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Embedded Systems Engineer Jobs in Carlsbad, CA (NOW HIRING)

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Senior Embedded Systems Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$120K - $200K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

About this position We are looking for a hands-on Senior Embedded Systems Engineer to join our team. You will work in the domain where software meets hardware, from troubleshooting hardware during ...

STR

Embedded Systems Emulation Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$110K - $151K/yr

STR is hiring an Embedded Systems Emulation Engineer to join our multidisciplinary team of researchers and engineers developing cutting-edge technologies with significant and immediate impact on our ...

STR

Embedded Systems Emulation Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$110K - $151K/yr

STR is hiring an Embedded Systems Emulation Engineer to join our multidisciplinary team of researchers and engineers developing cutting-edge technologies with significant and immediate impact on our ...

STR

Embedded Systems Emulation Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$110K - $151K/yr

STR is hiring an Embedded Systems Emulation Engineer to join our multidisciplinary team of researchers and engineers developing cutting-edge technologies with significant and immediate impact on our ...

STR

Embedded Systems Emulation Engineer

Carlsbad, CA · On-site

$110K - $151K/yr

STR is hiring an Embedded Systems Emulation Engineer to join our multidisciplinary team of researchers and engineers developing cutting-edge technologies with significant and immediate impact on our ...

Zoox

Embedded Software Engineer - Power Systems

San Diego, CA · On-site

$155K - $190K/yr

  • Medical

  • Life

  • PTO

Zoox is looking for an embedded software engineer to join our Firmware Power Systems team. Responsibilities for embedded software development for the Power management functions and sub-systems of the ...

Leidos

Embedded Software Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$139K - $183K/yr

In this role, the Embedded Software Engineer will build high-performance software to meet extreme system requirements. They will be responsible for designing and implementing components to support ...

Leidos

Embedded Software Engineer

San Diego, CA

$139K - $183K/yr

In this role, the Embedded Software Engineer will build high-performance software to meet extreme system requirements. They will be responsible for designing and implementing components to support ...

Innoflight

Senior Embedded Software Engineer - RUST

San Diego, CA · On-site

$170K - $190K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

You'll work closely with Systems, Hardware, and FPGA teams to deliver secure, rugged, and reliable Low-SWaP solutions for aerospace applications. In addition, you'll provide mentorship and SME-level ...

Apple

Embedded ISP Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

Apple's Camera Firmware team is seeking an outstanding firmware engineer to help drive innovative ... Build drivers for advanced image processing pipelines in embedded systems, working with the latest ...

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All JobsEmbedded Systems Engineer JobsEmbedded Systems Engineer Jobs in Carlsbad, CA

Embedded Systems Engineer information

See Carlsbad, CA salary details

$64.8K

$142.4K

$199.2K

How much do embedded systems engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for embedded systems engineer in Carlsbad, CA is $142,402.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $115,700.00 and $169,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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 integration, with job opportunities expected to increase as embedded technology becomes more widespread.

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 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.
More about Embedded Systems Engineer jobs
What cities near Carlsbad, CA are hiring for Embedded Systems Engineer jobs? Cities near Carlsbad, CA with the most Embedded Systems Engineer job openings:
Embedded Systems Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Embedded Systems Engineer job openings in Carlsbad, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 5% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $142,402 per year, or $68.5 per hour.

Sr Embedded Systems Engineer I

Element Biosciences

San Diego, CA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 20 days ago

Job description

At Element Biosciences, we are passionate about our mission to empower the scientific community with more freedom and flexibility to accelerate our collective impact on humanity. We have built a highly efficient product-driven organization where employees can learn, grow, and thrive in a challenging but encouraging environment. We are committed to scientific integrity, collegiality, honesty, objectivity, and openness.

We are seeking a Senior Embedded Systems Engineer who will play a pivotal role in the development of our high-performance instrument platform. This is an incredible opportunity for someone who is passionate about embedded system development. We are looking for candidates with a solid background in embedded system development and testing. This role will report to Senior Director of Embedded Systems and will be a San Diego based role.

If you possess the following and want to make a meaningful impact, we invite you to explore this role.

Essential Functions and Responsibilities:

  • Perform requirements gathering and system specification writing activities for embedded platform and applications
  • Design, implement and validate embedded Linux application software with real-time communication and processing functionalities according to requirements of system specs
  • Integrate Linux Kernel, BSP, bootloader, hardware drivers for required functionality
  • Conduct system bring-up activities. Lead SW/FW functionality debugging in system
  • Conduct performance profiling on data processing tasks in embedded SoCs
  • Communicate, collaborate with embedded system and software developers on validation and debugging activities.

Education and Experience:

  • Minimum bachelor's degree in electrical engineering, computer engineering or computer sciences
  • At least 3 years industry experience in embedded firmware or embedded system development
  • Strong Hands-on experience with embedded system prototype bring-up
  • Practical experience on embedded Linux system configuration, memory management and driver integration
  • Proficient in coding with C and C++; have practical experience with corresponding debugging tools / methodology
  • Experience with the development and execution of automated tests and performance profiler
  • Good knowledge of electronic components including FPGA, embedded processors/SoCs is a plus
  • Experience in GPU or NPU kernel FW development is a plus
  • Strong problem solving and debugging skills: analyze and investigate test failures, errors, build issues, and be able to accurately drive issues to completion

Physical Requirements: 

  • Ability to lift up to 20 pounds

Location:

  • San Diego - onsite

Travel: 

  • Up to 5% - or as opportunity arises

Job Type:

  • Full-time, Exempt

Base Compensation Pay Range:

  • $XX- $XX


 

In addition to base compensation noted above, you will be eligible for stock options, discretionary annual bonus, no cost health insurance plans, 401k with company match, and flexible paid time off. 

Please note: Base compensation will depend on multiple factors, including geographic location, qualifications, and experience. 

We foster an environment such that all people are afforded the freedom to pursue their passions without regard to race, color, religion, national or ethnic origin, gender (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, disability, veteran status or any other characteristics protected by law.

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