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Embedded System Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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

System Engineer

San Jose, CA · On-site

$85K - $100K/yr

... and IoT/Embedded customers worldwide. We are the #5 fastest growing company among the Silicon ... High-performance server product team in Supermicro is seeking talented System Engineer who can lead ...

System Engineer

San Jose, CA · On-site

$84K - $134K/yr

... and IoT/Embedded customers worldwide. We are the #5 fastest growing company among the Silicon ... High-performance server product team in Supermicro is seeking talented System Engineer who can lead ...

System Engineer

San Jose, CA · On-site

$90K - $110K/yr

... and IoT/Embedded customers worldwide. We are the #5 fastest growing company among the Silicon ... High-performance server product team in Supermicro is seeking talented System Engineer who can lead ...

Stay current with developments in robotics hardware, embedded systems, sensors, and related engineering tools. Must Have Skills - Robotics and System Fundamentals: Working knowledge of robotic ...

Stay current with developments in robotics hardware, embedded systems, sensors, and related engineering tools. Must Have Skills - Robotics and System Fundamentals: Working knowledge of robotic ...

System Engineer

San Jose, CA · On-site

$85K - $100K/yr

... and IoT/Embedded customers worldwide. We are the #5 fastest growing company among the Silicon ... High-performance server product team in Supermicro is seeking talented System Engineer who can lead ...

As an Embedded Systems Engineer on the Federal Team at Field AI, you will contribute to the ... What You Will Get To Do 1. Compute System Design * Compute Architecture: Architect and configure ...

As an Embedded Systems Engineer on the Federal Team at Field AI, you will contribute to the ... What You Will Get To Do 1. Compute System Design * Compute Architecture: Architect and configure ...

As an Embedded Systems Engineer on the Federal Team at Field AI, you will contribute to the ... What You Will Get To Do 1. Compute System Design * Compute Architecture: Architect and configure ...

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Showing results 1-20

Embedded System Engineer information

See California salary details

$61.7K

$135.5K

$189.5K

How much do embedded system engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for embedded system engineer in California is $135,476.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $110,000.00 and $161,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior engineers in specialized fields such as software engineering, petroleum engineering, and certain aerospace engineering roles can earn $300,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced skills, and leadership responsibilities. High compensation often involves working in high-demand industries, holding managerial or executive positions, or possessing rare expertise and certifications.

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

AspectEmbedded System EngineerFirmware Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Electrical, Computer Engineering, or related fields; certifications like Certified Embedded Systems EngineerBachelor's in Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering; certifications like Certified Firmware Developer
Work EnvironmentDesigning and developing embedded hardware/software for devices like IoT, automotive, consumer electronicsWriting low-level code to optimize firmware for microcontrollers and embedded devices
Employer & Industry UsageElectronics manufacturers, automotive, consumer electronics, aerospaceConsumer electronics, IoT devices, medical devices, automotive

Embedded System Engineers focus on designing integrated hardware and software systems, while Firmware Engineers specialize in developing low-level code that runs directly on hardware. Both roles often overlap but differ mainly in scope and focus area within embedded development.

Will AI replace embedded system engineers?

AI is unlikely to fully replace embedded system engineers, as their role involves designing, developing, and maintaining hardware and software systems that require specialized knowledge and problem-solving skills. AI can assist with tasks like code generation and testing, but human expertise is essential for system architecture, troubleshooting, and ensuring safety and reliability in embedded applications.

What do you do as an embedded systems engineer?

An embedded systems engineer designs, develops, and tests hardware and software for embedded devices such as microcontrollers and processors. They work with programming languages like C or C++, use tools like oscilloscopes and debuggers, and often collaborate with hardware teams to create reliable, efficient systems for applications like consumer electronics, automotive, or industrial equipment.

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, extensive experience, and sometimes leadership responsibilities or stock options.

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

To thrive as an Embedded System Engineer, you need a solid background in electronics, computer engineering, and programming languages like C/C++, typically supported by a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with embedded development tools, real-time operating systems (RTOS), microcontroller architectures, and certifications such as ARM or IoT-related credentials are highly valuable. Excellent problem-solving, attention to detail, and effective teamwork and communication skills help you excel in multidisciplinary environments. These skills and qualities are essential for designing reliable, efficient embedded solutions that meet stringent technical and industry requirements.

What are Embedded System Engineers?

