1

Embedded System Software Engineer Jobs in California

Embedded Software Engineer

Los Angeles, CA ยท 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 ...

This is an opportunity to work on all aspects of the system including device drivers, networking functions and services, encryption, and security features. This Senior Embedded Software Engineer ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Embedded System Software Engineer information

See California salary details

$69.1K

$151.4K

$171.7K

How much do embedded system software engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for embedded system software engineer in California is $151,375.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $129,800.00 and $170,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an Embedded System Software Engineer do?

An Embedded System Software Engineer designs, develops, tests, and optimizes software for embedded systems, which are specialized computing devices integrated into hardware. They work with microcontrollers, real-time operating systems (RTOS), and low-level programming languages like C and C++. Their responsibilities include writing efficient code, debugging hardware-software interactions, and ensuring system stability and performance. They often collaborate with hardware engineers to ensure seamless integration of software and hardware components.

What does a typical day look like for an Embedded System Software Engineer?

A typical day for an Embedded System Software Engineer involves writing and testing code for embedded devices, debugging hardware-software interactions, and collaborating closely with hardware engineers and cross-functional teams. You may participate in design reviews, update technical documentation, and ensure that software meets performance and safety requirements. Your role often requires balancing multiple projects, troubleshooting complex system issues, and adapting to evolving product needs. Working in this field provides the opportunity to see your software in action on real-world devices, making it both challenging and rewarding.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Embedded System Software Engineer position, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Embedded System Software Engineer, you need a solid background in C/C++ programming, microcontroller architectures, and real-time operating systems, typically supported by a degree in electrical engineering, computer engineering, or a related field. Experience with debugging tools, protocol analyzers, version control systems (like Git), and certifications such as Certified Embedded Systems Engineer (CESE) are advantageous. Strong analytical thinking, effective problem-solving, and clear communication help distinguish top performers in this role. These skills and qualities are essential for designing, developing, and maintaining reliable embedded software that interacts seamlessly with hardware and meets rigorous industry standards.

What are the most commonly searched types of Embedded System Software Engineer jobs in California? The most popular types of Embedded System Software Engineer jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Embedded System Software Engineer jobs in California? For Embedded System Software Engineer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in California are hiring for Embedded System Software Engineer jobs? Cities in California with the most Embedded System Software Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Embedded System Software Engineer job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 89% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $151,375 per year, or $72.8 per hour.

Sr Embedded Systems Software Engineer

Purple Hires Inc

Irvine, CA โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Posted 20 days ago


Job description

Position 2 :ย Sr Embedded Systems Software Engineer

Location: Irvine CA (100% Onsite)

Note:ย Embedded System software engineer - should be able to architect, design and implement application layer. If this person has similar experience in automotive propulsion systems or aerospace propulsion system then it is good fit. This is not web based design, motor control, or only BMS control engineer โ€“ it is overall system engineer.

Required Qualifications

  • 5+ years of experience developing embedded control software for complex real-time systems
  • Strong proficiency in embedded C/C++ and real-time software architecture
  • Experience designing system-level control logic, state machines, and sequencing
  • Hands-on experience with communication protocols such as CAN (and derivatives), SPI,
  • Ethernet, or ARINC (825/664)
  • Experience with model-basedย design tools (MATLAB/Simulink) and SIL/HIL testing
  • Proven ability to integrate and debug software across hardware, firmware, and system
  • boundaries
  • Strong analytical skills and system-level problem-solving ability.

Preferred / Bonus Experience

  • Experience with TI C2000, NXP, or similar real-time control microcontrollers
  • Prior work on safety-critical or regulated systems (aerospace, automotive, industrial)
  • Exposure to certification-oriented development processes (DO-178C, ARP4754/4761, ISO
  • 26262 concepts)
  • Experience defining software architectures and development processes for growing teams
  • Background spanning motor control, BMS, or vehicle control systems
  • Experience supporting production launch, field issues, and system-level validation