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Embedded System Developer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Support system integration and verification across avionics, radios, and other spacecraft ... Strong proficiency in embedded C and/or Rust programming. * Experience working with bare-metal ...

Embedded Software Engineer

Hawthorne, CA ยท On-site

$133.20K - $175.20K/yr

Software Engineering Employment Type: Full Time Location: Hawthorne, California Reporting To ... Write and test software for multiple embedded system platforms ranging from microcontrollers to ...

Software Engineering Employment Type: Full Time Location: Hawthorne, California Reporting To ... Write and test software for multiple embedded system platforms ranging from microcontrollers to ...

Embedded Platform Engineer

Long Beach, CA

$138.30K - $181.90K/yr

Long Beach, CA We are seeking a skilled Embedded Software Engineer to design and implement ISO 26262-compliant software for distributed embedded systems with multiple microcontrollers/ECU's. In this ...

Embedded Software Engineer

Glendale, CA

$139.40K - $183.30K/yr

Embedded Software Engineer, Intelligence Systems Reston, Virginia, United States A cutting-edge defense technology company is transforming U.S. and allied military capabilities with advanced ...

Senior Embedded Systems Engineer

San Diego, CA ยท On-site

$131.70K - $172.50K/yr

You contribute across the full system development lifecycle, including requirements analysis ... embedded systems and firmware. * Expertise in programming languages such as C, C++ * Strong ...

Embedded Software Engineer

San Francisco, CA ยท Hybrid

$154.90K - $203.80K/yr

Embedded Software Engineer Deepnight is creating the best low light camera in the world by ... Debug and troubleshoot complex embedded system issues across hardware and software. * Document ...

Software Engineer III - Embedded

Irvine, CA

$141.20K - $185.70K/yr

Software Engineer III - Embedded Location: 9801 Muirlands Boulevard Irvine, CA 92618 Duration: 6 ... Designs and develops embedded software for complex defense and aerospace systems, including ...

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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 Jun 2, 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 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.

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 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.

Embedded Systems Engineer II

Scientific Drilling Inc.

Paso Robles, CA โ€ข On-site

$85K - $125K/yr

Full-time

Posted 8 days ago


Job description

Scientific Drilling is looking for a Embedded Systems Engineer II to join our Applied Technologies Center in Paso Robles, CA. The ideal candidate will have a strong understanding of embedded systems hardware and software, as well as experience with a variety of embedded development tools and technologies.

Scientific Drilling is an independent directional drilling and wellbore navigation, surveying and logging service company serving customers worldwide. We are motivated by crafting innovative and elegant solutions to technically challenging problems.

Nestled between San Francisco and Los Angeles, the California Central Coast is described as the happiest place on earth. The area features 200+ wineries, fresh air, miles of beautiful beaches, and small-town appeal.

Our Embedded Systems Engineer position will work in our Research and Development Department. The Embedded Systems Engineer is expected to perform the essential duties listed below. Candidates must have authorization to work in the United States.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

  • Design, implement and maintain firmware running on all embedded products.
  • Design, code, and debug multi-threaded real-time firmware.
  • Work with Engineering partners to select controllers, power management systems, and review schematics.
  • Evaluate, select and apply standard engineering techniques, procedures and criteria, using judgment in making adaptations and modifications.
  • Investigate new technologies for cutting-edge product development.
  • Implement test strategies for all components and products.
  • Collaborate with hardware and software engineers, Product Line Management and Operations Support teams, and Test team for product enhancement and troubleshooting.
  • Document work procedures and results.
  • Understand hardware/software interactions.
  • Collaborate with engineers, project managers, customers, vendors or other business partners on engineering projects.
  • Adhere to and improve safety standards.
  • Evaluate failed system scenarios and determine root-cause in conformance with the Quality Management System (QMS).
  • Travel domestically or internationally may be required, up to 25%.
  • Manage workstation and practice good housekeeping techniques.
  • Pursue every job with drive and determination.
  • Use logic to solve problems with effective solutions.
  • Perform other relevant duties as assigned by the needs of the business.

Job Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

  • Proven skills with embedded systems development and test tools such as JTAG, logic analyzers, and
  • Proven skills with version control and build/make systems
  • Proven skills with ARM based or equivalent embedded controller applications, peripherals and support circuitry.
  • Proven skills with the practical application of engineering science and technology including applying principles, techniques, procedures, and equipment to the design and production.
  • Proficiency in low power, design and microprocessor interfacing.
  • Proficiency with LWIP or similar Ethernet stack.
  • Proven skills with electronic equipment and computer hardware and software.
  • Knowledge of low power design and microprocessor interfacing.
  • Ability to work in fast paced and results driven environment.
  • Very strong attention to detail and ability to multitask.
  • Good organizational and communication skills.
  • Ability to present oneself with professional appearance and behavior in accordance with ATC dress code and SDI Code of Conduct.
  • Ability to meet all SDI/ATC safety requirements.
  • Ability to understand and follow instructions.
  • Ability to read, communicate, and understand the English language.
  • Ability to communicate effectively with managers and peers, both written and verbally.
  • Adhere to established Company procedures and policies, work schedule, attendance standards and is punctual to work and meetings.
  • Contribute to team effort by accomplishing related results.
  • Ability to be a team player/builder.
  • Must be tactful and able to resolve disputes between departments and settle personnel
  • Possess the ability to be interactive with management staff and co-workers.

Education, Experience, Certification, and training

  • Bachelor's degree in computer science, Computer Engineering or Electronic Engineering.
  • 2-10 years of experience in engineering.
  • Experience using embedded software development tools.
  • Proficiency in C/C++ programming and assembly
  • Experience with microcontrollers including ARM and 8051, or equivalent.
  • Hardware debugging experience using JTAG, oscilloscopes, and/or logic analyzers.
  • Experience implementing firmware in high temp (150C+) and high vibration environments a plus.
  • Experience using real-time operating systems a plus.

This position requires you to be onsite at our Paso Robles office. Remote work is not available for this role. We appreciate your understanding and look forward to discussing how you can contribute to our team in person.

This job description describes the general duties and responsibilities, and physical requirements associated with the position; it is not an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities, or skills required for the position.

The general duties and responsibilities and physical requirements associated with the position are subject to modification in order to reasonably accommodate individuals with disabilities. Some physical requirements may exclude individuals who pose a threat or risk to the health or safety to themselves or others.

This job description neither states nor implies that the listed general duties and responsibilities and physical requirements associated with the position are the only tasks expected of an employee. An employee is also required to follow any other job-related instructions and perform any other job-related tasks requested by their supervisor and not in violation of any applicable laws, regulations, or rules.

Requirements are representative of minimum levels of knowledge, skills, and abilities. To perform this job successfully, an employee must possess the abilities and aptitudes to perform each duty, responsibility, and physical requirement proficiently.

Continued employment remains on an "at-will" basis.