Embedded System Engineers are professionals who design, develop, and maintain computer systems that are integrated into larger mechanical or electrical systems. These systems, known as embedded systems, are dedicated to specific tasks and are commonly found in devices like cars, medical equipment, home appliances, and industrial machines. Engineers in this field work with both hardware and software components, ensuring that the system operates efficiently, reliably, and safely within its intended environment. Their responsibilities often include programming microcontrollers, optimizing system performance, and troubleshooting hardware-software interactions.

What are some common challenges an Embedded System Engineer faces when working on multidisciplinary project teams?

Embedded System Engineers often collaborate with hardware designers, software developers, and project managers, which can present challenges such as aligning timelines, integrating software with evolving hardware prototypes, and ensuring consistent communication across disciplines. Navigating these complexities requires strong interpersonal skills, adaptability, and a proactive approach to problem-solving. Successful engineers frequently participate in cross-functional meetings and use collaborative tools to track progress and address integration issues early, helping to ensure a smooth development process.
What job categories do people searching Embedded System Engineer jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Embedded System Engineer jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Embedded System Engineer jobs? Cities in California with the most Embedded System Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Embedded System Engineer job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $135,476 per year, or $65.1 per hour.

Senior Embedded Systems Engineer

Toyon

Goleta, CA • On-site

$145K - $235K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 19 hours ago


Job description

Description

US Citizenship is Required. Ability to qualify for a US Department of Defense security clearance required. Candidate must be SAP and SCI program eligible.


This position is in-person.


Toyon is looking for a talented and passionate Senior Embedded Systems Engineer to join our growing Aerospace Systems team. In this role, you will play a lead role in the design, development, and testing of embedded systems for our next-generation aerospace systems. You will be a technology leader, working with Lead Engineer and Program Manager on technology strategies that drive embedded development. You will be responsible for the entire development lifecycle, from concept to implementation, ensuring our systems meet the highest standards of safety, reliability, and performance.


Responsibilities:

  • Design and develop embedded firmware for flight control systems, navigation systems, and other avionics subsystems
  • Write clean, efficient, and well-documented code in C and C++
  • Design and implement hardware interfaces for sensors, actuators, and other peripherals
  • 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
  • Prepare technical documentation, including requirements specifications, design documents, and test plans
  • Lead the embedded technology roadmap to guide engineering design

Requirements

  • Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, Aerospace Engineering, or a related field
  • 7+ years of experience in embedded systems development in industry
  • Experience developing and delivering operational systems that have been used
  • Proven ability to write clean, well-documented, and sustainable code
  • Strong experience in C and C++ programming
  • Experience with scripting languages (e.g. Python) for automation tasks
  • Excellent understanding of digital logic design principles
  • Experience with hardware design and interfacing
  • Understanding of digital communications via UART, SPI, CAN, etc.
  • Knowledge of software version control principles
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team
  • U.S. Citizenship and ability to obtain a U.S. Department of Defense security clearance with SAP and SCI program eligibility

Preferred:

  • 15+ years of experience in embedded systems development in industry
  • Experience with debugging complex embedded systems using hardware debugging tools
  • Experience writing HDL for FPGAs
  • Knowledge of aerospace engineering subdisciplines: GN&C, propulsion, aerodynamics, astrodynamics, structures
  • Experience with real-time operating systems (RTOS)
  • Previous usage of git in collaborative environments
  • Analog and digital circuit and PCB design for aerospace applications
  • Passionate about solving real world problems quickly
  • Multiple instances of having designed, built, and delivered useful software to users
  • Willing to take risks and own the accountability for managing those risks
  • Existing TS Clearance

WE OFFER AN EXCEPTIONAL EMPLOYEE BENEFITS PACKAGE!

  • Competitive Industry Pay
  • 100% Employer-Paid Medical Insurance Premium
  • HSA with Employer Contributions
  • Dental and Vision Coverage Options
  • Paid Holidays
  • Paid Vacation and Sick leave
  • Company Funded 401(k) and Profit Sharing Plans
  • Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP)
  • Life and Disability Insurance  
  • Paid Parental Leave
  • Discretionary Bonus Eligibility

The annual pay range for the Senior Embedded Systems Engineer position is $145,000 to $235,000.


The posted pay range values provide the candidate with guidance on annual base compensation for the position, at a full time level of effort, exclusive of overtime, bonus, and benefits-related compensation, over a range of qualifications that may fit hiring objectives. Toyon Research Corporation will consider the individual candidate's education, work experience, applicable knowledge, skills and training, among other factors, when preparing an offer of employment. 


Equal Opportunity Employer including Disability and Veterans   


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Learn more about our company in our latest video, We are Toyon. 


The application window for this posting will remain open until the position is filled.   


Ref #2650-H