ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Embedded Systems Engineer Jobs in Kentucky (NOW HIRING)

Holley Performance

Systems Engineer

Bowling Green, KY · On-site

We design, engineer, and manufacture world-class products.At Holley, engineering is central to our ... Experience leading or contributing to system integration across hardware and embedded software.

Eurofins

Mechatronics Engineer

Louisville, KY · On-site

This role is ideal for an engineer who enjoys working across mechanical, electrical, controls, and ... Integrate sensors, motors, actuators, pneumatic systems, motion controls, PLCs, and embedded ...

Space Tango LLC

Software Engineer III

Lexington, KY · On-site

$49.75 - $67/hr

The Software Engineer III position serves as a technical lead responsible for the design ... Experience with robotics, automation, scientific instrumentation, or embedded systems. * Experience ...

Space Tango LLC

Software Engineer III

Lexington, KY · On-site

$49.75 - $67/hr

The Software Engineer III position serves as a technical lead responsible for the design ... Experience with robotics, automation, scientific instrumentation, or embedded systems. * Experience ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsEmbedded Systems Engineer JobsEmbedded Systems Engineer Jobs in Kentucky

Embedded Systems Engineer information

See Kentucky salary details

$54.3K

$119.2K

$166.8K

How much do embedded systems engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for embedded systems engineer in Kentucky is $119,226.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $96,800.00 and $142,000.00 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.
More about Embedded Systems Engineer jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Embedded Systems Engineer jobs in Kentucky? The most popular types of Embedded Systems Engineer jobs in Kentucky are:
What are popular job titles related to Embedded Systems Engineer jobs in Kentucky? For Embedded Systems Engineer jobs in Kentucky, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Embedded Systems Engineer jobs in Kentucky look for? The top searched job categories for Embedded Systems Engineer jobs in Kentucky are:
What cities in Kentucky are hiring for Embedded Systems Engineer jobs? Cities in Kentucky with the most Embedded Systems Engineer job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Embedded Systems Engineer jobs in KY? For Embedded Systems Engineer jobs in KY, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Embedded Systems Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Embedded Systems Engineer job openings in Kentucky as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 87% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $119,226 per year, or $57.3 per hour.
Senior R&D Embedded Design Engineer

Senior R&D Embedded Design Engineer

Car Keys Express

Louisville, KY

$113K - $148K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 6 hours ago

Car Keys Express rating

4.9

Company rating: 4.9 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Senior R amp;D Embedded Design Engineer
Purpose
Demonstrates the ability to independently lead and execute multiple product development projects with minimal to no supervision, including complex systems that integrate mixed-signal embedded systems. Responsibilities include system architecture, design, validation, and technical leadership throughout the product lifecycle. The role also involves conducting encryption and security research, and applying advanced engineering principles to solve challenging technical problems and drive innovation. .
Summary
A significant portion of the employee’s role will involve researching emerging technologies and applying those insights to the development of new products and systems. With a strong background in engineering and product development, they are adept at solving diverse technical challenges quickly and effectively. As a Senior Embedded Design Engineer, they are expected to lead and mentor junior engineers, oversee co-op projects, plan and drive strategic initiatives, collaborate with production teams, and assume management responsibilities when needed. Their experience spans the full product life cycle, product reliability, consumer electronics, and a wide range of embedded systems.

