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Embedded Systems Developer Jobs in Albuquerque, NM

Senior GNC Engineer

Rio Rancho, NM

$98K - $135K/yr

Senior GNC Engineer We are seeking a Senior GNC Engineer to develop guidance, navigation, and ... Familiarity with flight software integration and real-time embedded systems * Strong problem ...

... of embedded real-time operating systems (RTOS) - RT Linux, VxWorks, FreeRTOS, RTEMS, etc. • ... Citizenship. • Diverse programming experience: C/C++, Python, Windows/Linux scripting. • ...

Electrical Engineer

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

$61K - $141K/yr

Experience with logic devices, PCBs, or embedded systems or programming sof tware * Knowledge of systems engineering, system integration, test and evaluation, or MBSE * Knowledge of system ...

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Embedded Systems Developer information

See Albuquerque, NM salary details

$135.7K

$207.4K

$303.4K

How much do embedded systems developer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for embedded systems developer in Albuquerque, NM is $207,408.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $151,700.00 and $279,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What engineers make $500,000?

Highly experienced engineers in specialized fields such as software engineering, data science, or executive roles can earn $500,000 or more annually. These positions often require advanced skills, certifications, and leadership responsibilities, typically found in senior or executive-level roles within technology companies. Compensation at this level may include base salary, bonuses, and 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 oscilloscopes to ensure the software functions reliably within hardware constraints.

Is C or C++ better for embedded systems?

Embedded systems developers often choose C for its simplicity, low-level hardware access, and minimal runtime, making it suitable for resource-constrained environments. C++ offers features like object-oriented programming and abstractions that can improve code organization and reusability but may introduce additional complexity and overhead, which is a consideration in embedded development. The choice depends on project requirements, hardware constraints, and developer expertise.

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.

Will AI replace embedded programmers?

Embedded systems developers design and program hardware-specific software for devices like IoT gadgets, automotive systems, and medical equipment. While AI can automate certain coding tasks and optimize processes, it is unlikely to fully replace embedded programmers due to the need for specialized knowledge of hardware constraints, real-time operation, and safety-critical requirements. Instead, AI tools are expected to augment their work, making development more efficient.

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 Albuquerque, NM? For Embedded Systems Developer jobs in Albuquerque, NM, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Embedded Systems Developer job openings in Albuquerque, NM as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 95% In-person, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $207,408 per year, or $99.7 per hour.
Senior/Principal R&D Computer Science Engineer - Space & Flight Systems

Senior/Principal R&D Computer Science Engineer - Space & Flight Systems

Sandia

Albuquerque, NM • On-site

$117K - $235K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago


Job description

About Sandia
Sandia National Laboratories is the nation's premier science and engineering lab for national security and technology innovation, with teams of specialists focused on cutting-edge work in a broad array of areas. Some of the main reasons we love our jobs:
  • Challenging work with amazing impact that contributes to security, peace, and freedom worldwide
  • Extraordinary co-workers
  • Some of the best tools, equipment, and research facilities in the world
  • Career advancement and enrichment opportunities
  • Flexible work arrangements for many positions include 9/80 (work 80 hours every two weeks, with every other Friday off) and 4/10 (work 4 ten-hour days each week) compressed workweeks, part-time work, and telecommuting (a mix of onsite work and working from home)
  • Generous vacation, strong medical and other benefits, competitive 401k, learning opportunities, relocation assistance and amenities aimed at creating a solid work/life balance*

World-changing technologies. Life-changing careers. Learn more about Sandia at: http://www.sandia.gov
*These benefits vary by job classification.
What Your Job Will Be Like
Ready to join a dynamic team that solves significant issues for our nation's security? Are you passionate about developing systems that help advance space and warfighter dominance? If so, we invite you to explore this opportunity to join our impactful team and make a difference!
Organization 5361 Space & Flight Systems is seeking a creative and motivated computer scientist, computer engineer, or electrical engineer to join our development team! You will work on a high-performing team developing software and supporting the integration of electronics (hardware, firmware, software, and test systems) into cutting edge space-based payloads to support national security missions.
You will work alongside world-class authorities and emerging leaders and use your skills in the following areas to advance our mission:
  • Technical team leadership
  • Embedded software development
  • Data processing on the edge
  • Systems integration and test

