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Embedded Systems Programmer Jobs in Pennsylvania

Eaton

Lead Embedded Hardware Electrical Engineer

PA · On-site

$105K - $154K/yr

As an engineering lead, you will work within the Advanced Technology Team to lead the development ... Lead sub-system electrical embedded hardware portion of designs for solid state/power electronic ...

Eaton

Embedded Hardware Engineering Specialist

PA · On-site

$113K - $165K/yr

Job Summary Reporting to the Embedded Electronics & PCB Design CoE Manager, this role sits at the ... Bachelors' degree in Electrical, Mechatronics, power electronics, systems engineering or mechanical ...

Innovative Aerosystems

Embedded Software Engineer

Exton, PA · On-site

$126K - $167K/yr

Embedded systems knowledge * ARM processor-based development * Read and Write C source code * Read ... Board Level programming knowledge (i.e. u-boot) is desired * Interface knowledge: SPI, 422, 485 ...

FORT Robotics

Sr. Systems Engineer

Philadelphia, PA

$105K - $144K/yr

As a Systems Engineer, you will join a small, focused team responsible for defining and managing ... Background in one or more of the following domains: embedded systems, wireless/IP communications ...

INNOVATIVE AEROSYSTEMS

Embedded Software Engineer

Exton, PA

$126K - $167K/yr

Embedded systems knowledge * ARM processor-based development * Read and Write C source code * Read ... Board Level programming knowledge (i.e. u-boot) is desired * Interface knowledge: SPI, 422, 485 ...

FORT Robotics

Sr. Systems Engineer

Philadelphia, PA · On-site

$105K - $144K/yr

As a Systems Engineer, you will join a small, focused team responsible for defining and managing ... Background in one or more of the following domains: embedded systems, wireless/IP communications ...

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All JobsEmbedded Systems Programmer JobsEmbedded Systems Programmer Jobs in Pennsylvania

Embedded Systems Programmer information

See Pennsylvania salary details

$5

$31

$35

How much do embedded systems programmer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 27, 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 are embedded systems programmers?

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 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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Embedded Systems Programmer, and why are they important?

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 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.

What are popular job titles related to Embedded Systems Programmer jobs in Pennsylvania? For Embedded Systems Programmer jobs in Pennsylvania, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Embedded Systems Programmer jobs in Pennsylvania look for? The top searched job categories for Embedded Systems Programmer jobs in Pennsylvania are:
Embedded Systems Programmer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Embedded Systems Programmer job openings in Pennsylvania as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 52% Full Time, and 48% Part Time. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $65,817 per year, or $31.6 per hour.

Embedded Software Engineer

Penn State University

University Park, PA • On-site

$76K - $129K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 15 days ago

Penn State University rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 100 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

181st of 541 rated colleges and universities

Job description

APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS:
  • CURRENT PENN STATE EMPLOYEE (faculty, staff, technical service, or student), please login to Workday to complete the internal application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.
  • CURRENT PENN STATE STUDENT (not employed previously at the university) and seeking employment with Penn State, please login to Workday to complete the student application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.
  • If you are NOT a current employee or student, please click "Apply" and complete the application process for external applicants.

Approval of remote and hybrid work is not guaranteed regardless of work location. For additional information on remote work at Penn State, see Notice to Out of State Applicants.
POSITION SPECIFICS
We are searching for a motivated and technically strong Embedded Software Engineer to join our Embedded Software Department within the Guidance and Control Technologies Division at the Applied Research Laboratory (ARL) at Penn State University. This position supports the development of advanced autonomous undersea systems and contributes directly to national defense research initiatives.
ARL is an authorized DoD SkillBridge partner and welcomes all transitioning military members to apply.
You will:
  • Design, implement, integrate, and test embedded software supporting autonomous vehicle guidance and control, including sensor monitoring, actuator and motor control, and algorithms for signal processing, detection, classification, tracking, and decision-making
  • Develop and integrate autonomy-related capabilities such as sensor fusion, perception, and embedded signal-processing pipelines
  • Collaborate within a multidisciplinary team to integrate complete embedded software systems and support hardware-in-the-loop testing and bench-level validation
  • Prepare documentation, technical reports, and presentations
  • Support occasional travel to remote test locations as part of a small engineering and research team

Required skills/experience areas include:
  • Writing software for an embedded system
  • Proficiency in C or C++ for embedded environments
  • Effective interpersonal communication skills, demonstrated through previous success in collaborative, multidisciplinary engineering environments
  • Ability to clearly convey technical information in presentations, documentation, and design discussions

Preferred skills/experience areas include:
  • Embedded communication protocols such as UART, SPI, I2C, CAN, and Ethernet
  • Microcontroller programming and low-level embedded development
  • Linux experience
  • Scripting with Python or MATLAB
  • Autonomy-related algorithms such as sensor fusion, Kalman filtering, state estimation, or embedded perception/tracking
  • Autonomy frameworks (e.g., ROS 2, MOOS-IvP, JAUS-based middleware)
  • Real-time embedded systems or RTOS environments
  • Hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) environments or lab-based hardware integration
  • Use of AI- or LLM-assisted workflows to improve software development efficiency, code quality, or documentation
  • Agile development methods and toolsets such as Atlassian
  • Unit testing frameworks
  • Current eligibility for access to classified information at the Secret level or higher and may be subject to a government background investigation to upgrade clearance eligibility if required

This position will be fully on-site in State College, PA. Questions related to flexible work should be directed to the hiring manager during the interview process. This role requires periodic travel to remote locations.
MINIMUM EDUCATION, WORK EXPERIENCE & REQUIRED CERTIFICATIONS
If filled as Research and Development Engineer - Intermediate Professional, this position requires:Bachelor's Degree - Engineering or Science2+ years of relevant experienceRequired Certifications:NoneIf filled as Research and Development Engineer - Professional, this position requires:Bachelor's Degree - Engineering or ScienceNo prior relevant work experience requiredRequired Certifications:None
BACKGROUND CHECKS/CLEARANCES
Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies.
All positions at ARL require candidates to possess the ability to obtain a government security clearance; you will be notified during the interview process if this position is subject to a government background investigation. You must be a U.S. citizen to apply. Employment with the ARL will require successful completion of a pre-employment drug screen.
SALARY & BENEFITS
The salary range for this position, including all possible grades, is $76,700.00 - $129,500.00.**THE PROPOSED SALARY RANGE MAY BE IMPACTED BY GEOGRAPHIC DIFFERENTIAL**
Salary Structure - Information on Penn State's salary structure
Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full-time employees designed to support both personal and professional well-being. In addition to comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, employees enjoy robust retirement plans and substantial paid time off which includes holidays, vacation and sick time. One of the standout benefits is the generous 75% tuition discount, available to employees as well as eligible spouses and children. For more detailed information, please visit our Benefits Page.
CAMPUS SECURITY CRIME STATISTICS
Pursuant to the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act and the Pennsylvania Act of 1988, Penn State publishes a combined Annual Security and Annual Fire Safety Report (ASR). The ASR includes crime statistics and institutional policies concerning campus security, such as those concerning alcohol and drug use, crime prevention, the reporting of crimes, sexual assault, and other matters. The ASR is available for review here.
EEO IS THE LAW
Penn State is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact 814-865-1473.
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