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Embedded System Engineer Intern Jobs in Santa Barbara, CA

Alcon

Principal FPGA Image Pipeline Engineer

Goleta, CA · On-site

$150K - $183K/yr

Programming embedded processors using C language. * Organize weekly stand-up meeting and be the ... Testing embedded system through UART/RS-232, J-tag debugger, LEDs, oscilloscope, logic analyzer ...

Alcon

Principal FPGA Engineer II

Goleta, CA · On-site

$149K - $183K/yr

As a Principal, FPGA Engineer II supporting Research & Development of Alcon's Surgical ... Testing embedded system through UART/RS-232, J-tag debugger, LEDs, oscilloscope, logic analyzer ...

Alcon

Principal FPGA Image Pipeline Engineer

Goleta, CA · On-site

$149K - $183K/yr

Programming embedded processors using C language. * Organize weekly stand-up meeting and be the ... Testing embedded system through UART/RS-232, J-tag debugger, LEDs, oscilloscope, logic analyzer ...

Toyon

Electrical Engineer

Goleta, CA · On-site

$115K - $200K/yr

Design and build mixed-signal and embedded system circuits and custom PCBAs * Drive hardware ... Troubleshoot and resolve complex or unusual engineering challenges under tight timelines

Toyon

Flight Software C++ Engineer

Goleta, CA · On-site

$130K - $220K/yr

Design, develop, and test flight software components in C++ for embedded systems * Develop and ... Collaborate closely with cross-functional teams of engineers, scientists, and project managers to ...

Magna

Intern - Infrared Imaging & Algorithms

Goleta, CA · On-site

$26 - $38/hr

As part of the Core Thermal Sensing team, the student intern will assist the systems and hardware engineering teams in the development and testing of next generation Thermal Sensing cameras related ...

Toyon

Senior Electrical Engineer

Goleta, CA · On-site

$140K - $230K/yr

Design and build mixed-signal and embedded system circuits and custom PCBAs * Drive hardware ... Troubleshoot and resolve complex or unusual engineering challenges under tight timelines

Magna

Intern - Infrared Imaging & Algorithms

Goleta, CA · On-site

$26 - $38/hr

As part of the Core Thermal Sensing team, the student intern will assist the systems and hardware engineering teams in the development and testing of next generation Thermal Sensing cameras related ...

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All JobsEmbedded System Engineer Intern JobsEmbedded System Engineer Intern Jobs in Santa Barbara, CA

Embedded System Engineer Intern information

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How much do embedded system engineer intern jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for embedded system engineer intern in Santa Barbara, CA is $28.28, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.98 and $32.12 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an embedded system engineer intern?

Embedded System Engineer Interns are students or recent graduates who assist in designing, developing, and testing embedded systems under the supervision of experienced engineers. These systems typically combine hardware and software to perform dedicated functions within larger electronic devices such as cars, medical equipment, or consumer electronics. Interns often help with tasks like programming microcontrollers, troubleshooting hardware, and collaborating with cross-functional teams. The position provides hands-on experience and exposure to the development cycle of embedded products, preparing interns for a full-time engineering role.

What types of projects and daily tasks can an embedded system engineer intern expect to work on?

As an Embedded System Engineer Intern, you can expect to be involved in a variety of hands-on projects such as developing and testing firmware for microcontrollers, troubleshooting hardware-software integration issues, and assisting with the design of embedded system prototypes. Daily tasks often include writing and debugging code in languages like C or C++, participating in team meetings to discuss project progress, and collaborating closely with hardware engineers and senior embedded developers. This role offers valuable exposure to real-world product development cycles and provides opportunities to learn industry-standard tools and methodologies.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an embedded system engineer intern, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Embedded System Engineer Intern, you generally need a background in electrical engineering or computer science with core skills in C/C++ programming, microcontroller architectures, and basic circuit design. Familiarity with tools such as embedded IDEs (e.g., Keil, MPLAB), oscilloscopes, and version control systems like Git is highly valued, and coursework or certifications in embedded systems are beneficial. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective teamwork help interns excel in dynamic project environments. These skills and qualities are crucial for developing reliable embedded solutions and adapting to the fast-evolving demands of hardware-software integration.

What is the difference between Embedded System Engineer Intern vs Embedded Software Developer Intern?

AspectEmbedded System Engineer InternEmbedded Software Developer Intern
Required CredentialsTypically pursuing or holding a degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or related fieldsUsually pursuing or holding a degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or related fields
Work EnvironmentHands-on hardware and firmware development, working with microcontrollers and embedded devicesSoftware-focused, developing code for embedded systems, often in simulation or on hardware
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in industries like automotive, consumer electronics, and industrial automationCommon in IoT, consumer electronics, and software companies working on embedded applications

The main difference between Embedded System Engineer Intern and Embedded Software Developer Intern lies in their focus areas. The Embedded System Engineer Intern typically works more with hardware, firmware, and microcontrollers, while the Embedded Software Developer Intern concentrates on writing and testing software for embedded systems. Both roles require related technical skills and are often found in similar industries, but their daily tasks and focus differ.

What are the most commonly searched types of Embedded System Engineer jobs in Santa Barbara, CA?

The most popular types of Embedded System Engineer jobs in Santa Barbara, CA are:

What cities near Santa Barbara, CA are hiring for Embedded System Engineer Intern jobs?

