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Embedded Systems Engineer Jobs in Durham, NC (NOW HIRING)

RFA Engineering

Embedded Systems Engineer

Cary, NC · On-site

Embedded Systems Engineer This position is associated with development of electrical systems and software that control vehicle operation and functions. Development methods include C programming ...

Videndum

Embedded Firmware Engineer III

Cary, NC

$101K - $138K/yr

Embedded Firmware Engineer III Position Summary We are seeking an experienced Embedded Firmware ... You'll play a key role in developing battery management systems, lighting controls, wireless ...

Three Point Solutions

Embedded Software Engineer

Cary, NC · On-site

$60 - $64/hr

Embedded Software Engineer Client: Heavy Machine Manufacturing Company Location: Cary, NC 27513 ... Identify and improve existing processes and systems * Support development of next-gen embedded ...

US Tech Solutions

senior embedded software engineer

Cary, NC · On-site

$114K - $150K/yr

Review system-level requirements, and process them into software requirements specifications Design ... of an embedded system based on software requirements Integrate applications using components ...

GridBridge

Embedded Software Engineer

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$112K - $148K/yr

Job Summary We are seeking an Embedded Software Engineer with 2-5 years of experience to join the ... Implement MQTTbased system and supervisory communications * Support board bringup, debugging, and ...

ERMCO

Embedded Software Engineer

Raleigh, NC

$112K - $148K/yr

Job Summary We are seeking an Embedded Software Engineer with 2-5 years of experience to join the ... Implement MQTTbased system and supervisory communications * Support board bringup, debugging, and ...

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All JobsEmbedded Systems Engineer JobsEmbedded Systems Engineer Jobs in Durham, NC

Embedded Systems Engineer information

See Durham, NC salary details

$56.6K

$124.4K

$174K

How much do embedded systems engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for embedded systems engineer in Durham, NC is $124,379.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $101,000.00 and $148,100.00 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.
More about Embedded Systems Engineer jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Embedded Systems Engineer jobs in Durham, NC?

The most popular types of Embedded Systems Engineer jobs in Durham, NC are:

What job categories do people searching Embedded Systems Engineer jobs in Durham, NC look for?

The top searched job categories for Embedded Systems Engineer jobs in Durham, NC are:

What cities near Durham, NC are hiring for Embedded Systems Engineer jobs?

Cities near Durham, NC with the most Embedded Systems Engineer job openings:

Embedded Systems Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Embedded Systems Engineer job openings in Durham, NC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 88% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $124,379 per year, or $59.8 per hour.

Embedded Systems Engineer

RFA Engineering

Cary, NC • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 14 days ago

Job description

RFA Engineering (www.rfamec.com) develops embedded software and electronics for our world-class clients in the areas of precision agriculture and vehicle electrification. We are seeking an experienced candidate to become an integral part of our engineering team. The selected candidate will work with an experienced engineering staff using state-of-the-art engineering tools & processes. This position will operate onsite at our customer's engineering and manufacturing facility.
Embedded Systems Engineer
This position is associated with development of electrical systems and software that control vehicle operation and functions. Development methods include C programming language and Model Based Software Design including MATLAB/Simulink.
Responsibilities
  • Design new and enhance existing systems for robust electronics intended for on/off road vehicles and harsh environments.
  • Perform requirements capture, analysis, design, programming, debugging, hardware integration and verification.
  • Solicit and capture requirements directly from customers.
  • Create and review innovative HW/SW testing architectures and designs for challenging problems.
  • Breaking the original requirements down into the proper high level and mid-range architecture and then creating detailed design notes from the results.
  • Perform detailed unit, integration, and systems verification and validation testing using HW/SW tools.
  • Review others testing and suggest additional test cases.
  • Work closely with other project team members as needed to ensure the final combined product has compatible software, electronic hardware, and mechanical hardware which functions properly together and performs at levels specified in the test requirement.

Requirements
  • Bachelor's of Science degree in Electrical, Software, Computer Engineering or Related Field
  • Software Development experience (C, C++, Simulink)
  • Ability to interpret software requirements, electrical schematics, and test plan documentation
  • Experience with root cause analysis, machine troubleshooting, and diagnostics
  • Experience with development and debugging tools (oscilloscopes, multi-meters, logic analyzers)

Desired Attributes
  • Experience with basic electronics and hardware systems (Op Amp, FET's. Transducers, A/D Converters)
  • General machine knowledge of off-road equipment or machinery
  • Self-motivated, quick learner, with an any-problem-can-be-solved attitude
  • A strong mathematical and analytical problem solving skills
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills

Visa sponsorship is NOT available for this position.
About RFA Engineering
RFA Engineering has provided product development and engineering services to industry leading customers since 1943. Our primary focus is the development of off highway equipment including agricultural, construction, mining, recreational, industrial, and special machines. Our work includes concept development, product design, documentation, problem-solving, simulation, optimization, and testing of components, systems and complete machines. Our engineering staff is located at our Engineering Center in Minneapolis, branch office in Dubuque, IA, and at numerous customer sites throughout the U.S.
Competitive Benefits
  • Health and Dental Insurance
  • TelaDoc Healthiest You
  • Supplemental Vision Insurance
  • Company Paid Life Insurance
  • Company Paid Long-Term Disability
  • Short-term Disability
  • Retirement Savings Account (Traditional 401k & Roth 401k)
  • Flexible Spending Plan Dependent Care
  • HSA for Medical Expenses
  • Bonus Plan (Exempt Employees Only)
  • Paid Time Off (PTO)
  • Paid Holidays
  • Bereavement Leave
  • Employee Assistance Programs (EAP)
  • Education Assistance

Equal Opportunity and Veteran Friendly
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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