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Embedded Software Engineering Jobs in San Jose, CA

Embedded Software Engineer (Automated Test & Fleet Systems) Location: Foster City, CA (100% In ... Bachelor's or Master's degree in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or a related technical ...

Engineer: Embedded Audio Software

San Jose, CA · On-site

$154K - $202K/yr

Leverage AI-assisted engineering tools (such as Claude, GitHub Copilot, ChatGPT, and similar coding agents) to accelerate software development, debugging, test generation, documentation, and code ...

Embedded Software Engineer

Redwood City, CA · On-site

$161K - $211K/yr

As part of our quickly growing engineering team, you will play a critical role in the design of the ... Embedded software debugging experience including clock-level issues, bridges, delays, interrupts ...

As part of our quickly growing engineering team, you will play a critical role in the design of the ... Embedded software debugging experience including clock-level issues, bridges, delays, interrupts ...

Embedded Software Engineer

Redwood City, CA · On-site

$161K - $211K/yr

As part of our quickly growing engineering team, you will play a critical role in the design of the ... Embedded software debugging experience including clock-level issues, bridges, delays, interrupts ...

Embedded Software Engineer

San Jose, CA · On-site

$131K - $180K/yr

Embedded Software Engineer Department: Research & Development Employment Type: Full Time Location ... engineering excellence, innovation, and delivering exceptional user experiences. The ideal ...

Embedded Software Engineer || W2

Foster City, CA · On-site

$153K - $201K/yr

Embedded Software Engineer Onsite in Foster City, CA | 5 days in office W2 ,1099 only The Autonomy ... Engineering, or related field, with 4+ years of relevant industry experience • Strong C ...

Embedded Software Engineer

Milpitas, CA

$153K - $201K/yr

You will drive technical decisions, raise the bar on engineering quality, and collaborate closely with cross-functional teams to deliver reliable, production-grade embedded software. Job ...

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Embedded Software Engineering information

See San Jose, CA salary details

$82K

$179.8K

$203.9K

How much do embedded software engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for embedded software engineering in San Jose, CA is $179,764.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $154,100.00 and $202,800.00 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.

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. Skills in C, C++, and real-time operating systems are particularly valuable, and job opportunities are expected to increase as embedded systems become more integrated into daily life.

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.

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.
What cities near San Jose, CA are hiring for Embedded Software Engineering jobs? Cities near San Jose, CA with the most Embedded Software Engineering job openings:
Infographic showing various Embedded Software Engineering job openings in San Jose, CA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $179,476 per year, or $86.3 per hour.

Embedded Software Engineer

Next Step Systems

Santa Clara, CA • On-site

$154K - $203K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 4 days ago


Job description

Embedded Software Engineer, Santa Clara, CA
We are seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Embedded Software Engineer to join a dynamic team. The ideal Embedded Software Engineer will possess a solid foundation in software development, familiarity with EtherCAT (ECAT) systems, and fluency in both Japanese and English. This role will involve supporting development projects relates to Mechanical Engineering and Electrical Engineering, and translate/interpret for seamless communication among customers, headquarters in Japan in daily work and meetings. This position is 100% onsite and not open for remote.
Embedded Software Engineer Responsibilities:
- Assist in the design, implementation, and maintenance of ECAT-based software systems.
- Debug and troubleshoot ECAT-related issues in real-time systems.
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including Japanese-speaking stakeholders, to gather requirements and provide technical updates.
- Develop and maintain technical documentation in both Japanese and English.
- Ensure the compatibility and performance of ECAT communication protocols in various applications.
- Support system integration and testing activities as required.
Embedded Software Engineer Qualifications:
- Bachelor's degree in computer science, Software Engineering, or a related field.
- Fluent in Japanese Language Proficiency Test (JLPT N2 or above preferred) and English with excellent verbal and written communication skills.
- Programming skills in C, C++, or a similar language.
- Experienced in embedded software development.
- Skilled in debugging using tools such as JTAG.
- Capable of creating software specifications and design documents.
- Able to read basic digital and analog circuit diagrams (and communicate effectively with customers regarding them).
- Strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail.
Embedded Software Engineer Preferred Qualifications:
- Experience in development using any fieldbus technology.
- Basic understanding of EtherCAT (ECAT) protocols and real-time systems.
- Familiarity with Real-Time Operating Systems (RTOS) and industrial automation.
- Ability to create simple PC applications for verification and evaluation purposes.
- Knowledge of communication protocols such as TCP/IP or CAN.
- Previous experience in a bilingual technical role.
Benefits include medical insurance, retirement plan, PTO, etc.
Keywords: San Clara CA Jobs, Embedded Software Engineer, C/C++, Fieldbus Technology, JTAG, ECAT, EtherCAT, Real-Time Operating Systems, RTOS, TCP/IP, CAN, Japanese Language Proficiency Test, JLPT N2, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Software Developer, Programmer Analyst, Programming, California Recruiters, Information Technology Jobs, IT Jobs, California Recruiting
Looking to hire for similar positions in Santa Clara, CA or in other cities? Our IT recruiting agencies and staffing companies can help.
We help companies that are looking to hire Embedded Software Engineers for jobs in Santa Clara, California and in other cities too. Please contact our IT recruiting agencies and IT staffing companies today! Phone 630-428-0600 ext. 11 or email us at jobs@nextstepsystems.com. Click here to submit your resume for this job and others.
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