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Embedded Software Engineer Jobs in Worcester, MA

Embedded Software Engineer II

Westford, MA · On-site

$136K - $179K/yr

To learn more about our Principal Embedded Software Engineer opportunity, keep reading! Johnson Controls is searching for a Principal Embedded Software Engineer to be located at the R&D facility in ...

What you'll do This is a role for a Embedded Software Engineer who is eager to contribute to a small, fast-paced team. You will develop software to support encrypted communications systems including ...

Embedded Software Engineer II

Westford, MA · Hybrid

$136K - $179K/yr

To learn more about our Principal Embedded Software Engineer opportunity, keep reading! Johnson Controls is searching for a Principal Embedded Software Engineer to be located at the R&D facility in ...

As a Senior Embedded Software Engineer with us, you will be responsible for managing and facilitating the proper design and implementation of complex software and software / hardware integrated ...

You will manage and mentor a diverse engineering team of 50+ professionals fostering a high ... Hands-on embedded software development experience, proficiency in C/C++, agile and waterfall ...

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Showing results 1-20

Embedded Software Engineer information

See Worcester, MA salary details

$69.8K

$153K

$173.6K

How much do embedded software engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 25, 2026, the average yearly pay for embedded software engineer in Worcester, MA is $153,049.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $131,200.00 and $172,600.00 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 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 Worcester, MA? The most popular types of Embedded Software Engineer jobs in Worcester, MA are:
What are popular job titles related to Embedded Software Engineer jobs in Worcester, MA? For Embedded Software Engineer jobs in Worcester, MA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Embedded Software Engineer jobs in Worcester, MA look for? The top searched job categories for Embedded Software Engineer jobs in Worcester, MA are:
What cities near Worcester, MA are hiring for Embedded Software Engineer jobs? Cities near Worcester, MA with the most Embedded Software Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Embedded Software Engineer job openings in Worcester, MA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 84% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $153,049 per year, or $73.6 per hour.
Embedded Software Engineer II

Embedded Software Engineer II

Johnson Controls

Westford, MA • On-site

$136K - $179K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 15 days ago


Johnson Controls rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 401 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

134th of 535 rated manufacturers


Job description

Build your best future with the Johnson Controls team!
As a global leader in smart, healthy, and sustainable buildings, our mission is to reimagine the performance of buildings to serve people, places, and the planet. Join a winning team that enables you to build your best future! Our teams are uniquely positioned to support a multitude of industries across the globe. You will have the opportunity to develop yourself through meaningful work projects and learning opportunities. We strive to provide our employees with an experience focused on supporting their physical, financial, and emotional well-being. Become a member of the Johnson Controls family and thrive in an empowering company culture where your voice and ideas will be heard - your next great opportunity is just a few clicks away!
What we offer:
  • Competitive Salary

  • Paid vacation/holidays/sick time

  • Comprehensive benefits package including 401K, medical, dental, and vision care

  • On the job/cross training opportunities

  • Encouraging and collaborative team environment

  • Dedication to safety through our Zero Harm policy

Our global Fire Detection product group located in Westford, MA, offers you the possibility to interact with other development centers and teams around the world! The opportunity for professional development and career opportunities are endless, given our broad portfolio of products and services within Fire Detection. Work/life balance is important to us, and we offer a flexible hybrid work model. You will also get exposure to leading edge technology, exciting projects, and life-saving products that promote global safety of not only facilities, but people. We need your talent and ideas, as we continue to grow and expand our strategic focus and build state of the art fire detection systems. To learn more about our Principal Embedded Software Engineer opportunity, keep reading!
Johnson Controls is searching for a Principal Embedded Software Engineer to be located at the R&D facility in Westford, MA. In this role you will be part of a team developing the next generation of embedded applications for the Fire Detection business at Johnson Controls. Our fire detection products are installed in buildings you visit every day! This is an opportunity to analyze, design, program, debug, modify, test, and implement software used in Fire Alarm Systems.
Position Summary
We are seeking a motivated Embedded Software Engineer to join our engineering team. This role is ideal for early-career engineers who are passionate about developing software for embedded systems and enjoy solving technical challenges at the intersection of hardware and software.
The successful candidate will contribute to the design, development, testing, and maintenance of embedded software for products and platforms. Working closely with senior engineers, systems engineers, hardware designers, and quality teams, you will help deliver reliable, high-quality solutions throughout the product lifecycle.
Key Responsibilities
  • Design, develop, debug, and maintain embedded software applications and firmware.