Duties Critical to Success
  • Lead the development of new R amp;D products, technologies, and strategic initiatives.
  • Develop and apply reverse-engineering tools and methodologies for integrated circuits, hardware systems, and embedded software.
  • Train, mentor, and provide technical guidance to engineers and support teams.
  • Lead technical problem-solving, project planning, and cross-functional collaboration efforts.
  • Manage and mentor co-op engineers while driving the development of production support tools and process improvements.
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Critical to Success
  • Demonstrated proficiency in the design, analysis, and implementation of RF-based devices and/or common automotive data bus networks system.
  • Strong background in embedded systems architecture, firmware design, and software development.
  • Experience developing and implementing reverse-engineering methodologies, processes, and procedures.
  • Experience with serial communication protocols, including I²C, SPI, UART, CAN, LIN, and related interfaces.
  • Expertise in schematic capture, PCB design, and layout for both internal engineering tools and commercial production products.
  • Ability to design, develop, and validate test and programming fixtures, including associated hardware and software interfaces.
  • Proven ability to lead multiple projects simultaneously from concept through production, while providing technical leadership, mentorship, and guidance to engineering team members.
  • Experience in collaborating across engineering, manufacturing, and production teams to support successful product development and deployment.
Preferred but not required
  • Knowledge of cryptography, including stream and block ciphers and hashing algorithms
  • Experience applying artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) techniques to embedded systems, algorithm development, test automation, and system optimization
  • Working knowledge of digital logic design, with experience in HDL development and modeling using VHDL and/or Verilog preferred.
Deliverables
  • Design and develop Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) and Passive Keyless Entry (PKE) systems for a broad range of vehicle platforms.
  • Develop hardware and software tools for various signal processing, protocol analysis, and behavioral characterization of analog and digital systems.
  • Design, implement, and maintain production test and programming fixtures to support manufacturing, product validation, and internal production requirements.
  • Provide technical leadership and engineering support throughout the product lifecycle, from concept development and prototyping through production release and ongoing product support.
  • Generate technical documentation, design specifications, test procedures, and validation reports to support development and production activities.
  • Collaborate with intellectual property counsel to prepare invention disclosures, support patent filings, and contribute to the protection of company innovations.
Relations to supervisory and subordinating roles within the company
Immediate Supervisor: R amp;D Manager or NPI Manager
Direct Reports: None
Job specifications, standards, and requirements
  • Bachelor's or Master's degree in Electrical Engineering, Electronics Engineering, Computer Engineering, or a related field.
  • Minimum of 7 years of industry experience with a proven track record of successfully designing and delivering embedded systems and product development projects.
  • Solid understanding of embedded hardware and firmware development, including debugging, validation, and system integration.
  • Proficiency in software development using C, C++, and Python.
  • Experience guiding products through regulatory and industry certification processes, including FCC compliance testing and Bluetooth SIG (BLE) qualification and certification.
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills
Essential Job Functions (ADA-Compliant)
The following essential job functions are fundamental to the successful performance of the Senior R amp;D Embedded Design Engineer role and cannot be eliminated or significantly modified without changing the nature of the position:
Physical Requirements
  • Ability to sit, stand, walk, or remain in a stationary position for extended periods as required by job tasks
  • Adequate hearing and vision (corrected or uncorrected) to perform job duties, including reading printed materials, viewing screens, communicating via telephone or computer, and understanding verbal communication in various settings
  • Adequate vision, including close-up work, to inspect small components and read detailed instructions
  • Sufficient auditory capacity to follow verbal instructions and hear alerts from production equipment
  • Vision abilities required include close, distance, color vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus
  • Capacity for peripheral vision and depth perception to safely navigate workspaces
  • Manual dexterity and coordination sufficient for typing, data entry, and computer use
  • Manual dexterity to handle small parts, hand tools, and assembly fixtures in a safe and efficient manner
  • Manual dexterity to work with delicate electronic components, small tools, and precision devices requiring fine motor skills
  • Ability to use and wear personal protective equipment (PPE) as required by the work environment
  • Ability to operate lab equipment as needed for purposes such as prototype testing and quality assurance
  • Ability to speak clearly and be understood to convey instructions and exchange information
  • Ability to communicate clearly and professionally, both verbally and in writing, with individuals and groups in person, via virtual meetings, and over the phone
Work Environment
  • Ability to travel to various locations, including client sites, field locations, or training venues
  • Capacity to work in diverse environments, which may include office settings, manufacturing or production areas, outdoor locations, or client facilities, sometimes with varying temperatures, noise levels, or exposure to dust, fumes, or chemicals

​

What Car Keys Express employees say

Pay

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Apply