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Embedded Systems Engineer Entry Level Jobs in California

... 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 ...

... 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 ...

... 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 ...

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 ...

Embedded Software Engineer

Sunnyvale, CA

$154K - $203K/yr

Embedded Systems Tools Engineer Ready to make a tangible impact on global aviation using cutting-edge GPS technology? Trimble is looking for a passionate problem-solver like you to join our team in ...

$138K - $182K/yr

... Embedded Software Engineers to support design, development, integration, debug, and test of embedded software for real-time systems and hardware/software platforms. Required BS in Computer ...

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Embedded Systems Engineer Entry Level information

See California salary details

$61.7K

$135.5K

$189.5K

How much do embedded systems engineer entry level jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for embedded systems engineer entry level in California is $135,476.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $110,000.00 and $161,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What types of projects and responsibilities can an entry-level Embedded Systems Engineer expect during their first year on the job?

As an entry-level Embedded Systems Engineer, you will typically work on tasks such as writing and debugging firmware, assisting with hardware integration, and running tests on embedded devices. You may also help with documentation, participate in code reviews, and support senior engineers with troubleshooting and prototyping. Most teams operate in a collaborative environment, so you can expect to interact closely with software, hardware, and QA engineers, which is a great opportunity to build your technical skills and learn industry best practices. Over time, you'll likely be given more independent project work and opportunities to contribute to design discussions as you gain experience.

What does an Embedded Systems Engineer Entry Level do?

An Embedded Systems Engineer at the entry level is responsible for assisting in the design, development, and testing of embedded systems, which are specialized computing systems that perform dedicated functions within larger devices. Typical tasks include writing and debugging software for microcontrollers or processors, working with hardware components, and collaborating with senior engineers to implement and optimize system performance. Entry-level engineers often help with troubleshooting, documentation, and learning industry-standard tools and protocols. This role is common in industries such as automotive, consumer electronics, medical devices, and telecommunications.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry-Level Embedded Systems Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry-Level Embedded Systems Engineer, you need a solid understanding of C/C++ programming, microcontroller architectures, and basic electronics, usually backed by a bachelor's degree in electrical engineering, computer engineering, or a related field. Familiarity with tools such as oscilloscopes, debuggers, integrated development environments (IDEs) like Keil or Eclipse, and version control systems like Git is typical. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective teamwork help you excel in this collaborative and detail-oriented environment. These competencies are crucial for developing reliable embedded solutions that meet technical requirements and project deadlines.

What Does an Entry-Level Embedded Systems Engineer Do?

As an entry-level embedded systems engineer, you carry out your duties under the supervision of an experienced embedded systems engineer to learn the necessary responsibilities and skills for the job. Entry-level embedded systems jobs include tasks that focus on hardware and software design and the components that go along with them. You design, troubleshoot, and test hardware and software, electronic circuits, mechanical equipment and machines, and other systems related to computers and computer equipment. Entry-level embedded systems engineer roles are usually for recent or soon-to-be graduates of a bachelor’s degree program in computer science, computer engineering, or a similar field.

What are the most commonly searched types of Embedded Systems Engineer jobs in California? The most popular types of Embedded Systems Engineer jobs in California are:
What job categories do people searching Embedded Systems Engineer Entry Level jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Embedded Systems Engineer Entry Level jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Embedded Systems Engineer Entry Level jobs? Cities in California with the most Embedded Systems Engineer Entry Level job openings:
Infographic showing various Embedded Systems Engineer Entry Level job openings in California as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 84% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $135,476 per year, or $65.1 per hour.
Embedded Systems Video Engineer

Embedded Systems Video Engineer

Apple

Cupertino, CA

$147K - $272K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Retirement

Posted yesterday


Apple rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 661 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

6th of 30 rated technology retailers


Job description

Imagine the impact you can make. A billion users will use the technologies you helped craft almost daily. At Apple, you will have the opportunity to work on products that are always leaders in the industry and occasionally, change the world! The Video Engineering group at Apple is responsible for creating the image/video core technologies used in almost all Apple products and services. In this role, you will develop embedded software for image and video compression/processing, implementing features for applications such as the iPhone/iPad Camera capture, Live Photo, AirPlay, FaceTime, Cinematic Mode, iMovie and many more on a vast variety of devices. As an embedded software engineer, you will work on the video/image subsystem, including new video compression/processing feature development, and performance and power optimizations. The applicant will be an extraordinary teammate and have a consistent track record of development for large volume product shipment.
Description
You will focus on bringing up new hardware platforms as well as working on the roadmap for future projects. You will help develop embedded software features in collaboration with multiple teams and fix related bugs. You will also work on prototyping features for future products and design, improve and maintain the software infrastructure across multiple platforms as well as write and enhance new testing tools. Multi-functional collaboration and strong team spirit is key to this role.
Preferred Qualifications
Knowledge of image or video processing technologies.
Internship or direct related experience in embedded software development.
Experience working with hardware technical reference manuals and translating requirements from them into software design.
Minimum Qualifications
BS and a minimum of 3 years of relevant industry experience.
Proficiency in C and C++ 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 communication and interpersonal skills.
Pay & Benefits
At Apple, base pay is one part of our total compensation package and is determined within a range. This provides the opportunity to progress as you grow and develop within a role. The base pay range for this role is between $147,400 and $272,100, and your base pay will depend on your skills, qualifications, experience, and location.
Apple employees also have the opportunity to become an Apple shareholder through participation in Apple's discretionary employee stock programs. Apple employees are eligible for discretionary restricted stock unit awards, and can purchase Apple stock at a discount if voluntarily participating in Apple's Employee Stock Purchase Plan. You'll also receive benefits including: Comprehensive medical and dental coverage, retirement benefits, a range of discounted products and free services, and for formal education related to advancing your career at Apple, reimbursement for certain educational expenses - including tuition. Additionally, this role might be eligible for discretionary bonuses or commission payments as well as relocation. Learn more about Apple Benefits
Note: Apple benefit, compensation and employee stock programs are subject to eligibility requirements and other terms of the applicable plan or program.

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About Apple

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Imagine what you could do here! At Apple, new ideas have a way of becoming extraordinary products, services, and customer experiences very quickly. Bring passion and dedication to your job and there's no telling what you could accomplish. Dynamic, intelligent people and inspiring, innovative technologies are the norm here. The people who work here have reinvented entire industries with all Apple Hardware products. The same real passion for innovation that goes into our products also applies to our practices strengthening our dedication to leave the world better than we found it.

Industry

Computer and electronic product manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Cupertino, CA, US

Year founded

1976