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Embedded Systems Engineer Jobs in Birmingham, AL

FPGA Development Engineer

Birmingham, AL · On-site

$121K - $156K/yr

PURPOSE We are seeking a mid-career FPGA Development Engineer to join our growing hardware ... Familiarity with embedded systems, processors, and board-level debugging tools. * Experience with ...

Senior Controls Engineer

Birmingham, AL

$90K - $120K/yr

The Senior Controls Engineer designs, develops, and implements advanced control systems that ... Exposure to embedded systems or edge-device software architecture. * Experience with embedded ...

The Senior Controls Engineer designs, develops, and implements advanced control systems that ... Exposure to embedded systems or edge-device software architecture. * Experience with embedded ...

The Design Engineer II reports to the Engineering Manager and supports product development ... Embedded Systems: Prior experience with embedded applications and sensors is a plus. Following ...

The Design Engineer II reports to the Engineering Manager and supports product development ... Embedded Systems: Prior experience with embedded applications and sensors is a plus. Following ...

C++ Tutor

Birmingham, AL · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Emphasizes understanding memory management principles and connects C++ programming to operating systems, embedded systems, and high-performance computing applications. * Curriculum Awareness ...

We're working to develop reusable, safe, and low-cost space vehicles and systems within a culture ... Hands-on experience with embedded software testing and test development * Must be a U.S. citizen or ...

... embedded software/firmware applications to support payload systems for space applications. Develops and supervises the development of detailed engineering documents, test and validation plans ...

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Embedded Systems Engineer information

See Birmingham, AL salary details

$58.6K

$128.7K

$179.9K

How much do embedded systems engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average yearly pay for embedded systems engineer in Birmingham, AL is $128,651.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $104,500.00 and $153,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an embedded systems engineer?

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 does an embedded systems engineer 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.

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 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.

Are embedded systems engineers in demand?

Embedded systems engineers are in high demand due to the growth of IoT, automotive, healthcare, and consumer electronics industries. They typically require skills in programming languages like C and C++, and knowledge of hardware design, with job opportunities available across various sectors worldwide.

What job categories do people searching Embedded Systems Engineer jobs in Birmingham, AL look for?

The top searched job categories for Embedded Systems Engineer jobs in Birmingham, AL are:

What cities near Birmingham, AL are hiring for Embedded Systems Engineer jobs?

Cities near Birmingham, AL with the most Embedded Systems Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Embedded Systems Engineer job openings in Birmingham, AL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 5% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $128,651 per year, or $61.9 per hour.

$121K - $156K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 8 days ago


Job description

PURPOSE

We are seeking a mid-career FPGA Development Engineer to join our growing hardware development team. The ideal candidate has hands-on experience designing, implementing, and verifying complex digital logic using Xilinx FPGAs and the Vivado tool suite, along with a strong background in simulation and verification methodologies. You will work closely with cross-functional teams to architect, develop, and optimize FPGA-based solutions for high-performance embedded systems.

ROLE AND RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Design, implement, and integrate FPGA logic using Xilinx devices and the Vivado Design Suite.
  • Develop RTL (VHDL/Verilog/SystemVerilog) for high-performance, reliable digital systems.
  • Perform simulation, verification, and debugging using industry-standard tools (e.g., Vivado Simulator, ModelSim/Questa, Xilinx logic analyzers).
  • Optimize designs for timing closure, resource utilization, and power consumption.
  • Collaborate with firmware, hardware, and systems engineering teams to define requirements and ensure seamless system integration.
  • Create comprehensive design documentation, test plans, and verification reports.
  • Support bring-up, validation, and troubleshooting on real hardware platforms

PREFERRED SKILLS, QUALIFICATIONS AND EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS

  • Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or related field.
  • 5 – 7 years of professional FPGA development experience.
  • Strong proficiency with Xilinx FPGA families (e.g., Zynq, Ultrascale/Ultrascale+).
  • Demonstrated experience with the Xilinx Vivado Design Suite, including synthesis, implementation, timing analysis, and IP integration.
  • Experience with RTL design in VHDL or Verilog.
  • Hands-on simulation and verification experience (Vivado Simulator, QuestaSim, ModelSim, etc.).
  • Strong understanding of digital design fundamentals (clocking, resets, CDC, pipelining, state machines).
  • Familiarity with version control systems (Git, SVN).
  • Experience with SystemVerilog or UVM-based verification.
  • Familiarity with embedded systems, processors, and board-level debugging tools.
  • Experience with high-speed interfaces (PCIe, DDR, SERDES, Ethernet).
  • Python, TCL, or shell scripting for automation and tool flows.
  • Experience working in Agile or structured development environments.

ADDITIONAL NOTES

What We Offer

  • Competitive salary and benefits package
  • Opportunities for technical growth and ownership of complex FPGA designs
  • Collaborative team environment with modern tools and development practices