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Embedded Software Engineering Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Three Point Solutions

Embedded Software Engineer

Cary, NC · On-site

$60 - $64/hr

Cary, NC 27513 Duration: 12 Months Shift: 1st Shift (8:00 AM - 5:00 PM) Job Summary Embedded software engineering role focused on design, development, and validation of software systems . Involves ...

Platform Aerospace

EMBEDDED SOFTWARE ENGINEER III

Hollywood, MD · On-site

$125K - $165K/yr

SOFTWARE ENGINEERING REPORTS TO: SENIOR SOFTWARE ENGINEER CLASSIFICATION: EXEMPT PRIMARY FUNCTION We are seeking a talented and experienced Embedded Software Engineer to join our Software Engineering ...

Geologics

Embedded Software Engineer

Grand Prairie, TX

$80 - $96/hr

Embedded Software Engineer Location: Grand Prairie, TX 75052 Rate: $80 to $96.00 an hour with ... Experience in software engineering and software development * Ability to interpret program needs ...

Geologics

Embedded Software Engineer

Grand Prairie, TX

$80 - $96/hr

Embedded Software Engineer Location: Grand Prairie, TX 75052 Rate: $80 to $96.00 an hour with ... Experience in software engineering and software development * Ability to interpret program needs ...

XTEND

Embedded Software Engineer

Tampa, FL · On-site

$124K - $163K/yr

Sc. in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, Software Engineering, or related technical discipline. Experience - 3+ years of hands-on experience in embedded software or ...

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Embedded Software Engineering information

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How much do embedded software engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for embedded software engineering in the United States is $153,383.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $131,500.00 and $173,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 write code in languages like C or C++, often using specialized tools and real-time operating systems to ensure efficient and reliable device performance.

What engineers make $500,000?

Senior embedded software engineers with extensive experience, specialized skills in hardware-software integration, and leadership roles can reach or exceed a $500,000 annual salary, especially in high-cost-of-living areas or within large technology companies. Achieving this level often requires advanced certifications, a strong track record, and expertise in areas like real-time systems or safety-critical applications.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior embedded software engineers with extensive experience, specialized skills in real-time systems, and advanced certifications can earn $300,000 or more annually, especially in high-demand industries like aerospace, defense, or semiconductor manufacturing. Compensation often includes bonuses, stock options, and other benefits, reflecting their expertise and critical role in product development.

What is the difference between Embedded Software Engineering vs Firmware Development?

AspectEmbedded Software EngineeringFirmware Development
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or related fields; knowledge of C/C++, RTOSSimilar degrees; often requires low-level programming skills and hardware knowledge
Work EnvironmentDevelops software for embedded systems in various industries like automotive, consumer electronicsFocuses on programming firmware directly on hardware devices like microcontrollers
Industry UsageCommon in automotive, aerospace, medical devices, consumer electronicsPrimarily used in hardware-centric industries, especially where direct hardware control is needed

Embedded Software Engineering and Firmware Development share overlapping skills and work environments, but embedded engineers typically develop higher-level software for embedded systems, while firmware developers focus on low-level hardware programming. Both roles are essential in creating reliable embedded products.

What are some common challenges faced by Embedded Software Engineers when working on cross-functional teams?

Embedded Software Engineers often collaborate closely with hardware engineers, product designers, and quality assurance teams. A common challenge is ensuring seamless integration between software and hardware components, as changes in hardware specifications can impact software functionality. Effective communication and early involvement in the hardware design process can help mitigate integration issues. Additionally, working within resource constraints and meeting strict real-time performance requirements can require creative problem-solving and adaptability.

Will AI replace embedded developers?

Embedded software engineers design and implement software for hardware devices, and AI is unlikely to fully replace them due to the need for specialized knowledge of hardware constraints, real-time systems, and safety requirements. Instead, AI tools can assist embedded developers by automating routine tasks and improving debugging, but human expertise remains essential for complex system design and integration.

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 strong proficiency in C/C++ programming, knowledge of embedded systems architecture, and a relevant degree in computer engineering or electrical engineering. Familiarity with real-time operating systems (RTOS), microcontrollers, and debugging tools like oscilloscopes and logic analyzers is typically required. Problem-solving ability, meticulous attention to detail, and effective teamwork are crucial soft skills for excelling in this role. These competencies are vital for developing reliable, efficient, and high-performance software that interacts closely with hardware in critical applications.

