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

Architect complex embedded systems and design electronic hardware from concept through production ... Engineering, Computer Engineering, Systems Engineering , or related technical field * 5+ years of ...

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Embedded Systems Engineer information

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$68.2K

$149.7K

$209.4K

How much do embedded systems engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for embedded systems engineer in Pasadena, CA is $149,739.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $121,600.00 and $178,300.00 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 are the most commonly searched types of Embedded Systems Engineer jobs in Pasadena, CA?

The most popular types of Embedded Systems Engineer jobs in Pasadena, CA are:

What are popular job titles related to Embedded Systems Engineer jobs in Pasadena, CA?

For Embedded Systems Engineer jobs in Pasadena, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Embedded Systems Engineer jobs in Pasadena, CA look for?

The top searched job categories for Embedded Systems Engineer jobs in Pasadena, CA are:

What cities near Pasadena, CA are hiring for Embedded Systems Engineer jobs?

Cities near Pasadena, CA with the most Embedded Systems Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Embedded Systems Engineer job openings in Pasadena, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 88% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $149,739 per year, or $72 per hour.

Embedded Systems Engineer - Egofold (AI Ranch)

Snail Games USA

Beverly Hills, CA • Hybrid

$130K - $170K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 4 hours ago


Job description

Embedded Systems Engineer – Egofold (AI Ranch)

About Snail Games USASnail Games strives to create the new high bar for gameplay experience in online gaming. We have been a global developer and publisher of digital entertainment since 2009 and are committed to pushing the boundaries of the industry.

About EgofoldEgofold is an AI-focused product initiative incubated within Snail Games, exploring scalable systems for intelligent agents and AI-driven workflows, with roots in interactive and game-adjacent applications. The project is currently in an early product-definition phase, focused on clarifying market positioning, product direction, and long-term potential.

We are seeking an Embedded Systems Engineer to lead hardware bring-up, platform integration, and real-world system development for AI-enabled edge platforms. The role will begin with off-the-shelf embedded and robotics hardware (e.g., edge compute modules, development kits, sensor platforms), with the potential to evolve into more bespoke hardware and system design as the architecture matures.

You will operate at the boundary of embedded Linux systems, hardware integration, and AI orchestration. You help define how intelligent agents transition from simulation and software into reliable physical platforms. This role is ideal for an engineer who enjoys owning messy integration problems, validating hardware platforms, and building robust, extensible foundations for future intelligent systems.

Job Type: Full-TimeLocation: Hybrid - Culver City, CA (4 days per week in office)

Responsibilities

  • Bring up and evaluate off-the-shelf embedded and edge compute platforms (e.g., Jetson-class systems, sensor kits, development boards).

  • Integrate sensors, actuators, and communication interfaces into cohesive embedded systems.

  • Develop and maintain embedded Linux systems, including device configuration, driver integration, and performance validation.

  • Implement communication layers between embedded hardware and higher-level AI systems.

  • Optimize latency, reliability, and deterministic behavior in constrained hardware environments.

  • Design and implement fault-tolerant mechanisms and safe system states.

  • Own end-to-end hardware/software integration for prototypes and demonstrators.

  • Build test harnesses and validation tools to support rapid iteration.

  • Contribute to architectural decisions that support modularity and future bespoke system expansion.

Minimum Requirements

  • 4+ years experience in embedded systems or platform integration engineering.

  • Strong proficiency in C++ and experience working in embedded Linux environments.

  • Experience bringing up hardware platforms and debugging hardware/software integration issues.

  • Familiarity with communication protocols such as CAN, UART, SPI, I2C, or Ethernet.

  • Understanding of real-time constraints and system-level debugging.

  • Experience working with physical hardware (motors, sensors, controllers, edge compute systems).

  • Strong systems-thinking mindset and comfort working in early-stage environments.

Nice to Have

  • Experience with NVIDIA Jetson or similar edge AI platforms.

  • Familiarity with ROS or other robotics middleware.

  • Experience with hardware-in-the-loop testing or simulation-to-real workflows.

  • Experience integrating machine learning models into embedded systems.

  • Background in robotics, applied AI startups, or hardware-focused R&D teams.

Salary Range: $130,000 – $170,000 Annually

Why Join the Snail Games USA Team?

  • True focus on work/life balance

  • Paid company holidays, vacation, and separate sick leave

  • Medical, dental, vision, and Life/LTD

  • 401k with company match

Work Authorization Requirements

Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States at the time of application. This position does not offer visa sponsorship now or in the future (including H-1B).

Additional Information

As part of the Company’s activities in video game development, publishing, and short-form video content creation, certain projects, discussions, or creative materials may include themes, visuals, language, or subject matter that some individuals could find mature, violent, sexual, graphic, or otherwise sensitive in nature (collectively referred to as “Mature Content”). Examples may include, but are not limited to, depictions or descriptions of combat, violence, adult themes or relationships, suggestive or satirical humor, or strong language. Employees are expected to engage with such material in a professional and creative context as part of their job duties.