our team, you will be responsible for the design, implementation, maintenance, and continuous improvement of embedded software and core platform modules that power Fortinet's networking and security appliances.
This is a high-visibility role within the engineering organization and will be instrumental in collaborating with hardware, platform, QA, and cross-functional teams across Fortinet to understand requirements and deliver scalable, reliable, and high-quality embedded solutions that can grow with the business. The successful candidate must be a strong hands-on engineer with expertise in embedded systems, embedded networking, and low-level software development, with the ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment.
Principal Responsibilities
  • Participate in the development and maintenance of existing and next-generation firewall product suites.
  • Design, implement, and maintain core platform modules for embedded networking and security appliances.
  • Develop and enhance low-level software components, including device drivers, kernel modules, and board support packages (BSPs).
  • Take ownership of significant areas of the codebase for both new feature development and maintenance or redesign of existing product areas.
  • Support all phases of the software development life cycle, including requirements gathering, design, implementation, testing, validation, and deployment.
  • Collaborate closely with hardware teams on board bring-up, platform integration, debugging, and validation of new systems.
  • Optimize software for performance, scalability, memory efficiency, reliability, and maintainability.
  • Debug and resolve complex issues across hardware and software layers using a structured and systematic approach.
  • Contribute to embedded platform architecture, software design decisions, and long-term technical improvements.
  • Participate in code reviews, CI/testing, and development best practices to ensure high-quality deliverables.
  • Follow secure coding practices and support the development of security-focused product features.
  • Continuously contribute to product improvements in performance, scalability, reliability, and maintainability.

Qualifications / Skills Required
  • Bachelor's degree or advanced degree in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or a related field.
  • Strong proficiency in C and/or C++ programming.
  • Experience with embedded Linux systems and low-level software development.
  • Solid understanding of operating system concepts, including memory management, processes, concurrency, and multi-threaded systems.
  • Strong problem-solving and debugging skills, with the ability to analyze complex multivariate problems and drive efficient resolution.
  • Understanding of L2-L4 network protocols and networking fundamentals such as TCP/IP, routing, and switching.
  • Experience with hardware interfaces such as SPI, I2C, UART, PCIe, or similar system interfaces.
  • Familiarity with debugging and validation tools such as GDB, JTAG, oscilloscopes, or logic analyzers.
  • Good written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to work effectively across teams.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience developing software for cybersecurity, firewall, networking, or appliance-based products.
  • Good understanding of Linux kernel internals and kernel development.
  • Familiarity with ARM64 and/or x86 architectures.
  • Experience with bootloaders and platform bring-up workflows.
  • Experience with secure firmware development, encryption, authentication, or system hardening.
  • Exposure to DSL, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, or 3G/4G/5G networking technologies is a plus.
  • Understanding of real-time, distributed, and performance-sensitive embedded systems is a plus.

Why Join Us
At Fortinet, you will be part of a global leader in cybersecurity innovation and work on technologies that protect organizations around the world. You will have the opportunity to solve challenging system-level problems, contribute to high-performance embedded platforms, and grow your career alongside a highly skilled engineering team in a collaborative, fast-paced environment.
We encourage candidates from all backgrounds and identities to apply. We offer a supportive work environment and a competitive Total Rewards package to support you with your overall health and financial well-being.
Embark on a challenging, enjoyable, and rewarding career journey with Fortinet. Join us in bringing solutions that make a meaningful and lasting impact to our 660,000+ customers around the globe.
Must be authorized to work in the U.S. without sponsorship
The US base salary range for this full-time position is $96,800-$118,300. Fortinet offers employees a variety of benefits, including medical, dental, vision, life and disability insurance, 401(k), 11 paid holidays, vacation time, and sick time, as well as a comprehensive leave program.
Wage ranges are based on various factors, including the labour market, job type, and job level. Exact salary offers will be determined by factors such as the candidate's subject knowledge, skill level, qualifications, experience, and geographic location.
All roles are eligible to participate in the Fortinet equity program. Bonus eligibility is reviewed at the time of hire and annually at the Company's discretion.
About Us
Fortinet (NASDAQ: FTNT) secures the largest enterprise, service provider, and government organizations around the world. Fortinet empowers its customers with intelligent, seamless protection across the expanding attack surface and the power to take on ever-increasing performance requirements of the borderless network - today and into the future. Only the Fortinet Security Fabric architecture can deliver security without compromise to address the most critical security challenges, whether in networked, application, cloud or mobile environments. Fortinet ranks number one in the most security appliances shipped worldwide and more than 500,000 customers trust Fortinet to protect their businesses.
We are committed to providing reasonable accommodations for all qualified individuals with disabilities. If you require assistance or accommodation due to a disability, please contact us at accommodations@fortinet.com.
Fortinet is an equal opportunity employer. We value diversity in our company, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, military/veteran status or any other applicable legally protected characteristics in the location in which the candidate is applying.

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