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Embedded Systems Architect Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Umbra

Embedded Systems Engineer

Santa Barbara, CA · On-site

Space Systems is vertically integrated across the satellite architecture, thus the team designs ... About the Job Umbra is seeking an Embedded Systems Engineer with a strong firmware background to ...

Umbra

Embedded Systems Engineer

Santa Barbara, CA · On-site

Space Systems is vertically integrated across the satellite architecture, thus the team designs ... About the Job Umbra is seeking an Embedded Systems Engineer with a strong firmware background to ...

Infostride

Embedded Systems Software Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

$120K/yr

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 ...

Copper

Staff Embedded Systems Engineer

Berkeley, CA · Hybrid

$182K - $210K/yr

You'll take ownership of core embedded architecture, including device communication, fleet ... Own and evolve systems related to fleet management, telemetry, remote control, and data flow, with ...

Apple

Watch Systems Architect

Cupertino, CA · On-site

$299K/yr

... embedded systems, power management, or sensor integration Familiarity with system modeling and ... architecture, wireless connectivity, or low- power design

Copper

Staff Embedded Systems Engineer

Berkeley, CA · On-site

$182K - $210K/yr

You'll take ownership of core embedded architecture, including device communication, fleet ... Own and evolve systems related to fleet management, telemetry, remote control, and data flow, with ...

STR

Embedded Systems Emulation Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

STR is hiring an Embedded Systems Emulation Engineer to join their multidisciplinary team ... Responsibilities : • Work as part of a small, focused team to architect, develop, implement, and ...

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All JobsEmbedded Systems Architect JobsEmbedded Systems Architect Jobs in California

Embedded Systems Architect information

See California salary details

$130.3K

$171.2K

How much do embedded systems architect jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 19, 2026, the average yearly pay for embedded systems architect in California is $169,346.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $170,700.00 and $170,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Embedded Systems Architects?

Embedded Systems Architects are professionals who design and oversee the development of embedded systems—specialized computing systems that are part of larger devices, such as cars, medical equipment, or household appliances. They are responsible for defining system architecture, selecting hardware and software components, and ensuring that all parts work together efficiently and securely. Their role often involves collaborating with engineers, software developers, and project managers to deliver reliable and optimized embedded solutions. Embedded Systems Architects need a deep understanding of both hardware and software, as well as strong problem-solving and communication skills.

What is the difference between Embedded Systems Architect vs Embedded Software Engineer?

AspectEmbedded Systems Architect

Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or related fields; certifications like ARM or IoT certifications are common.

Work EnvironmentDesigning system architecture in R&D labs, manufacturing facilities, or product development teams.

Employer & Industry UsageUsed across industries like automotive, consumer electronics, aerospace, and industrial automation.

The Embedded Systems Architect focuses on designing and planning the overall system architecture, ensuring hardware and software integration. In contrast, the Embedded Software Engineer implements and tests the software components within that architecture. Both roles require technical expertise, but the architect has a broader strategic focus, while the engineer concentrates on coding and debugging.

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

To thrive as an Embedded Systems Architect, you need deep expertise in embedded software and hardware design, strong knowledge of microcontrollers, and a relevant degree in electrical engineering, computer engineering, or a related field. Familiarity with programming languages such as C/C++, real-time operating systems (RTOS), and experience with tools like MATLAB, Simulink, and various circuit design platforms are typically required. Strong problem-solving, communication, and leadership skills help you collaborate effectively and translate complex requirements into robust system architectures. These competencies are crucial to delivering efficient, reliable, and scalable embedded solutions that meet project and industry standards.

How does an Embedded Systems Architect typically collaborate with cross-functional teams during a project?

An Embedded Systems Architect works closely with cross-functional teams, including hardware engineers, software developers, and project managers, to ensure system integration and alignment with project goals. They often facilitate technical discussions, clarify system requirements, and resolve design trade-offs between hardware and software components. Regular collaboration involves design reviews, technical documentation, and providing guidance to ensure that deliverables meet both functional and performance standards. This collaborative environment is key to delivering robust and reliable embedded solutions.
What are popular job titles related to Embedded Systems Architect jobs in California? For Embedded Systems Architect jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Embedded Systems Architect jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Embedded Systems Architect jobs in California are:
Embedded Systems Architect jobs near you
Infographic showing various Embedded Systems Architect job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 79% Full Time, and 21% Contract. Highlights an 95% In-person, and 5% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $169,346 per year, or $81.4 per hour.
Embedded Systems Architect - Aerospace & Defense