Cities near Santa Barbara, CA with the most Embedded System Engineer Intern job openings:

Embedded System Engineer Intern jobs near you
Infographic showing various Embedded System Engineer Intern job openings in Santa Barbara, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 19% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $58,824 per year, or $28.3 per hour.

Principal FPGA Image Pipeline Engineer

Alcon

Goleta, CA • On-site

$150K - $183K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 15 hours ago

Alcon rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 70 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

234th of 543 rated manufacturers

Job description

At Alcon, we are driven by the meaningful work we do to help people see brilliantly. We innovate boldly, champion progress, and act with speed as the global leader in eye care. Here, you'll be recognized for your commitment and contributions and see your career like never before. Together, we go above and beyond to make an impact in the lives of our patients and customers.
We foster an inclusive culture and are looking for diverse, talented people to join Alcon. As a Principal FPGA Image Pipeline Engineer supporting Research & Development of Alcon's Surgical Instrumentation in Goleta, CA, you will be trusted to assist in the design of next-gen surgical cameras used in eye surgery.
In this role, a typical day will include:
  • Designing Field-Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) logic using VHDL or Verilog, write testbenches for functional simulation.
  • Writing timing constraints to close timing on FPGA designs.
  • Developing image processing pipeline on FPGA to interface with DDR memories.
  • Interfacing FPGA to external hardware peripherals, including high resolution image sensors, temperature sensors, flash memories, etc.
  • Programming embedded processors using C language.
  • Organize weekly stand-up meeting and be the technical lead of the team
  • Testing embedded system through UART/RS-232, J-tag debugger, LEDs, oscilloscope, logic analyzer, etc.
  • Developing firmware following Agile Design Methodology. Using version control to commit and push firmware code. Performing code review through pull request.
  • Writing detailed design documentation.
  • Maintaining automated FPGA build and test platform by scripting.
  • Creating host computer test tools or scripts using C/C++ or python to test embedded systems.
  • Working with Electrical Engineering team to review FPGA board schematics and layout.
  • Working with software developers for software/hardware interfacing.
  • Providing guidance to mentor junior FPGA engineers.
  • Interacting with other departments within Alcon, and external vendors, suppliers.
  • Communicating to vendor field application engineers (FAE) efficiently to receive technical support.

WHAT YOU'LL BRING TO ALCON:
  • Bachelor's Degree or Equivalent years of directly related experience (or high school +13 yrs; Assoc.+9 yrs; M.S.+2 yrs; PhD+0 yrs)
  • The ability to fluently read, write, understand and communicate in English
  • 5 Years of Relevant Experience
  • Relocation and Visa Sponsorship: Yes

PREFERRED:
  • Demonstrated expertise in FPGA design and development, including memory interfacing, finite state machine (FSM) architectures, timing optimization, and timing closure methodologies.
  • Advanced proficiency with FPGA development, simulation, and verification tools, including Xilinx ISE/Vivado, Intel Quartus, Microchip Libero SoC, ModelSim, and/or Questa.
  • Strong programming and hardware description language skills, including VHDL, Verilog/System Verilog, C/C++, and Python.
  • Experience providing technical leadership or guidance within FPGA design and development environments.
  • Working knowledge of communication interfaces and protocols, including I2C, SPI, and UART/RS-232.
  • Experience utilizing version control systems and software development best practices to support collaborative engineering efforts.
  • Experience using terminal communication applications such as HyperTerminal, Tera Term, or comparable tools.
  • Demonstrated ability to read, interpret, and troubleshoot electronic schematics and printed circuit board (PCB) layouts.
  • Extensive hands-on experience with electronic test and measurement equipment, including oscilloscopes, digital multimeters, signal generators, logic analyzers, and related tools.
  • Strong hardware debugging and root-cause analysis skills, including troubleshooting at the printed circuit board assembly (PCBA) level.

HOW YOU CAN THRIVE AT ALCON:
  • Join Alcon's mission to provide top-tier, innovative products and solutions to enhance sight & enhance lives.
  • Grow your career in a highly collaborative and diverse environment.
  • Alcon provides robust benefits package including health, life, retirement, paid time off, and much more!

Alcon Careers
See your impact at alcon.com.careers
ATTENTION: Current Alcon Employee/Contingent Worker
If you are currently an active employee/contingent worker at Alcon, please click the appropriate link below to apply on the Internal Career site.
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Compensation and Benefits
Alcon's Total Rewards programs are designed to align incentives with business objectives, support our values, and deliver long-term value. Our compensation approach includes a combination of fixed and variable pay, with short-term and long-term incentive opportunities for eligible roles. Our benefits offerings are designed to support associates and their families across key life events, including programs that promote health and well-being, provide financial security, and support retirement planning.
The salary range posted represents the anticipated hiring range for this role. Actual compensation may vary based on factors such as experience, skills, location, and internal equity, and may fall outside the posted range.
Pay Range
130,900.00 - 169,400.00
Pay Frequency
Annual
Alcon is an Equal Opportunity Employer and participates in E-Verify. Alcon takes pride in maintaining a diverse environment and our policies are not to discriminate in recruitment, hiring, training, promotion or other employment practices for reasons of race, color, religion, gender, national origin, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital or veteran status, disability, or any other legally protected status. Alcon is also committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodation to individuals with disabilities. If, because of a medical condition or disability, you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application process, or in order to perform the essential functions of a position, please send an email to alcon.recruitment@alcon.com and let us know the nature of your request and your contact information.

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