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Embedded Software Jobs in Philadelphia, PA (NOW HIRING)

Design and develop software for computer-based systems, including embedded and operating system-level components. * Apply object-oriented design principles and design patterns to create modular ...

Develops software and firmware source code in C/C++, Embedded C, and other languages. * Designs, develops, documents, tests, debugs, and implements embedded software and systems. * Technical ...

Software Engineer

Harleysville, PA · On-site

$100 - $125/hr

Develops software and firmware source code in C/C++, Embedded C, and other languages. * Designs, develops, documents, tests, debugs, and implements embedded software and systems. * Technical ...

Development experience in real-time embedded software, information assurance/encryption, secure communications, naval communications, or safety-critical systems. * Experience with DevOps tools ...

Development experience in real-time embedded software, information assurance/encryption, secure communications, naval communications, or safety-critical systems. * Experience with DevOps tools ...

Showing results 41-60

Embedded Software information

See Philadelphia, PA salary details

$70.6K

$154.8K

$175.6K

How much do embedded software jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for embedded software in Philadelphia, PA is $154,777.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $132,700.00 and $174,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is embedded software?

Embedded software is specialized computer software designed to operate hardware or devices that are not traditional computers, such as cars, medical devices, industrial machines, and consumer electronics. Unlike general-purpose software, embedded software is typically optimized for specific tasks and runs on microcontrollers or microprocessors within the device. It often operates with limited resources and must be reliable, efficient, and responsive to real-time events. Embedded software is crucial for the functionality and performance of countless everyday products.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an embedded software engineer?

To thrive as an Embedded Software Engineer, you need strong programming skills in C/C++, understanding of embedded systems architecture, and a relevant degree in computer engineering or a related field. Familiarity with real-time operating systems (RTOS), microcontroller development tools, and debugging hardware is typically required. Problem-solving ability, attention to detail, and effective teamwork are vital soft skills for this role. These competencies ensure reliable, efficient software development for embedded devices, which is crucial for product performance and safety.

What are some common challenges faced by embedded software engineers when integrating new hardware components into existing systems?

One common challenge Embedded Software Engineers often encounter is ensuring seamless compatibility between new hardware components and existing firmware or operating systems. This can involve troubleshooting timing issues, resolving driver conflicts, and optimizing resource usage within limited memory and processing constraints. Collaboration with hardware engineers is crucial to understand hardware specifications and limitations, and thorough testing is required to validate functionality and maintain system stability. These challenges offer valuable opportunities to develop problem-solving skills and deepen cross-disciplinary technical knowledge.

What is the difference between Embedded Software vs Firmware Developer?

AspectEmbedded SoftwareFirmware Developer
CredentialsBachelor's in Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or related fieldsSimilar credentials, often with specialized knowledge in hardware
Work EnvironmentDevelops software for embedded systems in devices like appliances, automotive, medical devicesCreates low-level code directly interacting with hardware, often in similar environments
Industry UsageUsed across automotive, consumer electronics, industrial automationPrimarily in consumer electronics, IoT devices, and hardware-focused industries
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding roles in embedded systems developmentFocusing on low-level hardware interaction and firmware specifics

Embedded Software and Firmware Developer roles overlap significantly, both requiring knowledge of hardware and programming. Embedded Software typically involves developing higher-level code for embedded systems, while Firmware Developers focus on low-level code that directly interacts with hardware components. Both roles are essential in creating reliable embedded products across various industries.

Is embedded software a good career?

Embedded software engineering is a stable and growing field that involves developing software for hardware devices such as appliances, automotive systems, and medical equipment. It requires skills in programming languages like C and C++, knowledge of hardware interfaces, and often involves working with real-time operating systems. The demand for embedded software professionals is expected to remain strong due to the increasing integration of electronics in various industries.

What are the most commonly searched types of Embedded Software jobs in Philadelphia, PA?

The most popular types of Embedded Software jobs in Philadelphia, PA are:

Infographic showing various Embedded Software job openings in Philadelphia, PA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $154,777 per year, or $74.4 per hour.

Software Engineer

Actalent

Moorestown, NJ

$40 - $70/hr

Contractor

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 13 days ago


Job description

Job Title: Software Engineer ($5,000 sign on bonus)

Job Description

This role focuses on designing, developing, troubleshooting, and analyzing software programs for computer-based systems within a complex defense environment. You will perform system modeling, simulation, and analysis while contributing to the design and development of compilers, assemblers, utility programs, and operating systems. You will also provide input for documentation of new and existing software, ensuring that systems meet rigorous technical and quality standards.

