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Embedded Software Engineer Jobs in Tacoma, WA (NOW HIRING)

Patrick Allen Group

Embedded Software Engineer

Kent, WA · On-site

$140K - $170K/yr

We are seeking a Embedded Software Engineer who possesses a development background on a Linux Operating Systems platform with Debian based distribution. This position will be responsible for the ...

Axon

Staff Embedded Application Software Engineer

Seattle, WA · On-site

$149K - $196K/yr

Your Impact As a Staff Embedded Software Engineer, you will lead critical software engineering initiatives and set the strategic technical direction across multiple embedded product lines, including ...

Reliable Robotics

Sr. Embedded Software Engineer

Seattle, WA · On-site

$210K - $280K/yr

As a Sr. 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 ...

Stoke Space

Embedded Software Engineer - Firmware

Kent, WA · On-site

$123K - $185K/yr

Collaborate with other embedded software engineers to develop a scalable stack and maintain a coherent interface with adjacent systems * Work with electrical engineers to bring up boards, write ...

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All JobsEmbedded Software Engineer JobsEmbedded Software Engineer Jobs in Tacoma, WA

Embedded Software Engineer information

See Tacoma, WA salary details

$75.2K

$164.7K

$186.9K

How much do embedded software engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for embedded software engineer in Tacoma, WA is $164,722.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $141,200.00 and $185,800.00 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 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.
More about Embedded Software Engineer jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Embedded Software Engineer jobs in Tacoma, WA? The most popular types of Embedded Software Engineer jobs in Tacoma, WA are:
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What job categories do people searching Embedded Software Engineer jobs in Tacoma, WA look for? The top searched job categories for Embedded Software Engineer jobs in Tacoma, WA are:
What cities near Tacoma, WA are hiring for Embedded Software Engineer jobs? Cities near Tacoma, WA with the most Embedded Software Engineer job openings:
Embedded Software Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Embedded Software Engineer job openings in Tacoma, WA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, and 50% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $164,722 per year, or $79.2 per hour.
Embedded Software Engineer

Embedded Software Engineer

Patrick Allen Group

Kent, WA • On-site

$140K - $170K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 7 days ago

Job description

We are seeking a Embedded Software Engineer who possesses a development background on a Linux Operating Systems platform with Debian based distribution. This position will be responsible for the design, development, and debugging of production level code on embedded devices. Demonstrated expertise in all project lifecycle phases, from design and code development through unit testing, documentation, and release is required. Located in Kent, WA, this position is available to US Citizens or Permanent Residency (Green Card) candidates. Direct W2 applicants only, 3rd party recruitment agency submissions or inquiries will NOT be considered.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Responsible for writing low level production code for industrial applications.
  • Design, develop, and debug embedded devices.
  • Be a part of designing and taking a product to market.
  • Participate in all project lifecycle phases, from design and code development through unit testing, documentation, and release.
  • Collaborate with business stakeholders to understand needs and translate into technical requirements.

Skills and Experience:
Required:
  • 7+ years of experience with a focus in embedded software development.
  • A Bachelor of Science degree in Computer Science, Computer or Electrical Engineering, or equivalent.
  • Experienced writing C++ (11 or higher) for low level industrial applications.
  • Strong experience with modern C++, 11 or higher, is required, including the ability to communicate and implement object-oriented class designs.
  • Experience with RF and baseband device driver and signal processing design and implementation.
  • Experience with developing on Linux platforms is required; preferably with a Debian based distribution.
  • Experience developing automated unit tests and working with SDETs/QA to ensure product quality is required.
  • Usage of lab tools such as oscilloscopes or serial analyzers to debug software, and the ability to read electrical schematics.

Preferred:
  • Experience with concurrency topics (i.e. threading and inter-process communication), event loops, and asynchronous programming.
  • Knowledge with Jenkins Continuous Integration, Make and Google Test, Python, and or Golang.
  • Experience with network programming topics (e.g. TCP, UDP, sockets, REST, etc.), Standard and BLE Bluetooth, and Wi-Fi.
  • Competent with interfacing application code with device drivers on Linux.
  • Proficient with Linux kernel development, device trees, driver modification or backporting, bootloader customization, and/or Qt stack.
  • Strong understanding of Agile development.

Compensation: $140k to $170k annual

Benefits:
  • Unparalleled health benefits (PPO plan with no deductibles, no co-pays, Employer covers 99% of costs).
  • Quarterly bonuses.
  • Professional development.
  • 401k match.
  • 22 days PTO.
  • Parental leave.
  • 11 annual paid holidays plus 1 floating holiday.
  • Winter break.

Questions? If you have any questions, contact Dale via LinkedIn at http://www.linkedin.com/in/dalepcorrea