Embedded Systems Architect - Aerospace & Defense

Advanced Micro Devices, Inc

San Jose, CA • On-site

$170K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 22 days ago

Advanced Micro Devices rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

26th of 143 rated electronics manufacturers

Job description

WHAT YOU DO AT AMD CHANGES EVERYTHING
At AMD, our mission is to build great products that accelerate next-generation computing experiences-from AI and data centers, to PCs, gaming and embedded systems. Grounded in a culture of innovation and collaboration, we believe real progress comes from bold ideas, human ingenuity and a shared passion to create something extraordinary. When you join AMD, you'll discover the real differentiator is our culture. We push the limits of innovation to solve the world's most important challenges-striving for execution excellence, while being direct, humble, collaborative, and inclusive of diverse perspectives. Join us as we shape the future of AI and beyond. Together, we advance your career.
THE ROLE:
The AECG Embedded Business Team builds and optimizes x86 and Adaptive SOC platforms for embedded and computing applications, working across silicon, firmware, and software to deliver reliable, high-performance solutions at scale. We work with internal teams, sales, and partners to drive the value proposition for AMD embedded products. We work with customers and partners to address unique applications needs, specifically for the aerospace and defense market.
Define and create AMD's embedded processor solutions optimized for Aerospace & Defense applications! You'll specify the reference designs, product features, and embedded software and firmware solutions for x86, Arm, and RiscV processors to address requirements of edge sensors and mission computing for defense applications. You'll be part of a dynamic team of experienced staff and systems architects within AMD's aerospace and defense embedded business team, where your experience and vision for embedded computing in the fields of land, air, sea, and/or space systems is matched by your passion for creating solutions to enable our customers' mission success.
THE PERSON:
We're looking for someone with deep experience in embedded computing with x86 with ability to translate that experience into a vision of future generation system capabilities. We need someone who can clearly communicate their ideas internally with cross-functional teams and externally with our Aerospace and Defense customers. The successful candidate seeks new knowledge, listens carefully to customers' needs, influences with data and examples, and pursues the win-win for our customers and for AMD. They are equally capable of working alone and in small groups to develop specifications and definitions, and presenting out their ideas and results in large team meetings and at industry conferences.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Serve as the x86 solutions expert within our Aerospace and Defense team

  • Collaborate with other internal x86 technical marketing, applications, and product management teams to form value propositions for and influence of x86 roadmap

  • Develop and maintain strategic relationships with key aerospace and defense customers and partners, driving adoption of AMD products and informing future requirements

  • Create product value propositions that positively differentiate AMD x86 products, developing and directing outbound content, presentations, and webinars

  • Define, drive, and track co-developments for partner ecosystem (COTS providers)

  • Specify requirements and application use-cases for future x86 processors and solutions

  • Define and specify reference designs and benchmarking activity that showcase the capabilities of AMD products, integrating with demo designs in application fields such as radar, communications, image detection and classification, and AI

  • Guide internal and external cross-functional teams in the execution and delivery of reference designs and benchmarking

  • Experience with embedded processors and systems in the defense community, product management, or in an applications engineering role

  • Strong background experience with x86 and Arm CPUs, and ideally exposure to RiscV

  • Knowledge and experience with BIOS, embedded drivers, and application software

  • Knowledgeable with memory architectures and tradeoffs impacting performance

  • Experience with comparative tradeoffs and performance benchmarking of processors

  • Experience with high-performance networking interfaces and tradeoffs (RoCEv2/RDMA)

  • Experience working with Linux variants and common RTOS requirements in Defense

  • Application-level experience with memory and resource partitioning, and hypervisors

  • Knowledgeable about compilers and workflows

  • Background working with COTS vendors on SBC development for defense applications

  • Strong analytical problem-solving skills, with ability to quickly learn, adapt, and apply new concepts

  • Must be a hands-on person who takes initiative and is self-motivated

  • Demonstrated capability to develop product value propositions and drive roadmaps

  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills, presentations skills, and the ability to work with multiple groups

  • Proven ability to work with cross-functional and geographically distributed teams

  • Familiarity with Intel and AMD x86 device architectures, including Ryzen and EPYC

  • Experience with x86 and ARM CPU programming and tools

  • Exposure to SoCs integrating programmable logic, such as Versal

  • Understanding or experience in embedded graphics and vision systems with GPUs

  • Edge AI and ML understanding, knowledge, or experience

  • Embedded DSP understanding, knowledge, or experience

  • Insight on capabilities and trades for x86 vs GPGPU for signal processing

  • Understanding of security features and requirements for embedded processors

  • Experience with relevant development flows, architectures, system design and integration, memory and high bandwidth IO interfaces, and verification methodologies

  • Knowledge of Linux; code development, scripting, GitHub, and open-source software
  • Deep insight into benchmarking, performance analysis, and optimizations on hardware

  • Requires domestic and international travel up to 20% of time

ACADEMIC CREDENTIALS:
  • Bachelor's or Master's degree in electrical and computer engineering, electrical engineering, or similar technical field

This role is not eligible for visa sponsorship.
#LI-JG1
#Hybrid
Benefits offered are described: AMD benefits at a glance.
AMD does not accept unsolicited resumes from headhunters, recruitment agencies, or fee-based recruitment services. AMD and its subsidiaries are equal opportunity, inclusive employers and will consider all applicants without regard to age, ancestry, color, marital status, medical condition, mental or physical disability, national origin, race, religion, political and/or third-party affiliation, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, military or veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. We encourage applications from all qualified candidates and will accommodate applicants' needs under the respective laws throughout all stages of the recruitment and selection process.
AMD may use Artificial Intelligence to help screen, assess or select applicants for this position. AMD's "Responsible AI Policy" is available here.
This posting is for an existing vacancy.

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