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Embedded Systems Programmer Jobs in Pennsylvania

Embedded Systems Architect

PA · On-site

$113K - $165K/yr

Work with product marketing and system engineering teams to develop product specifications driving hardware and firmware development. * Guide implementation of RTOS-based and bare-metal embedded ...

The Embedded Systems Department is dedicated to developing embedded hardware and software solutions ... This position may be filled as either a Research and Development Engineer or a non-tenure Research ...

The Embedded Systems Department is dedicated to developing embedded hardware and software solutions ... This position may be filled as either a Research and Development Engineer or a non-tenure Research ...

Embedded Engineer (QA)

Philadelphia, PA · On-site

$125K - $165K/yr

Info Way Solutions is seeking an experienced Embedded QA Engineer with a strong background in embedded systems testing and expertise in the cable and networking domains. The ideal candidate will ...

Real-Time Embedded Software Engineer

Pittsburgh, PA · Hybrid

$127K - $168K/yr

Our work has a profound impact on software systems across both government and industry. You'll ... SEI is seeking an enthusiastic experienced real-time embedded engineer to work on safety-critical ...

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Embedded Systems Programmer information

See Pennsylvania salary details

$5

$31

$35

How much do embedded systems programmer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for embedded systems programmer in Pennsylvania is $31.64, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $26.97 and $35.67 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an embedded systems programmer?

Embedded systems programmers are software developers who design, write, and test code that runs on embedded devices, such as microcontrollers, sensors, and other hardware with dedicated functions. Unlike general-purpose computers, embedded systems have limited resources and are optimized for specific tasks, often operating in real-time environments. These programmers use languages like C or C++ and work closely with hardware engineers to ensure seamless integration between software and hardware components. Their work is crucial in industries such as automotive, consumer electronics, medical devices, and industrial automation.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an embedded systems programmer?

To thrive as an Embedded Systems Programmer, you need strong proficiency in C/C++, hardware interfacing, and a solid understanding of computer architecture, often supported by a degree in computer engineering or a related field. Familiarity with real-time operating systems (RTOS), debugging tools like JTAG, and version control systems such as Git is typically required. Problem-solving, attention to detail, and effective communication help you collaborate with multidisciplinary teams and address complex technical challenges. These skills ensure the development of reliable, efficient embedded solutions that meet stringent performance and safety requirements.

What are some common challenges faced by embedded systems programmers when working on cross-functional teams?

Embedded Systems Programmers often collaborate closely with hardware engineers, software developers, and quality assurance teams. A common challenge is ensuring that the software integrates seamlessly with custom hardware, which may require troubleshooting low-level issues and adapting to evolving hardware specifications. Effective communication and documentation are key, as misunderstandings can lead to delays or system malfunctions. Embracing agile methodologies and regular sync-ups can help address these challenges while fostering a collaborative team environment.

What is the difference between Embedded Systems Programmer vs Firmware Engineer?

AspectEmbedded Systems Programmer

Required CredentialsTypically requires a degree in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or related fields; certifications like Certified Embedded Systems Engineer are common.
Work EnvironmentWorks on developing software for embedded hardware devices, often in industries like automotive, consumer electronics, and industrial automation.
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by companies designing embedded products, with a focus on low-level programming and hardware interaction.
Common Search & Comparison IntentPeople compare to Firmware Engineer due to overlapping skills in embedded development and hardware interfacing.

Both roles involve embedded development, but Embedded Systems Programmers focus more on software design for embedded hardware, while Firmware Engineers specialize in writing low-level firmware that directly interacts with hardware components. The roles often overlap, but the emphasis differs slightly depending on the project and industry.

Infographic showing various Embedded Systems Programmer job openings in Pennsylvania as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 86% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $65,817 per year, or $31.6 per hour.

