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Embedded Systems Developer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Apple

Embedded Systems Video Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$139K - $258K/yr

... embedded software/Firmware. Strong software design, problem solving and debugging skills. Detailed understanding of software engineering principles using C and or C++, Real Time Operating Systems ...

PAX Labs

Manager, Embedded Systems

San Francisco, CA · On-site

Reporting directly to the Director of Mechanical Engineering, PAX is looking for a Manager of Embedded Systems (EE/HW) to lead the group responsible for design, engineering, debug, and validation of ...

PAX Labs

Manager, Embedded Systems

San Francisco, CA

Reporting directly to the Director of Mechanical Engineering, PAX is looking for a Manager of Embedded Systems (EE/HW) to lead the group responsible for design, engineering, debug, and validation of ...

Apple

Embedded Systems Video Engineer

Cupertino, CA

$126K - $190K/yr

... programming. Strong software design, problem-solving and debugging skills with a focus on efficient and reliable solutions. Experience in embedded real time multitasking software system. Strong ...

Apple

Embedded Systems Video Engineer

Cupertino, CA

$147K - $272K/yr

... programming. Strong software design, problem-solving and debugging skills with a focus on efficient and reliable solutions. Experience in embedded real time multitasking software system. Strong ...

Apple

Embedded Systems Video Engineer

Cupertino, CA

$126K - $190K/yr

... programming. Strong software design, problem-solving and debugging skills with a focus on efficient and reliable solutions. Experience in embedded real time multitasking software system. Strong ...

Apple

Embedded Systems Video Engineer

Cupertino, CA

$147K - $272K/yr

... programming. Strong software design, problem-solving and debugging skills with a focus on efficient and reliable solutions. Experience in embedded real time multitasking software system. Strong ...

Specter

Software Engineer - Embedded Systems

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$154K - $203K/yr

Embedded Software Engineer - Embedded Systems & Firmware Company Background: Specter is creating a software-defined "control plane" for the physical world. We are starting with protecting American ...

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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 Firmware & Systems Engineer II

FUTEK ADVANCED SENSOR TECHNOLOGY IN

Irvine, CA • On-site

$140K - $150K/yr

Full-time

Posted yesterday

Job description

Job Summary
Embedded Firmware & Systems Engineer II is responsible for designing and developing embedded firmware and system-level solutions for robotics and industrial automation applications. This role focuses on integrating embedded platforms with sensors, actuators, and industrial control systems, with a strong emphasis on real-time performance and industrial communication protocols such as EtherCAT, PROFINET, and EtherNet/IP. The engineer will contribute to system architecture, firmware development, and cross-functional integration, while supporting validation, debugging, and continuous improvement of complex embedded systems in a fast-paced R&D environment.
Essential Job Functions
  • Design and develop embedded firmware for real-time systems with a focus on system-level integration and industrial communication
  • Architect and implement robust communication interfaces using protocols such as PROFINET, EtherCAT, EtherNet/IP, Modbus (RTU/TCP), and CAN/CANopen
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams (hardware, software, and test engineers) to define and drive end-to-end system architectures for robotics and automation applications
  • Integrate embedded systems with industrial controllers (PLCs), sensors, actuators, and motion control systems.
  • Optimize firmware components using C/C++, ensuring reliability, scalability, and performance in real-time environments
  • Lead system-level debugging, troubleshooting, and root cause analysis across firmware, communication networks, and hardware interfaces
  • Participate in system design reviews, define interface requirements, and contribute to overall product architecture decisions
  • Develop and execute test plans for system validation, including communication reliability, timing constraints, and interoperability
  • Develop and maintain clear documentation for system architecture, communication interfaces, and firmware design
  • Stay current with emerging technologies in robotics, industrial automation, and embedded systems, and propose innovative solutions
  • Collaborate with the Electrical Engineering team to design, build, and test rapid prototypes that support new product concepts and align with overall development strategies and design inputs
  • Provide regular updates on project progress, technical risks, and design changes to stakeholders and leadership

Competencies:
  • Strong expertise in real-time embedded systems and firmware development
  • Deep understanding of industrial communication protocols and distributed systems
  • Ability to think at a system level, integrating hardware, firmware, and networked components
  • Proficiency in C/C++ for embedded applications
  • Experience debugging complex systems involving hardware, firmware, and communication layers
  • Strong problem-solving skills with a focus on root cause analysis and system optimization
  • Effective communicator with the ability to collaborate across multidisciplinary teams
  • Ability to manage multiple projects in a fast-paced R&D environment

Education/Experience:
  • Bachelor's or Master's degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Robotics, or related field
  • 6+ years of experience in embedded systems development with exposure to industrial or robotics applications

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Experience with industrial protocols such as PROFINET, EtherCAT, EtherNet/IP, Modbus, CAN/CANopen
  • Familiarity with PLC systems and industrial automation environments
  • Experience with RTOS (FreeRTOS, Zephyr, etc.) and/or embedded Linux
  • Strong understanding of embedded communication protocols, peripheral interfaces, and device integration, including TCP/IP, UART, SPI, I2C, USB, ADCs, DACs, PWM, timers, and other microcontroller subsystems
  • Hands-on experience with microcontrollers (Microchip, STMicro, NXP, Renesas, etc.)
  • Understanding of motion control systems and sensor integration
  • Familiarity with tools such as logic analyzers, oscilloscopes, and protocol analyzers
  • Knowledge of version control (Git) and modern development workflows

Supervisory Responsibility:
This position has no supervisory responsibilities.
Other Duties:
Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

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