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Embedded Systems Engineer Jobs in Santa Rosa, CA

Kodiak

Software Engineer, Embedded

Bodega Bay, CA

$150K - $210K/yr

We are looking for an Embedded Software Engineer with a background in embedded systems who is passionate to ship mission critical software. The role will collaborate across hardware and software ...

Apple

Control Systems Engineer

Bodega Bay, CA

$184K - $324K/yr

... embedded C/C++ programming Experience with one or more of the following: autofocus control systems ... optical image stabilization, inertial stabilization, precision positioning systems, or machine ...

Arete Associates

NPI Test Engineer

Healdsburg, CA · On-site

$75K - $110K/yr

Support integration and testing of electro-optical, electro-mechanical, and embedded systems throughout product development. * Execute engineering test procedures for subsystem and system-level ...

Areté

NPI Test Engineer

Healdsburg, CA · On-site

$75 - $110/hr

Support integration and testing of electro‑optical, electro‑mechanical, and embedded systems throughout product development. * Execute engineering test procedures for subsystem and system‑level ...

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All JobsEmbedded Systems Engineer JobsEmbedded Systems Engineer Jobs in Santa Rosa, CA

Embedded Systems Engineer information

See Santa Rosa, CA salary details

$68.3K

$150.1K

$209.9K

How much do embedded systems engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average yearly pay for embedded systems engineer in Santa Rosa, CA is $150,086.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $121,900.00 and $178,800.00 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.
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What cities near Santa Rosa, CA are hiring for Embedded Systems Engineer jobs?

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

Embedded Systems Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Embedded Systems Engineer job openings in Santa Rosa, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 5% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $150,086 per year, or $72.2 per hour.

Software Engineer, Embedded

Kodiak

Bodega Bay, CA

$150K - $210K/yr

Full-time

Posted 29 days ago

Job description

Kodiak Robotics, Inc. was founded in 2018 and has become a leader in autonomous ground transportation committed to a safer and more efficient future for all. The company has developed an artificial intelligence (AI) powered technology stack purpose-built for commercial trucking and the public sector. The company delivers freight daily for its customers across the southern United States using its autonomous technology. In 2024, Kodiak became the first known company to publicly announce delivering a driverless semi-truck to a customer. Kodiak is also leveraging its commercial self-driving software to develop, test and deploy autonomous capabilities for the U.S. Department of Defense.

We are looking for an Embedded Software Engineer with a background in embedded systems who is passionate to ship mission critical software. The role will collaborate across hardware and software teams to design the low level devices that interface with our truck systems, ensure reliable operations of large robots, and develop cutting edge functionality to real customers. The role will bring the best of modern software engineering to ensure a high level of safety and performance.

In this role, you will:

  • Collaborate with hardware EE on design and test of high reliable hardware systems
  • Collaborate with software engineering on architecture, optimizations and reviews
  • Contribute to hardware specifications to ensure test coverage and fault detection
  • Participate in hands-on hardware bring-up in the engineering lab using analyzers and probes
  • Debug common truck functions on the vehicles (Driver interfaces, Braking, Steering)
  • Develop software for embedded platforms (x86, ARM) in C/C++
  • Develop software for sensors. Evaluation and production (Camera, Radar, Lidar, IMU)
  • Develop software for network devices, time synchronization experience a plus

What you'll bring:

  • 2+ years of software development experience, ideally within the automotive, aerospace or a related industry
  • Programming experience in C++
  • Knowledge of embedded programming platforms
  • Understanding of networking fundamentals
  • Experience with implementation and on-vehicle debugging of low level hardware buses such as I2C, CAN, SPI, and UART
  • Experience with high speed hardware communication such as PCIe and Automotive Ethernet
  • Hands on. You are just as comfortable getting your hands dirty analyzing a subsystem in the shop as when using a keyboard.
  • Great communicator. You have experience writing clear, concise, and detailed documentation
  • Passion. You are passionate about autonomous vehicles and their potential impact on humanity
  • BS or MS, or equivalent experience in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or Computer Engineering

What we offer:

  • Competitive compensation package including equity and biannual bonuses
  • Excellent Medical, Dental, and Vision plans through Kaiser Permanente, Anthem, and Guardian (including a medical plan with infertility benefits)
  • Flexible PTO and generous parental leave policies
  • Our office is centrally located in Mountain View, CA
  • Office perks: dog-friendly, free catered lunch, a fully stocked kitchen, and free EV charging
  • Long Term Disability, Short Term Disability, Life Insurance
  • Wellbeing Benefits - Headspace, One Medical, Gympass, Spring Health
  • Fidelity 401(k)
  • Commuter, FSA, Dependent Care FSA, HSA
  • Various incentive programs (referral bonuses, patent bonuses, etc.)

The pay range listed below reflects the base salary in our SF/Silicon Valley location, across several internal levels. Actual starting pay will be based on job-related factors including: work location, experience, relevant training, education, skill level and performance during interview. Total compensation at Kodiak includes base pay, equity, bonus and a competitive benefits package

California Pay Range
$150,000—$210,000 USD
At Kodiak, we strive to build a diverse community working towards our common company goals in a safe and collaborative environment where harassment of any kind is strictly prohibited. Kodiak is committed to equal opportunity employment regardless of race, ethnicity, religion, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, disability, or veteran status, or any other basis protected by applicable law.
In alignment with its business operations, Kodiak adheres to all relevant statutes, regulations, and administrative prerequisites. Accordingly, roles that carry more sensitive requirements may be limited to candidates that can satisfy additional scrutiny and eligibility for such positions may hinge on verification of a candidate's residence, U.S. person status, and/or citizenship status. Should the position require, and Kodiak determines that a candidate's residence, U.S. person status, and/or citizenship status necessitate an export license, bar the candidate from the position, or otherwise fall under national security-related restrictions, Kodiak will consider the candidate for alternative positions unaffected by such restrictions, under terms and conditions set forth at Kodiak's sole discretion, or, as an alternative, opt not to proceed with the candidate's application. If applicable, Kodiak may provide visa sponsorship for eligible candidates.
We use a third-party AI tool (Endorsed) to assist in the initial screening of applications. As part of the evaluation process, we provide Endorsed with job requirements and candidate-submitted applications. Final hiring decisions are made by our human recruitment team, and no automated system makes the ultimate decision regarding hiring. Certain features of the platform may qualify it as an Automated Employment Decision Tool (AEDT) under applicable regulations. We began using Endorsed on January 1, 2026. You can review the independent bias audit report covering our use of Endorsed [here](https://endorsed.com/local-law-144). By submitting your application, you acknowledge that your application may be processed by AI systems as part of the screening and selection process. If you have any questions or would like to request a separate review of your application, please contact careers@kodiak.ai with "Separate Review Request" in the email subject line.