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Embedded System Developer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Toyon

Embedded Systems Engineer

Goleta, CA · On-site

$100K - $200K/yr

Conduct unit testing, integration testing, and system-level testing of embedded software * Participate in technical reviews and collaborate with other engineers to ensure overall system integration

Sesame

Embedded Engineer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$175K - $280K/yr

We are seeking an Embedded-system Engineer who is comfortable working across Linux-based, RTOS-based, and bare-metal MCU applications to drive fast and efficient firmware development. You will have ...

Toyon

Senior Embedded Systems Engineer

Goleta, CA · On-site

$145K - $235K/yr

Conduct unit testing, integration testing, and system-level testing of embedded software * Participate in technical reviews and collaborate with other engineers to ensure overall system integration

Motorola

Embedded Software Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · Hybrid

$48.08 - $67.31/hr

Linux system customization and scripting. REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS * Bachelor of Science degree in ... or relevant engineering fields. * 3 years of relevant embedded system software development ...

Omega Solutions

Embedded Developer

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

Embedded Developer Location: Hanover MD Employment Type: Full time US Citizen only (need to able to ... At General Dynamics Mission Systems, you'll be part of the team that helps heroes make a true ...

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All JobsEmbedded System Developer JobsEmbedded System Developer Jobs in California

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 Jun 24, 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 do embedded systems developers do?

Embedded systems developers design, develop, and test software for specialized hardware devices such as medical equipment, automotive systems, and consumer electronics. They work with programming languages like C and C++, and often use tools like microcontrollers, real-time operating systems, and debugging hardware. Their work involves optimizing code for performance, power consumption, and reliability within embedded environments.

What are embedded system developers?

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 engineers make $500,000?

Highly experienced engineers in specialized fields such as software engineering, data science, or executive roles in technology companies can earn $500,000 or more annually. These positions often require advanced skills, certifications, and leadership responsibilities, typically found in senior or executive-level roles within large organizations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Embedded System Developer, and why are they important?

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.

Is Python or C++ better for embedded systems?

Embedded system developers typically prefer C++ for its efficiency, low-level hardware access, and real-time performance, which are critical in resource-constrained environments. Python is used in embedded systems for rapid development and prototyping, especially with microcontrollers like Raspberry Pi, but it generally offers less performance and higher resource usage than C++. The choice depends on project requirements, hardware constraints, and developer expertise.

Will AI replace embedded programmers?

Embedded system developers design and implement software for hardware devices, and while AI can automate certain coding tasks and optimize processes, it is unlikely to fully replace skilled programmers due to the need for specialized knowledge of hardware, real-time constraints, and system integration. AI tools can assist in development but require human oversight and expertise to ensure safety and functionality.

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.

What are popular job titles related to Embedded System Developer jobs in California? For Embedded System Developer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Embedded System Developer jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Embedded System Developer jobs in California are:
Embedded System Developer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Embedded System Developer job openings in California as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $211,197 per year, or $101.5 per hour.
Sr Embedded Systems Engineer I

Sr Embedded Systems Engineer I

Element Biosciences

San Diego, CA • On-site

Other

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted yesterday

Job description

At Element Biosciences, we are passionate about our mission to empower the scientific community with more freedom and flexibility to accelerate our collective impact on humanity. We have built a highly efficient product-driven organization where employees can learn, grow, and thrive in a challenging but encouraging environment. We are committed to scientific integrity, collegiality, honesty, objectivity, and openness.

We are seeking a Senior Embedded Systems Engineer who will play a pivotal role in the development of our high-performance instrument platform. This is an incredible opportunity for someone who is passionate about embedded system development. We are looking for candidates with a solid background in embedded system development and testing. This role will report to Senior Director of Embedded Systems and will be a San Diego based role.

If you possess the following and want to make a meaningful impact, we invite you to explore this role.

Essential Functions and Responsibilities:

  • Perform requirements gathering and system specification writing activities for embedded platform and applications
  • Design, implement and validate embedded Linux application software with real-time communication and processing functionalities according to requirements of system specs
  • Integrate Linux Kernel, BSP, bootloader, hardware drivers for required functionality
  • Conduct system bring-up activities. Lead SW/FW functionality debugging in system
  • Conduct performance profiling on data processing tasks in embedded SoCs
  • Communicate, collaborate with embedded system and software developers on validation and debugging activities.

Education and Experience:

  • Minimum bachelor's degree in electrical engineering, computer engineering or computer sciences
  • At least 3 years industry experience in embedded firmware or embedded system development
  • Strong Hands-on experience with embedded system prototype bring-up
  • Practical experience on embedded Linux system configuration, memory management and driver integration
  • Proficient in coding with C and C++; have practical experience with corresponding debugging tools / methodology
  • Experience with the development and execution of automated tests and performance profiler
  • Good knowledge of electronic components including FPGA, embedded processors/SoCs is a plus
  • Experience in GPU or NPU kernel FW development is a plus
  • Strong problem solving and debugging skills: analyze and investigate test failures, errors, build issues, and be able to accurately drive issues to completion

Physical Requirements: 

  • Ability to lift up to 20 pounds

Location:

  • San Diego - onsite

Travel: 

  • Up to 5% - or as opportunity arises

Job Type:

  • Full-time, Exempt

Base Compensation Pay Range:

  • $XX- $XX


 

In addition to base compensation noted above, you will be eligible for stock options, discretionary annual bonus, no cost health insurance plans, 401k with company match, and flexible paid time off. 

Please note: Base compensation will depend on multiple factors, including geographic location, qualifications, and experience. 

We foster an environment such that all people are afforded the freedom to pursue their passions without regard to race, color, religion, national or ethnic origin, gender (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, disability, veteran status or any other characteristics protected by law.

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