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Embedded Systems Engineer Jobs in Arizona (NOW HIRING)

... embedded test protocols, and full-scale Engineering Development Models (EDM's). • Systems Engineering experience in test requirements development, test planning, test techniques, test methodologies ...

Embedded Software Engineer

Chandler, AZ · On-site

$129K - $170K/yr

Application Development Project Management Quality Assurance Business/Systems Analysis ... Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science or related discipline *3+ years of relevant ...

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Embedded Systems Engineer information

See Arizona salary details

$58.2K

$127.9K

$178.9K

How much do embedded systems engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for embedded systems engineer in Arizona is $127,924.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $103,900.00 and $152,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What Do Embedded Systems Engineers Do?

An embedded systems engineer creates the software to control electronics or machines that are different from regular computers. This software needs to run on the specific hardware it controls. Their duties also include troubleshooting and testing. Essential skills include problem-solving, critical thinking, and communication. Work is typically in an office environment with full-time business hours. Educational qualifications include a bachelor’s or master’s degree in embedded systems engineering or a related field.

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

To thrive as an Embedded Systems Engineer, you need strong proficiency in C/C++ programming, embedded hardware knowledge, and a degree in electrical engineering, computer engineering, or a related field. Familiarity with real-time operating systems (RTOS), microcontroller development platforms, and debugging tools like oscilloscopes and logic analyzers is typically required. Problem-solving, attention to detail, and effective teamwork are critical soft skills for success in this role. These skills and qualities are essential to design reliable embedded solutions that meet strict performance, safety, and efficiency requirements.

Will AI replace embedded developers?

Embedded Systems Engineers design and develop software for hardware devices, and while AI can automate certain coding tasks and optimize processes, it is unlikely to fully replace the need for human expertise in understanding hardware constraints, system integration, and troubleshooting. AI tools can assist developers but require skilled engineers to interpret and implement solutions effectively.

What do you do as an embedded systems engineer?

An embedded systems engineer designs, develops, and tests hardware and software for embedded devices such as microcontrollers and processors. They work on integrating software with hardware components, often using programming languages like C or C++, and may use tools like oscilloscopes and debuggers. This role typically requires knowledge of real-time operating systems and embedded development environments.

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 top tech companies or with significant bonuses and stock options. These roles often require advanced skills, certifications, and years of experience.

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

AspectEmbedded Systems EngineerFirmware Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or related fields; certifications like Certified Embedded Systems EngineerBachelor's in Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering; certifications like Certified Firmware Engineer
Work EnvironmentDesigning and developing embedded hardware/software for devices like automotive, medical, consumer electronicsWriting low-level code to optimize firmware for microcontrollers and embedded devices
Industry UsageUsed across automotive, aerospace, consumer electronics, industrial automationPrimarily in consumer electronics, IoT devices, and embedded hardware products

Both roles focus on embedded development but differ in scope. Embedded Systems Engineers work on both hardware and software integration, while Firmware Engineers specialize in writing low-level code for device firmware. Understanding these distinctions helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

What are some common challenges an Embedded Systems Engineer faces when integrating hardware and software components?

Embedded Systems Engineers often encounter challenges when ensuring that hardware and software components work seamlessly together. These can include dealing with limited memory and processing power, timing constraints, and real-time performance requirements. Troubleshooting issues that arise from hardware-software interactions—such as driver compatibility, signal integrity, or power management—requires strong problem-solving skills and close collaboration with hardware designers and software developers. Engineers must frequently debug at both the hardware and code level, making attention to detail and cross-disciplinary communication essential in this role.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior engineers in specialized fields such as software engineering, data engineering, and certain executive or management roles can earn $300,000 or more annually. High compensation often requires extensive experience, advanced skills, and sometimes leadership responsibilities or working in high-demand industries like technology, finance, or aerospace.

What are Embedded Systems Engineers?

Embedded Systems Engineers are professionals who design, develop, and maintain embedded systems—specialized computing systems that perform dedicated functions within larger mechanical or electrical systems. These engineers work with both hardware and software, often programming microcontrollers or microprocessors to control devices like automobiles, medical equipment, consumer electronics, and industrial machines. Their expertise ensures devices are efficient, reliable, and optimized for specific tasks, making embedded systems a crucial part of modern technology.
What are the most commonly searched types of Embedded Systems Engineer jobs in Arizona? The most popular types of Embedded Systems Engineer jobs in Arizona are:
What are popular job titles related to Embedded Systems Engineer jobs in Arizona? For Embedded Systems Engineer jobs in Arizona, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Embedded Systems Engineer jobs in Arizona look for? The top searched job categories for Embedded Systems Engineer jobs in Arizona are:
What cities in Arizona are hiring for Embedded Systems Engineer jobs? Cities in Arizona with the most Embedded Systems Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Embedded Systems Engineer job openings in Arizona as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 91% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $127,924 per year, or $61.5 per hour.
Cyber Systems Engineer - Level 3

Cyber Systems Engineer - Level 3

Northrop Grumman Corporation

Chandler, AZ • On-site

$56.50 - $69.25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Life, PTO

Posted 24 days ago


Northrop Grumman rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 349 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

