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Embedded Systems Engineer Jobs in Santa Ana, CA (NOW HIRING)

Electrical Systems Engineer

Monrovia, CA · On-site

$70K - $110K/yr

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

Showing results 21-40

Embedded Systems Engineer information

See Santa Ana, CA salary details

$65K

$142.8K

$199.8K

How much do embedded systems engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for embedded systems engineer in Santa Ana, CA is $142,844.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $116,000.00 and $170,100.00 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.

What are the most commonly searched types of Embedded Systems Engineer jobs in Santa Ana, CA?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Embedded Systems Engineer job openings in Santa Ana, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 10% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $142,844 per year, or $68.7 per hour.

Senior Defensive Security Engineer - Embedded Systems

Silvus Technologies

Los Angeles, CA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 10 days ago


Job description

THE COMPANY
Silvus Technologies, a leading provider of advanced MANET and MIMO communications systems, is reshaping mesh network technology for mission-critical applications - on the ground, in the air and at sea. Its battle-proven StreamCaster family of MANET radios and proprietary MN-MIMO waveform provides the vital communications link for defense, law enforcement and public safety agencies around the world, and in the toughest operational environments.
With deep roots in DARPA research, Silvus Technologies develops world-class advanced communications technologies that are reshaping the tactical communications landscape. From pure line-of-sight to extreme non-line-of-sight, Silvus radios form a self-healing, self-forming mesh network, enabling secure and reliable connectivity, including video and high-bandwidth data.
Silvus Technologies is a wholly owned subsidiary of Motorola Solutions, Inc.
Would you like to join an incredibly talented group of people, doing very challenging work, with the prime directive of "Keeping Our Heroes Connected"?
THE OPPORTUNITY
Silvus is seeking a Senior Defensive Security Engineer - Embedded Systems who will report to the Director of Software Engineering on the Software Engineering team. The successful individual in this role will focus on protecting our embedded systems from potential threats by designing and implementing robust security measures, conducting security assessments, and ensuring compliance with industry standards.
This position is based at Silvus Technologies' headquarters in the heart of vibrant West Los Angeles, CA and is on a hybrid schedule; a minimum of 3 days onsite per week is expected. On-site days are Mondays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays.
The following is a list of at least some of the current essential job functions of the position. Management may assign or reassign duties and responsibilities at any time at its discretion.
ROLE AND RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Design and implement Linux-based security architectures for embedded systems, focusing on secure boot, and kernel hardening.
  • Develop and enforce Linux security features, including iptables, netfilter, and auditd for intrusion detection and prevention.
  • Conduct security assessments and audits of Linux-based embedded systems to identify and mitigate vulnerabilities.
  • Integrate Linux security best practices into the development lifecycle (DevSecOps), emphasizing secure coding and configuration management.
  • Manage vulnerabilities in Linux-based embedded systems, including timely patching and kernel updates.
  • Train teams on Linux security practices, including privilege management, file system permissions, and container security.
  • Participate in incident response planning and execution for Linux-based embedded systems.
  • Implement Linux-native encryption and authentication mechanisms (e.g., dm-crypt, OpenSSL, PAM) for secure communications.
  • Perform other related duties of which the above are representative.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS
  • High School diploma or GED plus 5 years of experience in cybersecurity, with at least 2 years of experience in defensive security roles focused on Linux based systems (e.g., penetration testing, red teaming, vulnerability assessment).
  • Expertise in Linux network security, secure coding, or embedded systems security.
  • Coding/scripting in embedded C/C++ for Linux environments.
  • Familiarity with Linux security tools like auditd, Lynis, or vulnerability scanners.
  • Security Clearance: Active U.S. Government SECRET clearance or the ability to obtain one within 15 months of hire.
  • Must be a U.S. Citizen due to clients under U.S. government contracts.
  • All employment is contingent upon the successful clearance of a background check and drug test.

PREFERRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES
  • Bachelor or Master's degree in Cybersecurity, Computer Science, Information Technology, or related field.
  • One or more of the following certifications: CISSP, CISM, GIAC Security Expert (GSE), CompTIA Security+, or Linux-specific (e.g., LFCS, RHCE).
  • Hands-on experience implementing Linux security controls, such as SELinux, AppArmor, or iptables, and conducting security assessments.
  • Proficiency in Linux security frameworks, such as CIS Benchmarks, NIST SP 800-53, or STIGs.
  • Broad experience with Linux secure development lifecycle (SDL) practices.
  • Knowledge of Linux threat intelligence and threat modeling.
  • Familiarity with Linux container security (e.g., Docker, Podman) and cloud environments.
  • Strong communication skills to explain Linux security concepts to technical and non-technical audiences.
  • Collaborative teamwork with cross-functional groups.
  • Experience securing resource-constrained Linux-based embedded systems.
  • Understanding of real-time Linux systems and their security implications.
  • Knowledge of Linux hardware security integration, such as TPM or Secure Enclave.
  • Demonstrated experience designing secure Linux communication systems with encryption, authentication, and key management.
  • Familiarity with mobile ad-hoc networking security on Linux platforms.

WORKING CONDITIONS & PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
  • Office environment.
  • While performing the duties of this job, the employee is required to do the following:
    • Lift equipment up to 20 lbs. for the set-up of demonstrations or testing.
    • Perform bending and reaching movements to place items on lower and higher shelves.
    • Kneeling or squatting to access lower shelves.
    • Walking/Moving in the labs.

COMPENSATION
The pay range is NOT a guarantee. It is based on market research and peer data, and will vary depending on the candidate's experience and qualifications.
CA Pay Range
$140,000-$200,000 USD
Consistent with Motorola Solutions values and applicable law, we provide the following information to promote pay transparency and equity. Pay within this range varies and depends on job-related knowledge, skills, and experience. The actual offer will be based on the individual candidate.
NOTE - As a US Federal Contractor, Silvus Technologies requires that ALL candidates being considered for employment for any position (regardless of level) MUST be a U.S. Person (permanent resident or citizen). Stricter U.S. Citizen ONLY requirements (needed for some Engineering or R&D roles) will be included in the Required Qualifications section of the posted position. This does NOT apply to international positions; only job postings for positions located in the US.
Motorola Solutions is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion or belief, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status or any other legally-protected characteristic.
We are proud of our people-first and community-focused culture, empowering every Motorolan to be their most authentic self and to do their best work to deliver on the promise of a safer world. If you'd like to join our team but feel that you don't quite meet all of the preferred skills, we'd still love to hear why you think you'd be a great addition to our team.
We're committed to providing an inclusive and accessible recruiting experience for candidates with disabilities, or other physical or mental health conditions. To request an accommodation, please complete this Reasonable Accommodations Form so we can assist you.