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Embedded System Developer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

... embedded system • Experience with software project management, familiar with agile methodology • Bachelor in Automotive/Embedded Software/Mechanical Engineering/Systems Engineering/Computer ...

Collaborate with software and embedded engineers to create HIL test fixtures involving relays, sensors, Ethernet switches, and RS-232/RS-485 serial interfaces * Remotely administer Linux systems

Collaborate with cross-functional teams to define system specifications and requirements. * Lead ... Leverage DevOps practices to streamline and automate processes, enhance software quality, and ...

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Embedded System Developer information

See California salary details

$138.2K

$211.2K

$308.9K

How much do embedded system developer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for embedded system developer in California is $211,197.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $154,400.00 and $284,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an embedded system developer?

Embedded system developers are engineers who design, program, and maintain specialized computing systems that are part of larger devices, such as cars, medical equipment, home appliances, and industrial machines. These professionals work with both hardware and software to ensure that the embedded systems are efficient, reliable, and meet specific requirements. Their work often involves programming microcontrollers, integrating sensors and actuators, and optimizing resource-constrained environments. Embedded system developers play a crucial role in creating the technology behind many everyday products.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an embedded system developer?

To thrive as an Embedded System Developer, you need a solid background in computer science or electrical engineering, with expertise in C/C++ programming, microcontrollers, and real-time operating systems. Familiarity with hardware debugging tools, integrated development environments (IDEs), and version control systems like Git is typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication help developers innovate and collaborate in cross-functional teams. These competencies are critical for designing reliable, efficient embedded solutions that power modern devices across industries.

What are some common challenges faced by embedded system developers when working on cross-functional teams?

Embedded System Developers often collaborate with hardware engineers, software developers, and product managers. A common challenge is ensuring seamless integration between hardware and software components, as timing and resource constraints can lead to unexpected issues. Clear communication and thorough documentation are crucial for aligning specifications and troubleshooting problems that span both domains. Developers also need to stay adaptable, as project requirements may evolve rapidly based on feedback from other teams or testing results.

What is the difference between Embedded System Developer vs Firmware Engineer?

AspectEmbedded System DeveloperFirmware Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Electrical, Computer Engineering, or related fields; certifications like ARM or IoT certifications are commonBachelor's in Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or related; similar certifications often preferred
Work EnvironmentDesigning and developing embedded hardware-software systems, often in manufacturing or IoT industriesWriting low-level firmware for microcontrollers and embedded devices, typically in consumer electronics or automotive sectors
Employer & Industry UsageTech companies, automotive, industrial automation, IoT firmsConsumer electronics, automotive, medical devices, and embedded hardware manufacturers

Both roles involve working with embedded hardware and software, often requiring similar educational backgrounds and certifications. However, Embedded System Developers focus on designing entire embedded systems, while Firmware Engineers specialize in writing low-level code that runs directly on microcontrollers. The roles are complementary and often overlap in industry applications.

Is there a high job demand for embedded system developers?

Embedded system developers are in high demand across industries such as automotive, healthcare, and consumer electronics due to the increasing integration of embedded devices. Skills in C/C++, real-time operating systems, and hardware design are particularly sought after, and job growth is expected to continue as embedded technology advances.
Infographic showing various Embedded System Developer job openings in California as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $211,197 per year, or $101.5 per hour.

System Developer

Santa Clara, CA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 23 days ago


Job description

Job Summary:
Future Mobility Corporation is leading the next-generation technology innovation and integration for the global auto industry. They are seeking a talented System Developer to connect the vehicle’s back-end with the User Interface, design and maintain backend software, and collaborate with a cross-disciplinary team.
Responsibilities:
• Responsible for the underlying software layers, connecting the vehicle’s back-end with the User Interface.
• Design, implement and maintain the backend software and frameworks.
• Develop and maintain inter-process-communication.
• Develop rapid prototypes of novel interaction concepts.
• Debug and optimize performance of production code.
• Write documentation and test for code.
• Collaborate with cross-disciplinary team of designers, hardware engineers and software engineers to design solutions.
Qualifications:
Required:
• Software development experience in C++/C#
• Strong record of innovation demonstrated through patents, papers or products
• Proven ability to articulate and advocate a vision for technology direction with customers and internal development teams
• Experience developing product in UNIX environment and embedded system
• Experience with software project management, familiar with agile methodology
• Bachelor in Automotive/Embedded Software/Mechanical Engineering/Systems Engineering/Computer Science with 5+ years of work experience
• Strong presentation skills and excellent interpersonal skills; fun, outgoing and easy to work with
• Self-starter able to operate with minimal supervision to achieve objectives
Preferred:
• Desired experience: Automotive
Company:
BYTON operates as an electric vehicle company that designs cars as a fully connected smart device on wheels. Founded in 2016, the company is headquartered in Nanjing, CHN, with a team of 1001-5000 employees. The company is currently Late Stage.