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Embedded Systems Programmer Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

The Electrical Engineer will design, develop, test, and integrate electronic hardware and embedded systems supporting stellarator devices, test facilities, and supporting infrastructure. This role ...

The Electrical Engineer will design, develop, test, and integrate electronic hardware and embedded systems supporting stellarator devices, test facilities, and supporting infrastructure. This role ...

The Electrical Engineer will design, develop, test, and integrate electronic hardware and embedded systems supporting stellarator devices, test facilities, and supporting infrastructure. This role ...

Sr. Electronics Engineer

Oak Ridge, TN · On-site

$93K - $115K/yr

You will work on everything from power electronics circuit design to embedded systems, blending creativity with precision engineering to keep our facilities running at their best. Responsibilities:

The Electrical Engineer will design, develop, test, and integrate electronic hardware and embedded ... Design analog and digital circuits for embedded systems and instrumentation applications * Perform ...

FPGA Engineer

Knoxville, TN · On-site

$124K - $159K/yr

... embedded software, System Integration, Hardware Security, Xilinx, Simulation, IP core, Versal ... S. Government Security Clearance FPGA Engineer The EndoSec FPGA Engineer is responsible for the ...

Electronics Engineer, Sr.

Oak Ridge, TN · On-site

$93K - $115K/yr

You'll work on everything from power electronics circuit design to embedded systems, blending creativity with precision engineering to keep our facilities running at their best. What You Will Do? You ...

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Embedded Systems Programmer information

See Tennessee salary details

$4

$28

$32

How much do embedded systems programmer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for embedded systems programmer in Tennessee is $28.65, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $24.42 and $32.31 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 job categories do people searching Embedded Systems Programmer jobs in Tennessee look for? The top searched job categories for Embedded Systems Programmer jobs in Tennessee are:
Infographic showing various Embedded Systems Programmer job openings in Tennessee as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $59,594 per year, or $28.7 per hour.
Electrical Engineer

Electrical Engineer

ORAU

Knoxville, TN

Full-time

Retirement

Posted 10 days ago


Job description

Overview

ORAU is searching on behalf of Type One Energy for a permanent, fulltime Electrical Engineer in Knoxville, Tennessee. 

About Type One Energy

Type One Energy Group is mission-driven to provide sustainable, affordable fusion power to the world. Established in 2019 and venture-backed in 2023, the company is led by a team of globally recognized fusion scientists with a strong track record of building state-of-the-art stellarator fusion machines, together with veteran business leaders experienced in scaling companies and commercializing energy technologies.

If you are searching for the best new ideas and share our vision, join us as an Electrical Engineer.

Type One Energy offers:

In addition to a basic salary and yearly bonus, you will also get...

  • Stock and share options 
  • Relocation allowance 
  • Insurance plans 
  • 401k retirement options 
  • And many more great voluntary benefits 

Type One Energy applies proven advanced manufacturing methods, modern computational physics and high-field superconducting magnets to develop its optimized stellarator fusion energy system. Its FusionDirect development program pursues the lowest-risk, shortest-schedule path to a fusion power plant over the coming decade, using a partner-intensive and capital-efficient strategy.

Type One Energy is committed to community engagement in the development and deployment of its clean energy technology. For more information, visit www.typeoneenergy.com or follow us on LinkedIn.

Responsibilities

Your role in the mission:

The Electrical Engineer will design, develop, test, and integrate electronic hardware and embedded systems supporting stellarator devices, test facilities, and supporting infrastructure. This role spans analog and digital circuit design, data acquisition systems, safety PLC implementation, and hardware verification.

The ideal candidate combines strong hands-on electrical engineering skills with experience in industrial or research environments involving complex instrumentation and safety-critical systems and will: 

Analog and Digital Circuit Board Design

  • Translate high-level system requirements into detailed electrical specifications and designs;
  • Design analog and digital circuits for embedded systems and instrumentation applications;
  • Perform schematic capture, PCB layout, and artwork generation;
  • Collaborate with mechanical and systems engineers to ensure robust integration;
  • Conduct electrical bench-level testing, debugging, and validation of hardware; and
  • Support manufacturing, assembly, and design-for-reliability activities.

Data Acquisition Systems Implementation

  • Define requirements for off-the-shelf data acquisition systems to support laboratory test beds;
  • Evaluate, select, and procure appropriate hardware solutions;
  • Design and implement interfaces to sensors, actuators, and peripheral equipment;
  • Integrate data acquisition systems into experimental and operational environments; and
  • Verify performance, accuracy, and reliability through testing.

Safety PLC Implementation

  • Define, design, and implement safety PLC hardware systems to protect personnel and equipment;
  • Develop PLC logic and software for safety functions in industrial environments;
  • Support hazard mitigation strategies and compliance with safety requirements; and
  • Test and validate safety systems during commissioning and operation.

Location: Knoxville, TN

Salary: Highly Competitive Plus Benefits

Role: Permanent, full time

Qualifications

What you'll need:

  • Bachelor's or Master's degree in Electrical Engineering or a related field;
  • Minimum 5 years of experience in embedded electrical or electronics engineering;
  • Strong background in analog and digital circuit design;
  • Experience with schematic capture and PCB layout tools;
  • Hands-on experience with hardware bring-up, testing, and debugging;
  • Experience implementing data acquisition systems in laboratory or industrial settings;
  • Experience with safety PLC hardware and programming; and
  • Strong problem-solving skills and ability to work in multidisciplinary teams.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Ability to develop low-level test software in C/C++ for hardware validation in bare-metal or OS-based environments and
  • Experience verifying low-level circuit functionality through custom test code.

FPGA Development (Desirable)

  • Experience with FPGA design using VHDL and/or Verilog;
  • Development of FPGA functions and associated test benches for verification; and
  • Experience achieving timing closure for high-speed FPGA designs.
Employment Type: FULL_TIME

ORAU logo

About ORAU

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Public administration

Company size

501 - 1,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Oak Ridge, TN, US

Year founded

1946