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Embedded Systems Researcher Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

$160K - $170K/yr

Embedded Systems Engineer (Space & High-Reliability Systems) Job Summary We are seeking an ... Prior experience supporting government-funded research and development programs, including ...

NY · On-site

Summary As a Lead Cybersecurity Research Engineer at GE Vernova's Advanced Research Center, you will support R&D efforts to secure critical embedded systems and industrial control environments. This ...

NY · On-site

Serve as a technical lead on R&D tasks, translating program requirements into robust embedded system designs and implementation plans. * Develop firmware and application software in C/C++ (and ...

$75K - $125K/yr

Software Engineer (Embedded Systems, Linux) Job Category : Software Engineering Requisition Number ... A person at this level will research, design and develop software products within a specific ...

Showing results 21-40

Embedded Systems Researcher information

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$30K

$113.1K

$164.5K

How much do embedded systems researcher jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for embedded systems researcher in the United States is $113,102.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $67,000.00 and $154,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an embedded systems researcher?

Embedded systems researchers are professionals who study, design, and improve embedded systems—specialized computing systems that perform dedicated functions within larger electronic devices. They work on developing new techniques, optimizing hardware and software integration, and ensuring system reliability and efficiency. Their work often involves experimentation, prototyping, and publishing findings to advance the field. Embedded systems researchers contribute to innovations used in industries like automotive, healthcare, consumer electronics, and industrial automation.

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as an embedded systems researcher?

To thrive as an Embedded Systems Researcher, you need a solid background in computer engineering, electronics, and embedded programming, often supported by an advanced degree in electrical or computer engineering. Familiarity with microcontroller platforms, real-time operating systems (RTOS), and proficiency in languages like C/C++ are typically required, along with experience using tools such as MATLAB or FPGA development environments. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving, and collaborative skills are essential for innovating and advancing research projects. These abilities are crucial for designing efficient, reliable embedded solutions that drive technological progress in various industries.

How does an embedded systems researcher typically collaborate with cross-functional teams during project development?

Embedded Systems Researchers often work closely with hardware engineers, software developers, and product managers to design and optimize system architectures. Collaboration involves regular meetings to align on specifications, troubleshoot integration issues, and ensure that the embedded solutions meet both technical and user requirements. Effective communication and a willingness to bridge the gap between theoretical research and practical implementation are key to success in this collaborative environment.

What is the difference between Embedded Systems Researcher vs Embedded Software Engineer?

AspectEmbedded Systems ResearcherEmbedded Software Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's/Master's in Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or related fields; research experienceBachelor's/Master's in Computer Engineering, Software Engineering, or related fields; coding skills
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, universities, R&D departmentsProduct development teams, tech companies, manufacturing
Employer & Industry UsageAcademic institutions, research firms, R&D divisionsTech companies, automotive, consumer electronics
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding research roles in embedded systemsDeveloping and maintaining embedded software

The main difference between an Embedded Systems Researcher and an Embedded Software Engineer lies in their focus and work environment. Researchers primarily work in labs or academic settings, focusing on innovation and new technologies, while software engineers develop and implement embedded software in commercial products. Both roles require technical expertise but serve different stages of product development.

What cities are hiring for Embedded Systems Researcher jobs?

Cities with the most Embedded Systems Researcher job openings:

What states have the most Embedded Systems Researcher jobs?

States with the most job openings for Embedded Systems Researcher jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Embedded Systems Researcher jobs?

For Embedded Systems Researcher jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Embedded Systems Researcher job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 23% Full Time, and 77% Part Time. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $113,102 per year, or $54.4 per hour.

Embedded Systems Department Head (FACULTY)

Hybrid

The Pennsylvania State University
Education • 11 - 50 employees

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 24 days ago


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, seeNotice to Out of State Applicants.

POSITION SPECIFICS

We are searching for a department head for the Embedded Systems Department (ESD) of the Materials, Manufacturing and Sustainment Office (MMSO) at the Applied Research Laboratory (ARL) at Penn State. The Embedded Systems Department is dedicated to developing embedded hardware and software solutions in addition to driving integration of complex systems. The department focuses on real-time control and data acquisition, edge computing architectures, modular system architecture definition, integration methodologies, and test set development to include hardware in the loop and software in the loop.