109th of 527 rated manufacturers


Job description

RELOCATION ASSISTANCE: Relocation assistance may be available
CLEARANCE REQUIRED FOR START: No
CLEARANCE TYPE: None
TRAVEL: Yes, 10% of the TimeDescription
At Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work - and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible. Our employees are not only part of history, they're making history.
Northrop Grumman's Space Sector is seeking a Cyber Systems Engineer - Level 3 to join our team in Chandler, AZ.
The Principal Systems Security Engineer leads the design, development, and implementation of comprehensive protection strategies for advanced missile, guidance, and seeker systems. The role integrates Anti-Tamper, Cybersecurity, Program Protection, and Cybersecurity Supply-Chain Risk Management to protect sensitive technologies and ensure survivability against capable nation-state adversaries.
This position requires technical depth in secure embedded system design, hands-on experience conducting hardware/firmware/software security assessments, and the ability to guide teams in developing defensible and compliant SSE solutions.
Essential Functions/Key Responsibilities
  • Define, lead, and implement embedded system security architecture (hardware, firmware, software) for missile/weapon systems, ensuring integrated Cybersecurity, Anti-Tamper, Program Protection coverage across the system lifecycle.
  • Assess and mitigate system security threats and risks (vulnerabilities, supply-chain, hardware/firmware/software) throughout development, production, and sustainment phases.
  • Decompose and allocate system security requirements (AT, Cyber, Exportability, Supply Chain Risk Management, where applicable) and integrate them into system requirements, design specifications, and test plans.
  • Conduct trade-studies and countermeasure analyses to balance security, cost, performance, and schedule constraints; recommend and implement appropriate security controls (anti-tamper, encryption, secure hardware/firmware, obfuscation, supply-chain mitigation, etc.).
  • Develop and maintain Program Protection Plans (PPP), Security Classification Guides (SCG), Security Plans (SSP), AT Plans, and other required program security documentation; coordinate with program management, engineering, and customer stakeholders.
  • Support Verification & Validation (V&V), security testing, configuration management, and approval of COTS/GOTS/FOSS components per DoD and program policies; ensure compliance with relevant frameworks (e.g., NIST SP 800-160, RMF, etc.).
  • Provide technical leadership within the SSE/AT/Cyber domain, and interface with cross-functional teams (hardware, software, test, program management, sustainment) to ensure coordinated security posture.

Basic Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree with 5 years of professional experience Master's degree with 3 years of professional experience
  • Demonstrated experience in embedded systems security (hardware/firmware/software) for defense weapon systems, including threat analysis, risk mitigation, secure design, and implementation.
  • Ability to obtain DoD Secret security clearance
  • US Citizenship
  • Solid understanding of DoD security practices, frameworks and processes; familiarity with Program Protection, CPI (Critical Program Information) identification and protection, threat/vulnerability analysis, and risk management.
  • Good communication skills; ability to work across teams and interface with engineers, program managers, and stakeholders.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Prior experience in development / deployment of Anti-Tamper technologies, secure hardware/firmware/design hardening, supply chain risk mitigation, exportability analysis, and secure design for classified programs.
  • Experience authoring or contributing to Program Protection Plans (PPP), Security Classification Guides (SCG), System Security Plans (SSP), AT Plans, and other program security documents.
  • Familiarity with regulatory/security frameworks (e.g., NIST SP 800-160, RMF/DoD 8140, DoD 5200.39 or other AT guidance) and prior participation in system accreditation or authorization processes.
  • Demonstrated leadership or mentorship experience; ability to guide junior staff; experience in cross-discipline integration (hardware/firmware/software/supply chain/test).

Curious about all the exciting developments with the Northrop Grumman Space Sector? Click the link below:
https://www.northropgrumman.com/space
Working at Northrop Grumman is more than just a paycheck. We offer a comprehensive Total Rewards and benefits package designed to help you thrive at work and in life. For more information on our Total Rewards package, please visit our Total Rewards site.
Primary Level Salary Range: $108,200.00 - $162,400.00
The above salary range represents a general guideline; however, Northrop Grumman considers a number of factors when determining base salary offers such as the scope and responsibilities of the position and the candidate's experience, education, skills and current market conditions.
Depending on the position, employees may be eligible for overtime, shift differential, and a discretionary bonus in addition to base pay. Annual bonuses are designed to reward individual contributions as well as allow employees to share in company results. Employees in Vice President or Director positions may be eligible for Long Term Incentives. In addition, Northrop Grumman provides a variety of benefits including health insurance coverage, life and disability insurance, savings plan, Company paid holidays and paid time off (PTO) for vacation and/or personal business.
The application period for the job is estimated to be 20 days from the job posting date. However, this timeline may be shortened or extended depending on business needs and the availability of qualified candidates.
Northrop Grumman is an Equal Opportunity Employer, making decisions without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, or any other protected class. For our complete EEO and pay transparency statement, please visit http://www.northropgrumman.com/EEO. U.S. Citizenship is required for all positions with a government clearance and certain other restricted positions.

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About Northrop Grumman

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work - and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible.

Industry

Space research administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Falls Church, VA, US

Year founded

1939