As a successful candidate, you will be responsible for contributing as part of a team developing state-of-the-art embedded systems. You will support design, build, test, integration, launch, and operations in a challenging fast-paced high-consequence environment. Having a desire to learn and develop your own skills will be crucial and beneficial as you join a fun and motivated team to accomplish missions vital to our nation.
Due to the nature of the work, the selected applicant must be able to work onsite. Job location will be in Albuquerque, NM. Relocation provided for those who qualify.
Salary Range
$117,500 - $235,700
*Salary range is estimated, and actual salary will be determined after consideration of the selected candidate's experience and qualifications, and application of any approved geographic salary differential.
Qualifications We Require
  • A Bachelor's degree in a relevant discipline and five (5) years of directly relevant experience, or an equivalent combination of directly relevant education and engineering or scientific experience that demonstrates the knowledge, skills, and ability to perform independent research and development.
  • Ability to obtain and maintain a DOE Q clearance and possibly to obtain and maintain a SCI clearance, which may require a polygraph test

Qualifications We Desire
The ideal R&D S&E Computer Science candidate will in addition possess the following:
  • Graduate degree in Computer Science or a highly related field where an independent research project was a graduation requirement (e.g., independent project, thesis, or dissertation).
  • Demonstrated software development skills and familiarity with modern software development practices and tools (e.g., Agile).
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills, ability to work effectively in multidisciplinary teams, and a passion to improve and expand technical skills.

Also, for this position we are seeking individuals with the following experience:
  • Master's degree in Computer Science/Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or relevant STEM field plus two (2) years' experience
  • Experience in modern software development methodologies, practices, and tools
  • Experience with object-oriented C++ software development
  • Experience with software/hardware test and verification
  • Experience with Unix/Linux operating environments
  • Experience leading software development teams
  • Experience with other software programming languages.
  • Working with embedded processors and hardware.
  • Scientific/engineering data processing software development.
  • Real-time processing of sensor data.
  • Possess a strong dedication to positive teaming dynamic, strong written and verbal skills, detail oriented with a keen focus on customer service.
  • Active DOE security clearance.
  • Active SCI level clearance.

About Our Team
Organization 5361, The Space and Flight Systems department provides hardware and software development for embedded satellite systems, embedded flight systems, and embedded ground systems. These systems range from localized controller applications to high-end node based computers serving as the heart of a satellite payload. Because of the high cost of payload launch, the design focus is on ultra-reliability, small size, and real time response. Department 5361 consists of staff from the disciplines of electrical engineering, computer engineering, computer science, and electronics technology. These highly skilled staff members bring a quality emphasis to the creation of robust reliable embedded system designs.
Posting Duration
This posting will be open for application submissions for a minimum of three (3) calendar days, including the 'posting date'. Sandia reserves the right to extend the posting date at any time.
Security Clearance
Sandia is required by DOE to conduct a pre-employment drug test and background review that includes checks of personal references, credit, law enforcement records, and employment/education verifications. Applicants for employment need to be able to obtain and maintain a DOE Q-level security clearance, which requires U.S. citizenship. If you hold more than one citizenship (i.e., of the U.S. and another country), your ability to obtain a security clearance may be impacted.
Applicants offered employment with Sandia are subject to a federal background investigation to meet the requirements for access to classified information or matter if the duties of the position require a DOE security clearance. Substance abuse or illegal drug use, falsification of information, criminal activity, serious misconduct or other indicators of untrustworthiness can cause a clearance to be denied or terminated by DOE, resulting in the inability to perform the duties assigned and subsequent termination of employment.
EEO
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, or veteran status and any other protected class under state or federal law.
NNSA Requirements for MedPEDs
If you have a Medical Portable Electronic Device (MedPED), such as a pacemaker, defibrillator, drug-releasing pump, hearing aids, or diagnostic equipment and other equipment for measuring, monitoring, and recording body functions such as heartbeat and brain waves, if employed by Sandia National Laboratories you may be required to comply with NNSA security requirements for MedPEDs.
If you have a MedPED and you are selected for an on-site interview at Sandia National Laboratories, there may be additional steps necessary to ensure compliance with NNSA security requirements prior to the interview date.