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Embedded Systems Developer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Toyon

Embedded Systems Engineer

Goleta, CA

$100K - $200K/yr

Toyon is looking for a talented and passionate Embedded Systems Engineer to join our growing Aerospace Systems team. In this role, you will play a key part in the design, development, and testing of ...

Umbra

Embedded Systems Engineer

Santa Barbara, CA · On-site

About the Job Umbra is seeking an Embedded Systems Engineer with a strong firmware background to support development of mission-critical satellite systems. This role focuses on bare-metal embedded ...

Umbra

Embedded Systems Engineer

Santa Barbara, CA · On-site

About the Job Umbra is seeking an Embedded Systems Engineer with a strong firmware background to support development of mission-critical satellite systems. This role focuses on bare-metal embedded ...

Aurelius Systems

Embedded Systems Engineer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$155K - $225K/yr

We need an Embedded Systems Engineer to own the layer between hardware and the application stack ... developer with no hardware debug, or you treat the board as a black box. Nice to Haves: * Yocto or ...

Toyon

Senior Embedded Systems Engineer

Goleta, CA · On-site

$145K - $235K/yr

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 ...

SeeScan

Senior Embedded Systems Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$120K - $200K/yr

About this position We are looking for a hands-on Senior Embedded Systems Engineer to join our team. You will work in the domain where software meets hardware, from troubleshooting hardware during ...

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All JobsEmbedded Systems Developer JobsEmbedded Systems Developer Jobs in California

Embedded Systems Developer information

See California salary details

$138.2K

$211.2K

$308.9K

How much do embedded systems developer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for embedded systems developer in California is $211,197.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $154,400.00 and $284,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Embedded Systems Developers?

Embedded Systems Developers are engineers who design, develop, and maintain software that runs on embedded devices—specialized computing systems that perform dedicated functions within larger systems. These professionals work with hardware and software integration, programming microcontrollers or microprocessors in languages like C or C++. Their work is crucial in industries such as automotive, consumer electronics, medical devices, and industrial automation, where reliable, real-time processing is essential. Embedded Systems Developers often collaborate closely with hardware engineers to ensure that software efficiently interfaces with physical components.

What are some common challenges faced by Embedded Systems Developers when working on cross-functional teams?

Embedded Systems Developers often collaborate closely with hardware engineers, software teams, and product managers. A common challenge is ensuring seamless integration between hardware and software components, as hardware limitations can impact software functionality and vice versa. Effective communication and proactive problem-solving are key, as requirements may change based on feedback from different stakeholders. Staying adaptable and maintaining clear documentation help ensure that everyone on the team is aligned throughout the development cycle.

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

To thrive as an Embedded Systems Developer, you need strong proficiency in C/C++ programming, microcontroller architectures, and a solid background in electrical or computer engineering. Familiarity with real-time operating systems (RTOS), debugging tools like JTAG, and version control systems such as Git is typically required, along with relevant certifications like ARM Accredited Engineer. Problem-solving, attention to detail, and effective communication are essential soft skills for collaborating with cross-functional teams and ensuring reliable system performance. These abilities enable developers to create efficient, robust embedded solutions that meet stringent technical and safety requirements.

What is the difference between Embedded Systems Developer vs Firmware Engineer?

AspectEmbedded Systems DeveloperFirmware Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's in Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or related fieldsBachelor's or higher in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or related fields
Work EnvironmentDesigning and developing embedded software for hardware devicesWriting low-level firmware for microcontrollers and hardware components
Industry UsageAutomotive, consumer electronics, industrial machinesConsumer electronics, IoT devices, embedded hardware products

Embedded Systems Developers and Firmware Engineers often share similar educational backgrounds and work in embedded hardware industries. However, Embedded Systems Developers focus on designing software for embedded systems, while Firmware Engineers specialize in writing low-level firmware directly controlling hardware components.

What are popular job titles related to Embedded Systems Developer jobs in California? For Embedded Systems Developer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Embedded Systems Developer jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Embedded Systems Developer jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Embedded Systems Developer jobs in CA? For Embedded Systems Developer jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Embedded Systems Developer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Embedded Systems Developer job openings in California as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 84% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $211,197 per year, or $101.5 per hour.

Embedded Systems Engineer

Toyon

Goleta, CA

$100K - $200K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 17 days 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 Embedded Systems Engineer to join our growing Aerospace Systems team. In this role, you will play a key part in the design, development, and testing of embedded systems for our next-generation aerospace systems. You will be a key contributor to the 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

Requirements

  • Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, Aerospace Engineering, or a related field
  • 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:

  • 3+ 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
  • Has designed, built, and delivered useful software to users multiple times
  • 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 Embedded Systems Engineer position is $100,000 to $200,000.


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   


Applicant Privacy Notice 


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.   


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