Embedded Systems Architect

PA • On-site


Eaton
Electrical Equipment, Appliance, and Component Manufacturing • 10K+ employees

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 226 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

175th of 544 rated manufacturers

People enjoy working here

Good employer

Recommended by students


$113K - $165K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement

Re-posted 5 days ago


Job description

Eaton is seeking an experienced and innovative Embedded Systems Architect to lead the architecture, design, and development for next-generation Electronic Trip Units (ETUs) used in low-voltage and medium-voltage circuit breakers. This role will be responsible for defining robust, scalable embedded system architectures that enable advanced protection, monitoring and digital connectivity features across Eaton's circuit protection portfolio.
The successful candidate will collaborate closely with product management, systems engineering, hardware, software, test, manufacturing teams and suppliers across the globe in delivering innovative solutions that meet customer requirements, regulatory standards, cybersecurity expectations, and business objectives. This position requires deep expertise in embedded systems, real-time control systems, and safety-critical product development.
This position is based out of Moon Township, PA and offers hybrid work opportunites. Relocation assistance is available to those within the US/PR.
The expected annual salary range for this role is $113000 - $165000 a year.
Please note the salary information shown above is a general guideline only. Salaries are based upon candidate skills, experience, and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
What you'll do:
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:
  • Define robust, modular system architectures for Electronic Trip Units scaling across multiple circuit breaker product families.
  • Work with product marketing and system engineering teams to develop product specifications driving hardware and firmware development.
  • Guide implementation of RTOS-based and bare-metal embedded products leading design decisions across hardware and firmware domains.
  • Establish design standards, development practices, verification methodologies and champion deployment across teams.
  • Performs technical research and leads prototype activities enabling concept finalization, technology selection inline with product roadmap.
  • Mentor junior engineers and drive standard development practices with continuous improvement mindset.
  • Address product quality, customer and production issues collaborating with other functional groups as necessary.

DIMENSIONS:
  • Sales volumes - through new product development and maintenance of existing products
  • Employees supervised (indirect) - provide technical leadership to design teams
  • Improve time to market - utilize best design practices, platforming, global designs

Qualifications:
BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:
  • Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, or related field.
  • 7+ years of experience in embedded systems development for industrial applications .
  • 5+ years in a technical leadership, lead engineer, or architect role with strong background in real-time embedded firmware and hardware/software integration.
  • Relocation is offered for this position. Candidates will be expected to reside within 50 miles of Moon Township, PA.
  • Eaton will not consider applicants for employment immigration sponsorship or support for this position. This means that Eaton will not support any CPT, OPT, or STEM OPT plans, F-1 to H-1B, H-1B cap registration, O-1, E-3, TN status, I-485 job portability, etc.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:
  • Experience with Electronic Trip Units, protective relays, or power management systems.
  • Familiarity with functional safety standards and reliability engineering.
  • Experience working within global engineering organizations.
  • Experience with Six-Sigma quality tools. Design for Six Sigma green belt training or certification.
  • Strong analytical skills covering multiple areas of engineering (electrical design, mechanical design, test, simulation, industrialization).
  • Experience defining system verification strategies including simulation, HIL testing, fault injection, and validation testing.
  • Support failure analysis and root-cause investigations for complex system issues.

Skills:
PROFESSIONAL SKILLS:
  • Strong cross functional collaboration driving architecture and design meeting customer requirements and business schedules
  • Strong technical leadership and mentorship across embedded engineering teams
  • Excellent communication, interpersonal skills
  • Passion for innovation, scalable and reusable designs promoting modern engineering practices
  • Continuous improvement mindset

All positions may require participation in video and in-person interviews as part of the hiring process. All candidates will be evaluated based on job-related competencies, and all candidates' privacy rights and data security will be protected in accordance with applicable laws.
We are committed to ensuring equal employment opportunities for all job applicants and employees. Employment decisions are based upon job-related reasons regardless of an applicant's race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, national origin, disability, marital status, genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other status protected by law.
Eaton believes in second chance employment. Qualified applicants with arrest or conviction history will be considered regardless of their arrest or conviction history, consistent with the Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance, the California Fair Chance Act and other local laws.
You do not need to disclose your conviction history or participate in a background check until a conditional job offer is made to you. After making a conditional offer and running a background check, if Eaton is concerned about conviction that is directly related to the job, you will be given the chance to explain the circumstances surrounding the conviction, provide mitigating evidence, or challenge the accuracy of the background report.
To request a disability-related reasonable accommodation to assist you in your job search, application, or interview process, please call us at 1-800-836-6345 to discuss your specific need. Only accommodation requests will be accepted by this phone number.
We know that good benefit programs are important to employees and their families. Eaton provides various Health and Welfare benefits as well as Retirement benefits, and several programs that provide for paid and unpaid time away from work. Click here for more detail: Eaton Benefits Overview. Please note that specific programs and options available to an employee may depend on eligibility factors such as geographic location, date of hire, and the applicability of collective bargaining agreements.

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About Eaton

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Electrical equipment, appliance, and component manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Cleveland, OH, US


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