Responsibilities

  • Design and develop software for computer-based systems, including embedded and operating system-level components.
  • Apply object-oriented design principles and design patterns to create modular, maintainable, and extensible software solutions.
  • Perform system modeling, simulation, and analysis to validate software behavior and system performance.
  • Design and implement software components, subsystems, and integrations in a Linux and UNIX-based environment.
  • Conduct software design implementation, subsystem integration, system integration, and comprehensive testing activities.
  • Contribute to the creation and maintenance of documentation for new and existing software programs.
  • Develop and maintain scripts for Solaris and other UNIX variants to support build, integration, and test activities.
  • Use Integrated Development Environments (IDEs) such as Eclipse to write, debug, and maintain software code.
  • Apply UML syntax to model software architecture, design, and behavior.
  • Utilize xUnit frameworks, including JUnit and CppUnitLite, to develop and execute automated unit tests.
  • Follow established CMMI Level 5 life cycle processes and procedures throughout the software development life cycle.

Essential Skills

  • Experience developing software in C++ or Java in a Linux operating system environment.
  • Hands-on experience with software design, design implementation, subsystem integration, system integration, and testing.
  • Experience participating in software requirements reviews, preliminary design reviews, critical design reviews, integration readiness reviews, and software acceptance reviews.
  • Knowledge of Integrated Development Environments (IDEs) such as Eclipse or similar tools.
  • Experience with embedded software development.
  • Strong proficiency in object-oriented programming and object-oriented design.
  • Familiarity with UML syntax and its use in modeling software systems.
  • Experience with Windows, Solaris, and Linux operating environments.
  • Experience developing scripts for Solaris and other UNIX variants.
  • Experience with object-oriented design and development, including the use of design patterns to enable software insulation techniques and plugin architectures.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

  • Experience with Python and Bash scripting.
  • Proficiency with MS Office tools for documentation and communication.
  • Experience working with integrated development environments such as Eclipse.
  • Experience in embedded programming and software engineering for defense or mission-critical systems.
  • Experience working in UNIX-based environments, including Linux and Solaris.
  • Exposure to large, long-lived defense programs and complex system-of-systems environments.
  • Familiarity with the xUnit framework, especially JUnit and CppUnitLite.
  • Experience working within CMMI Level 5 life cycle processes and procedures.

Work Environment

  • You will work on a long-term defense program supporting a highly stable and established missile defense system that has been in operation for over four decades and is used by multiple allied navies worldwide. The role operates within a structured, process-driven environment that follows CMMI Level 5 life cycle standards, emphasizing quality, consistency, and rigorous review practices. You will primarily work with Linux, Solaris, and other UNIX variants, using technologies such as C++, Java, embedded software tools, UML, xUnit frameworks, and IDEs like Eclipse. The schedule follows a 9/80 work pattern, providing every other Friday off and offering flexibility in paid time off. The facility environment supports complex software and systems engineering activities for government defense work, providing a stable and professional setting focused on long-term program support.Support long-term defense programs by delivering reliable, maintainable software that meets stringent performance and quality requirements.E
Job Type & Location

This is a Contract position based out of Moorestown, NJ.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $40.00 - $70.00/hr.

Individual compensation offered for this position within this range will depend on many factors, including qualifications, skills, relevant experience, job knowledge, geographic location, internal equity, and other pertinent job-related factors.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: • Medical, dental & vision • Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital • 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available • Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) • Short and long-term disability • Health Spending Account (HSA) • Transportation benefits • Employee Assistance Program • Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in Moorestown,NJ.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Sep 18, 2026.

About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 20,000 consultants and 5,000 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500. We are proud to be an Engineering News-Record (ENR) Top 500 Design Firm for our engineering design services and a ClearlyRated Best of Staffing® winner for both client and talent service.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications withoutregard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability,sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protectedby law.

If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification oradjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability,please email actalentaccommodation@actalentservices.com for other accommodation options.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance:Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in thecity and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicantswith arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector:It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as acondition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this lawshall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI):We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process,including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applicationsand qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, youacknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.


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About Actalent

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Actalent connects passion with purpose. Our scalable talent solutions and services capabilities drive value and results and provide the expertise to help our customers achieve more. Every day, our experts around the globe are making an impact. We're supporting critical initiatives in engineering and sciences that advance how companies serve the world. Actalent promotes consultant care and engagement through experiences that enable continuous development. Our people are the difference. Actalent is an operating company of Allegis Group, the global leader in talent solutions.

Industry

Business management consulting

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Hanover, MD, US

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