ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Embedded Software Jobs in Santa Cruz, CA (NOW HIRING)

Momentus Space LLC

Embedded Software Engineer

San Jose, CA · On-site

$140K - $175K/yr

JOB SUMMARY We are seeking an Embedded Software Engineer to assist with development avionics flight software. The ideal candidate should be accustomed to working in a fast-paced environment and ...

Momentus Space LLC

Embedded Software Engineer

San Jose, CA · On-site

$140K - $175K/yr

JOB SUMMARY We are seeking an Embedded Software Engineer to assist with development avionics flight software. The ideal candidate should be accustomed to working in a fast-paced environment and ...

Align Technology

Embedded Software Engineer

San Jose, CA

$131K - $180K/yr

Description About this opportunity As an Embedded Software Engineer, you will play a key role in defining and developing next-generation products and technologies. You will lead firmware architecture ...

Raytheon

Senior Embedded Software Engineer

San Jose, CA

$145K - $190K/yr

Our Senior Embedded Software Engineer is a technical position that works in an Integrated Product Team (IPT) environment to architect, design, implement, test, debug, and deploy Software for Firmware ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsEmbedded Software JobsEmbedded Software Jobs in Santa Cruz, CA

Embedded Software information

See Santa Cruz, CA salary details

$80.8K

$177.1K

$200.9K

How much do embedded software jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for embedded software in Santa Cruz, CA is $177,106.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $151,800.00 and $199,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 software in everyday devices.

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 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 are the most commonly searched types of Embedded Software jobs in Santa Cruz, CA? The most popular types of Embedded Software jobs in Santa Cruz, CA are:
What are popular job titles related to Embedded Software jobs in Santa Cruz, CA? For Embedded Software jobs in Santa Cruz, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Embedded Software jobs in Santa Cruz, CA look for? The top searched job categories for Embedded Software jobs in Santa Cruz, CA are:
What cities near Santa Cruz, CA are hiring for Embedded Software jobs? Cities near Santa Cruz, CA with the most Embedded Software job openings:
Embedded Software jobs near you
Infographic showing various Embedded Software job openings in Santa Cruz, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 84% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $177,106 per year, or $85.1 per hour.

Embedded Software Engineer

Momentus Space LLC

San Jose, CA • On-site

$140K - $175K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 18 days ago

Job description

OUR COMPANY

As an early mover in the in-space transportation and infrastructure services, Momentus is at the forefront of the commercialization of space. With an experienced team of aerospace, propulsion, and robotics engineers, Momentus has developed a cost-effective and energy-efficient in-space transport system. 

OUR PEOPLE

Daring problems require daring solutions.  We boldly charge into uncharted territory knowing that no matter the outcome we will benefit from the journey and move closer to our goals no matter what. Our teams know that working at Momentus means more than building innovative technology, it means creating entirely new markets in the space economy. We are level-headed, business-minded strategic thinkers intent on providing immediate value to our customers today while simultaneously preparing for the vast possibilities of the future. If this sounds like you, we should talk.

JOB SUMMARY

We are seeking an Embedded Software Engineer to assist with development avionics flight software.  The ideal candidate should be accustomed to working in a fast-paced environment and enjoys working on projects ranging from low-level drivers to large multi-faceted software systems.  

Key Responsibilities: 

  • Develop embedded software drivers for sensors, actuators and other avionics components 
  • Develop embedded software applications for satellite subsystems 
  • Validate and test vendor provided avionics systems 
  • Execute integrated testing of avionics components 
  • Support on-orbit anomaly resolution activities 

Required Skills and Experience: 

  • Extensive knowledge of Python, C++, C 
  • Experience with Linux shell scripting 
  • Experience with Microcontroller software development 
  • Ability to work independently 
  • Excellent technical communications skills 
  • Good written and verbal communication skills 

Preferred Skills and Experience: 

  • Experience using laboratory tools such as oscilloscopes, multimeters, network analyzers, and power supplies 
  • Experience with software development for embedded systems in aerospace, automotive, naval, oil & gas, and/or consumer markets 
  • Knowledge of digital communication interfaces (CAN, I2C, SPI, etc) 
  • Familiar with FPGA development in Verilog 
  • Familiar with embedded Linux design, compilation, and management 
  • Previous experience working on DoD and other USG development and deployment programs 
  • Ability to hold and maintain a USG Security Clearance 

Education & Work Experience: 

  • BS degree in Electrical Engineering, or a closely related discipline 
  • 5+ years relevant experience. 

Compensation: 

Annual Base Salary Range: $140,000 - $175,000/per year

Base pay is one part of our total compensation package (base+bonus+equity) and is determined within a range. Your actual base salary will be determined on job-related knowledge and skills, education, and experience.  Our benefit plans include medical, dental, and vision insurance, 401k retirement plan, short and long term disability and life insurance. We also offer flexible PTO, along with 11 paid holidays, sick time and paid parental leave.

This is a full-time position in San Jose, California. This position requires access to export-controlled commodities, technical data, technology, software, and services. U.S. citizenship, U.S. legal permanent resident status, or protected person status under 8 U.S.C. A 1324b(a)(3) is required. 

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.

To all recruitment agencies: Momentus does not accept agency resumes. Please do not forward resumes to our employees or any company email. Momentus will not be responsible for any fees related to unsolicited resumes.  

Apply