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Embedded Systems Developer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

Copper

Staff Embedded Systems Engineer

Berkeley, CA · Hybrid

$182K - $210K/yr

Overview As a Staff Embedded Systems Engineer at Copper, you'll help build the firmware that powers our energy-storage-enabled appliances. You'll work across device firmware, connectivity, and cloud ...

STR

Embedded Systems Emulation Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

STR is hiring an Embedded Systems Emulation Engineer to join their multidisciplinary team developing cutting-edge technologies for national security. The role involves architecting and implementing ...

Copper

Staff Embedded Systems Engineer

Berkeley, CA · On-site

$182K - $210K/yr

Overview As a Staff Embedded Systems Engineer at Copper, you'll help build the firmware that powers our energy-storage-enabled appliances. You'll work across device firmware, connectivity, and cloud ...

STR

Embedded Systems Emulation Engineer

San Diego, CA

$110K - $151K/yr

STR is hiring an Embedded Systems Emulation Engineer to join our multidisciplinary team of researchers and engineers developing cutting-edge technologies with significant and immediate impact on our ...

Leidos

Software / Embedded Systems Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$139K - $183K/yr

Analyzing and enhancing the efficiency, stability, and scalability of system resources. * DevOps & ... Embedded systems: electronic hardware implementation/testing and software programming * Basic Linux ...

STR

Embedded Systems Emulation Engineer

San Diego, CA

$110K - $151K/yr

STR is hiring an Embedded Systems Emulation Engineer to join our multidisciplinary team of researchers and engineers developing cutting-edge technologies with significant and immediate impact on our ...

Leidos

Software / Embedded Systems Engineer

San Diego, CA

$139K - $183K/yr

Analyzing and enhancing the efficiency, stability, and scalability of system resources. * DevOps & ... Experiencewith Embedded Linuxboard bring-up, bootloaders (U-boot), and build systems (Yocto)

STR

Embedded Systems Emulation Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$110K - $151K/yr

STR is hiring an Embedded Systems Emulation Engineer to join our multidisciplinary team of researchers and engineers developing cutting-edge technologies with significant and immediate impact on our ...

STR

Embedded Systems Emulation Engineer

Carlsbad, CA · On-site

$110K - $151K/yr

STR is hiring an Embedded Systems Emulation Engineer to join our multidisciplinary team of researchers and engineers developing cutting-edge technologies with significant and immediate impact on our ...

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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 Jul 21, 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 engineer makes $500,000 a year?

Highly experienced senior engineers in specialized fields such as software engineering, data science, or executive roles can earn $500,000 or more annually, especially in high-demand industries or companies. Achieving this level typically requires advanced skills, extensive experience, and often leadership responsibilities or stock options.

What do embedded systems developers do?

Embedded systems developers design, develop, and test software for embedded devices such as microcontrollers and processors used in appliances, vehicles, medical equipment, and industrial machines. They work with hardware specifications, programming languages like C or C++, and tools such as debuggers and simulators to create efficient, reliable software that operates within hardware constraints.

Will AI replace embedded developers?

AI is unlikely to fully replace embedded systems developers, as their role involves designing, programming, and testing hardware-specific software that requires specialized knowledge and problem-solving skills. AI can assist with code generation and debugging, but human expertise remains essential for complex system integration, safety considerations, and customizing solutions for specific hardware environments.

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.

Is embedded systems still worth it in 2026?

Embedded systems developers continue to be in demand as embedded devices are integral to industries like automotive, healthcare, and IoT. Skills in programming languages such as C and C++, along with knowledge of hardware interfaces and real-time operating systems, remain valuable for career growth in this field in 2026.

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 July 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 9% Contract. Highlights an 82% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 15% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $211,197 per year, or $101.5 per hour.
Senior Embedded Systems Engineer

Senior Embedded Systems Engineer

SeeScan

San Diego, CA • On-site

$120K - $200K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 22 days ago

Job description

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 board bring-up to writing device drivers. An innovator who embraces challenge and takes initiative in driving change will thrive in this role.
This is a fully onsite position in Kearny Mesa.
Compensation
The salary range for our Senior Embedded Systems Engineer position is $120,000 to $200,000 annually.
This range represents a good faith estimate based on the qualifications we expect to find in a successful candidate. Actual compensation offered may be less or greater than this estimate based on a variety of factors, including, but not limited to, our assessment of your ability to bring value to our organization.
We offer
  • A position within an established company that has over 40 years of experience
  • Medical, dental, and vision coverage
  • Traditional and Roth 401(k) investment options, with partial company matching contribution
  • Flexible Paid Time Off plan with no cap or "use it or lose it" requirement

In your application, include your resume and a thoughtful cover letter explaining why you are the ideal candidate for this position. We are looking for a long-term, in-house teammate to join us, not a contractor or consultant.
In this position, you will
  • Develop software in C/C++ for embedded systems
  • Continuously analyze and improve efficiency, stability and scalability of system resources
  • Debug, evaluate, revise, and help design hardware platforms
  • Create design documentation and test plans
  • Participate in code reviews

Your background
  • Strong C/C++ programming skills
  • Experience developing code for bare metal and RTOS environments
  • Experience working with various microcontrollers and microprocessors
  • Experience with communication protocols such as I2C, SPI, UART, SCCB, MIPI, etc.
  • Understanding of compilers and linkers
  • Knowledge of DSP algorithms and techniques

About you
  • Proactive and creative in identifying novel solutions to complex problems
  • Effective, efficient troubleshooter
  • Willing to work with your hands

About SeeScan
Beneath the ground and below the water's surface is a world out of sight. Whether it's the inside of a pipe, or a maze of the buried services that keep our world running, or the deepest places of the ocean, our mission is to create products that help our customers see. Dating back more than 40 years to our founder's garage, we are an original equipment manufacturer in San Diego, CA that builds diagnostic, utility locating, and harsh-environment oceanographic equipment from the ground up. And as leaders in our industries, we provide ongoing support and parts services to ensure that our equipment is never short of the best.
At SeeScan, you'll be part of a group of people who bring passion and energy into everything they do. We value the individual contributions all of our employees make and invest in the tools and training they need to find success and professional growth. We do our best to empower the right people to take on new opportunities, and our culture promotes transparency, integrity, and continuous learning.
Notes
  • No recruiters, contractors, or consultants, please
  • No relocation assistance or visa sponsorships available for this position
  • SeeScan is an Equal Opportunity Employer

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