What is embedded software engineering?

Embedded software engineering is the process of designing, developing, and maintaining software that operates hardware devices with specific functions. Unlike general-purpose software, embedded software is tightly integrated with the hardware it controls, such as microcontrollers or processors in devices like cars, medical equipment, and home appliances. Embedded software engineers work with constraints such as limited memory, real-time processing, and power efficiency, requiring specialized knowledge of both software and hardware. Their work ensures that electronic devices perform reliably and efficiently for their intended purpose.
More about Embedded Software Engineering jobs
What cities are hiring for Embedded Software Engineering jobs? Cities with the most Embedded Software Engineering job openings:
What states have the most Embedded Software Engineering jobs? States with the most job openings for Embedded Software Engineering jobs include:
Embedded Software Engineering jobs near you
Infographic showing various Embedded Software Engineering job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 97% Full Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $153,383 per year, or $73.7 per hour.

Software Engineering Manager - Embedded Software

Zone 5 Technologies

San Luis Obispo, CA • On-site

$141K - $186K/yr

Other

Posted 27 days ago

Job description

We're looking for a people-first Software Engineering manager to oversee the development, integration, and maintenance of software systems for unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). This role involves leading a team of software engineers, collaborating with cross-functional teams (hardware, systems, and flight operations), and ensuring that all software complies with safety, performance, and regulatory requirements. The candidate will be responsible for the entire software development lifecycle, from requirements gathering through design, implementation, and validation. 

Software Engineering Manager - Embedded Software (UAV Systems) 

Responsibilities 

  • Team Leadership & Management: Build, mentor, and manage a high-performing software engineering team developing mission-critical embedded software for UAV flight control, communications, mission planning, and data processing. 
  • Technical Direction & Architecture Oversight: Provide technical leadership and architectural guidance for embedded software systems, ensuring scalability, safety, reliability, and regulatory compliance. 
  • Project & Execution Coordination: Coordinate with product and program managers to define project scope, allocate resources, set priorities, and manage software development schedules for flight control, mission management, and payload software programs. 
  • Systems Integration & Delivery: Collaborate with cross-functional engineering groups to ensure seamless integration of software with hardware, sensors, communication systems, and ground control systems. 
  • Quality Assurance & Safety: Oversee verification and validation activities, including unit testing, simulation, hardware-in-the-loop (HITL), and flight testing to ensure performance, robustness, and safety of delivered software. 
  • Compliance & Certification Leadership: Ensure development follows certification frameworks and safety standards such as DO-178C, ARP4754, and other UAV regulatory requirements. 
  • Innovation & Technology Strategy: Evaluate emerging technologies and drive adoption into product roadmaps, supporting advancement in autonomy, communications, and mission capabilities. 
  • Process Improvement: Help refine development best practices, coding standards, test methodologies, and documentation processes to support scalability and efficiency. 
  • Stakeholder Collaboration: Align software engineering goals with product, business, and operational requirements by coordinating closely with program and product management, systems engineering, hardware engineering, and flight operations teams. 
  • Documentation Oversight: Ensure creation and maintenance of high-quality documentation including design artifacts, test plans, certification documentation, and user manuals. 

Qualifications 

  • Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related field (Master's degree preferred). 
  • Minimum of 7+ years of software engineering experience, including at least 3 years in a leadership, management, or team-lead role. 
  • Strong background in embedded or aerospace software development, with experience in UAV systems strongly preferred. 
  • Familiarity with programming languages and modeling tools used in embedded and control systems (e.g., C, C++, C#, Python, MATLAB, Simulink). 
  • Understanding of real-time operating systems (RTOS), flight control systems, and communication protocols (e.g., STANAG-4586, ARINC-825, MAVLink). 
  • Experience with network protocols (UDP, TCP, DNS, DHCP) and working with networked embedded devices. 
  • Knowledge of software development lifecycle tools and workflow systems (Git, GitHub, JIRA, CI/CD). 
  • Demonstrated ability to lead diverse technical teams, communicate effectively, and drive results in a fast-paced engineering environment. 
  • Familiarity with safety-critical systems and certification standards such as DO-178C and ARP4754. 

Preferred Qualifications 

  • Experience with autonomy-enabling technologies such as machine learning, computer vision, or advanced sensor fusion. 
  • Knowledge of satellite or long-range communication technologies relevant to UAV platforms. 
  • Prior involvement in scaling engineering teams or multi-program software organizations. 

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