In this role, you will lead and manage all aspects of the Embedded Systems Department, providing strategic direction, technical leadership, and operational oversight. You will also establish partnerships with customer program offices, defense contractors, systems integrators, and other government laboratories to transition cutting-edge embedded capabilities to operational platforms for the warfighter.

This position may be filled as either a Research and Development Engineer or a non-tenure Research Faculty

ARL is an authorized DoD SkillBridge partner and welcomes all transitioning military members to apply.

You will:

  • Lead and manage all aspects of the Embedded Systems Department, providing strategic direction, technical leadership, and operational oversight

  • Support division leadership in developing and maintaining relationships with sponsors in support of meeting funding objectives

  • Build and direct a multidisciplinary team focused on embedded systems architectures, complex systems integration, hardware-software integration, edge analytics, and mission-critical control systems

  • Lead individual research projects and portfolios including developing technical concepts, writing winning proposals, staffing projects, conducting research, managing budgets, and delivering high-quality results

  • Provide technical oversight of embedded hardware and software development, ensuring quality and rigor of technical deliverables and research outputs

  • Transition cutting-edge embedded systems capabilities to operational platforms for the warfighter

  • Recruit, mentor, and develop staff with expertise in embedded systems, edge computing, and real-time control

  • Foster a culture of innovation, technical excellence, and mission focus

  • Lead individual research projects and portfolios including developing technical concepts, writing winning proposals, staffing the project, conducting the research, managing budgets, and delivering high-quality results

Additional responsibilities for the higher-level position includes:

  • Support development of a comprehensive roadmap for embedded systems and integration methodologies pertinent to systems of interest to the division including but not limited to missiles, hypersonics, and uncrewed aerial systems

  • Establish and maintain partnerships with customer program offices, defense contractors, systems integrators, and other government laboratories

  • Build strategic relationships with Defense Industrial Base stakeholders

  • Collaborate across ARL departments and with external stakeholders to integrate embedded solutions into larger system architectures

Non-tenure faculty rank will be commensurate with education level and experience.

Required skills/experience areas include:

  • Embedded hardware architectures (microcontrollers, SoCs, FPGAs)

  • Real-time operating systems (RTOS) and bare-metal programming

  • Hardware-software co-design and integration

  • Edge computing and edge analytics frameworks

  • Data acquisition systems and sensor integration

  • Automated control systems and algorithms

  • Cyber-resilient embedded system design

  • Testing methodologies (Hardware in the loop, software in the loop, etc.)

  • System integration methodologies

  • Embedded systems challenges in complex DoD systems (e.g., maritime, aerospace, ground vehicles, unmanned systems)

  • Past success using edge device deployment for operational environments including size, weight, and power (SWaP) constrained designs, environmental hardening and ruggedization, real-time performance optimization, and system security and anti-tamper techniques

  • Past success in writing white papers or reports

  • 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

Your working location will be fully on-site located in State College, PA. This role requires periodic travel to remote locations.

BACKGROUND CHECKS/CLEARANCES

Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies.Notice regarding employment at the Applied Research Laboratory (ARL): Employees must be eligible to obtain a government security clearance, participate in the ARL drug testing program, and comply with electronic and physical monitoring requirements applicable to federal contractors. ARL operates in a secure information environment involving Unclassified, Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI), and Classified information. Personal electronic devices brought onsite must be registered and may be restricted from certain areas. You must be a U.S. citizen to apply.

BENEFITS

Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full-time employees designed to support both personal and professional wellbeing. In addition to comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, employees enjoy robust retirement plans. 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 ourBenefits Page. (Note: For Postdoctoral benefits, please see our Postdoctoral 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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About Pennsylvania State University

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Pennsylvania State University, often referred to as Penn State, is a major, public, research-intensive university located in University Park, PA, US. This esteemed institution serves as an important player within the education industry, offering a plethora of academic programs across various disciplines. The university was founded in 1855 with the mission to provide quality education, advanced research, and service to society. Penn State holds firmly to values of integrity, respect, and excellence, fostering a diverse and inclusive community. The university is renowned for its research productivity and its high-ranking programs in areas like engineering, business, and education. One notable achievement of the institution is its designation as a "R1: Doctoral Universities – Very high research activity," demonstrating its commitment to scholarship and discovery.

Industry

Education

Company size

11 - 50 Employees

Headquarters location

University Park, PA, US

Year founded

1855

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