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Embedded System Engineer Jobs in Boston, MA (NOW HIRING)

Principal System Engineer

Westborough, MA · On-site

$150K - $205K/yr

With projects focused on embedded systems, mobile apps, robotics, engineers at Full Spectrum love the challenge of working with clients on products that have a meaningful impact. Working across ...

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Embedded System Engineer information

See Boston, MA salary details

$67.9K

$149.1K

$208.6K

How much do embedded system engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for embedded system engineer in Boston, MA is $149,126.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $121,100.00 and $177,600.00 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 are the most commonly searched types of Embedded System Engineer jobs in Boston, MA? The most popular types of Embedded System Engineer jobs in Boston, MA are:
Principal System Engineer

Principal System Engineer

Full Spectrum

Westborough, MA • On-site

$150K - $205K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 13 days ago


Job description

Full Spectrum partners with leading companies in MedTech to develop cutting-edge software for medical devices. With projects focused on embedded systems, mobile apps, robotics, engineers at Full Spectrum love the challenge of working with clients on products that have a meaningful impact. Working across different client projects with a wide range of technologies, a career at Full Spectrum offers both technical and professional growth opportunities.
 
Principal System Engineer:
 
At Full Spectrum, our Systems Engineering team is the core differentiator that sets us apart from standard medical device service companies. As a Principal System Engineer, you aren't just using a highly efficient and compliant process, you will be working with Full Spectrum clients to improve their process and provide life-saving technology in a more repeatable manor. You will lead diverse projects, translating complex clinical needs into robust, secure, and compliant engineering realities.
 
 
The Opportunity: Strategic Leadership & Client Impact:
 
In this high-visibility role, you serve as the primary technical interface for our clients, driving Software Systems Engineering for mission-critical medical device projects:
 
Lead & Delegate: Manage project execution by aligning client needs with team tasks and deliverables.
 
Consult & Partner: Collaborate with Regulatory Affairs partners to define system intent, launch strategies, and regulatory pathways.
 
Mentor & Coach: Provide real-time guidance, training, and problem-solving for engineers, particularly within the Software Test and documentation realms.
 
Process Innovation: Consult with Test Process owners to refine methodologies while minimizing audit exposure.
 
Technical Architecture & Risk Management:
You will be responsible for how teams address "Safety and Security by Design" of complex systems, ensuring protective measures are embedded from the earliest stages of development.
 
Safety Risk Analysis: Lead planning for complex software-driven medical devices, perform top-down hazard and harm assessment working with Full Spectrum clients’ clinical tam or medical director, performing bottom-up failure analysis (FMEA) and identifying potential risk to safety.
 
Cybersecurity Strategy: Drive the process for threat model analysis, cyber risk assessments, vulnerability analysis, and incident reporting to ensure full FDA compliance.
 
Lifecycle Risk: Apply practical risk management throughout the entire product lifecycle, utilizing strong familiarity with both design and process risk models from ISO 14971.
 
Requirements Mastery: Develop and implement requirement schemas and hierarchies using industry-standard RM tools, ensuring flawless allocation and traceability.
 
V&V Strategy & Regulatory Mastery:
You will define the path to market by establishing rigorous V&V strategies within an iterative development environment.
 
V&V Leadership: Oversee system and software V&V approaches, including test planning, design, and the creation of comprehensive test cases.
 
Testing Strategy: Implement lifecycle-based testing (IEC 62304), covering everything from unit testing to system-level GUI testing.
 
System Verification: Define and oversee system integration over development, define performance characterization tests and test requirements and test methods, coordinate and plan testing of the system at meaningful milestones to mitigate project risk and to meet defined performance requirements.
 
Standard Compliance: Act as a subject matter expert on key standards and FDA guidance, including:
 
Software & Risk: IEC 62304, ISO 14971, TIR-32, TIR-45, TIR 80001, and IEC 81001-5-1.
 
Hardware & Safety: IEC 60601-1, IEC 60601-1-8.
 
Quality & Process: 21 CFR Part 820, IEC 13485, and ISPE GAMP-5.
 
Usability: IEC 62366 and basic usability design principles.
 
Qualifications:
 
Education: Bachelor’s degree in Software, Electrical, Biomedical, or Computer Engineering (or a related science discipline).
 
Experience: Minimum of 8 years of relevant experience in Systems Engineering.
 
Leadership: Proven track record in medical device development, identifying project risks, and communicating clearly with stakeholders.
 
Technical Knowledge: Deep understanding of design controls, software lifecycle coaching, and automated Scrum processes for continuous integration.
 
Desirable Skills: (Nice to Have):
 
Technical Proficiencies: Scripting in Python or C/C++, code inspection, and Object-Oriented Programming.
Emerging Tech: Experience with Machine Learning systems, algorithm management, and real-time/embedded programming.
Modern Methodology: Familiarity with Agile, version control, and automating compliant CI/CD pipelines.
 
The base salary for this position is $150,000 to $205,000 annually, and the role is bonus eligible. 
The final salary offer is determined by factors such as experience, location, skills, education, and market conditions. **

We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses and identifying potential inconsistencies or verification signals in application materials based on available information. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.