  • Implement software features using C/C++ and other applicable programming languages.

  • Develop software for microcontrollers, processors, and real-time embedded systems.

  • Participate in software architecture, design reviews, and code reviews.

  • Create and execute unit, integration, and system-level tests.

  • Support debugging efforts using oscilloscopes, logic analyzers, JTAG debuggers, and other development tools.

  • Investigate and resolve software defects and performance issues.

  • Collaborate with hardware, systems, and test engineers to integrate software with embedded platforms.

  • Develop and maintain technical documentation, including software design specifications and test procedures.

  • Follow software development processes, coding standards, and quality requirements.

  • Participate in continuous improvement initiatives related to software quality, development efficiency, and product reliability.

Required Qualifications
Embedded Software Engineer I
  • Bachelor's degree in Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field.

  • 0-3 years of experience in embedded software development (including product development, internships, co-ops, or academic projects).

  • Experience programming in C and/or C++.

  • Experience with embedded Linux, RTOS, or bare-metal development environments.

  • Understanding of embedded systems fundamentals.

  • Basic knowledge of software debugging and troubleshooting techniques.

  • Familiarity with Git or other version control systems.

  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.

  • Effective verbal and written communication skills.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience with ARM-based microcontrollers or processors.

  • Familiarity with communication protocols such as:

  • SPI, I2C, UART, Ethernet, and USB

  • Knowledge of RTOS environments such as FreeRTOS, ThreadX, or Zephyr.

  • Exposure to embedded Linux development.

  • Experience with scripting languages such as Python.

  • Understanding of software testing, automated testing, and continuous integration practices.

  • Familiarity with secure software development practices.

  • Experience working in regulated industries such as aerospace, defense, medical, automotive, or industrial automation.

SALARY RANGE: $94,000 - $141,000 (Salary to be determined by the education, experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities of the applicant, internal equity, and alignment with market data.) This position includes a competitive benefits package. The posted salary range reflects the target compensation for this role. However, we recognize that exceptional candidates may bring unique skills and experiences that exceed the typical profile. If you believe your background warrants consideration beyond the stated range, we encourage you to apply. To support an efficient and fair hiring process, we may use technology assisted tools, including artificial intelligence (AI), to help identify and evaluate candidates. All hiring decisions are ultimately made by human reviewers. For details, please visit the About Us tab on the Johnson Controls Careers site at https://jobs.johnsoncontrols.com/about-us
Johnson Controls International plc. is an equal employment opportunity and affirmative action employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, protected veteran status, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity, status as a qualified individual with a disability or any other characteristic protected by law. To view more information about your equal opportunity and non-discrimination rights as a candidate, visit EEO is the Law. If you are an individual with a disability and you require an accommodation during the application process, please visit here.

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About Johnson Controls

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Johnson Controls is a world leader in smart buildings, creating safe, healthy and sustainable spaces. For nearly 140 years, we’ve made buildings better and now we’re transforming them again with our award-winning digital technologies and services. We’re using artificial intelligence and data driven solutions to give you deeper insight into your building’s health, sustainability and performance. It’s changing the way we design, operate and maintain indoor environments and driving to a new era of autonomous buildings. We deliver the blueprint of the future for industries such as healthcare, schools, data centers, airports, stadiums, hotels, manufacturing and beyond through OpenBlue, our comprehensive suite of connected solutions. Johnson Controls offers the world’s largest portfolio of building technology, software and services. Supported by a team of more than 100,000 dedicated employees working across 150 countries, we’re helping customers achieve their sustainability goals and power their mission.

Industry

Machinery manufacturing, water transportation, public safety statistics centers and offices and manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Milwaukee, WI, US