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Entry Level Embedded Engineer Jobs in Raleigh, NC

Entry Level Embedded Engineer information

See Raleigh, NC salary details

$60.8K

$133.4K

$186.6K

How much do entry level embedded engineer jobs pay per year?

As of May 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level embedded engineer in Raleigh, NC is $133,441.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $108,400.00 and $158,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Embedded Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Embedded Engineer, you need a solid understanding of C/C++ programming, embedded systems concepts, and a degree in electrical engineering, computer engineering, or a related field. Familiarity with microcontrollers, real-time operating systems (RTOS), hardware debugging tools, and version control systems like Git is typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication make candidates stand out in this role. These skills and qualities are crucial for developing reliable embedded solutions, troubleshooting hardware-software interactions, and collaborating with cross-functional engineering teams.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level embedded engineers when transitioning from academic projects to real-world products?

Entry level embedded engineers often find that real-world projects involve stricter requirements for reliability, safety, and maintainability compared to academic assignments. They may need to quickly adapt to working with legacy code, constrained hardware resources, and industry-standard development tools. Additionally, collaborating with multidisciplinary teams—such as hardware designers, firmware developers, and QA engineers—requires strong communication and documentation skills. Understanding version control systems and participating in code reviews are also common aspects of the work environment.

What does an Entry Level Embedded Engineer do?

An Entry Level Embedded Engineer helps design, develop, and test software that runs on embedded systems, such as microcontrollers or other specialized hardware. Their work often involves coding in languages like C or C++ to create firmware that controls devices ranging from household electronics to automotive systems. They also assist with debugging, troubleshooting, and sometimes hardware integration under the guidance of more experienced engineers. This role provides foundational experience in both software and hardware aspects of embedded systems.
What are the most commonly searched types of Embedded Engineer jobs in Raleigh, NC? The most popular types of Embedded Engineer jobs in Raleigh, NC are:
What cities near Raleigh, NC are hiring for Entry Level Embedded Engineer jobs? Cities near Raleigh, NC with the most Entry Level Embedded Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Embedded Engineer job openings in Raleigh, NC as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 7% As Needed, 50% Full Time, 30% Part Time, 10% Contract, and 3% Nights. Highlights an 22% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 76% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $133,441 per year, or $64.2 per hour.
Entry Level Electrical Engineer

Entry Level Electrical Engineer

RFA Engineering

Cary, NC • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 20 days ago


Job description

RFA Engineering (www.rfamec.com) develops embedded software and electronics for our world-class clients in the areas of precision agriculture and vehicle electrification. We are seeking an experienced candidate to become an integral part of our engineering team. The selected candidate will work with an experienced engineering staff using state-of-the-art engineering tools & processes. This position will operate onsite at our customer's engineering and manufacturing facility.
Entry Level Electrical Engineer
RFA Engineering is seeking an Electrical Engineer to support the development of electrical systems and embedded software that control vehicle operation and functionality. This role focuses on designing, integrating, and validating robust electronic and connectivity solutions for on- and off-road vehicles operating in harsh environments. The ideal candidate enjoys hands-on engineering, cross-functional collaboration, and solving complex system-level challenges.
Responsibilities
  • Design new systems and enhance existing electrical and software solutions for rugged vehicle applications
  • Capture, analyze, and translate customer and system requirements into scalable architectures and detailed designs
  • Break down high-level requirements into mid-level architectures and detailed design documentation
  • Develop, program, debug, and integrate embedded software with electronic hardware
  • Create, review, and execute hardware and software testing strategies for complex systems
  • Perform device-level, integration-level, and system-level testing and validation using appropriate tools
  • Review test results and provide feedback, including recommendations for additional test cases
  • Conduct root cause analysis and troubleshooting for system and machine-level issues
  • Collaborate closely with software, electrical, and mechanical engineers to ensure system compatibility and performance
  • Support verification and validation activities to ensure products meet functional and performance requirements

Requirements
  • Bachelor of Science degree in Electrical Engineering, Software Engineering, Computer Engineering, or a related field
  • Ability to interpret software requirements, electrical schematics, and test documentation
  • Experience with troubleshooting, diagnostics, and root cause analysis
  • Hands-on experience using development and debugging tools such as oscilloscopes, multimeters, and logic analyzers

Desired Attributes
  • Experience with basic electronic components and hardware systems (e.g., op amps, FETs, transducers, A/D converters)
  • Familiarity with wireless communication technologies such as Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and cellular systems
  • Experience working with CAN-based networks (e.g., J1939)
  • General understanding of off-road equipment, vehicles, or industrial machinery
  • Self-motivated with a strong sense of ownership and a problem-solving mindset
  • Strong analytical and mathematical skills
  • Effective verbal and written communication skills

Visa sponsorship is NOT available for this position.
About RFA Engineering
RFA Engineering has provided product development and engineering services to industry leading customers since 1943. Our primary focus is the development of off highway equipment including agricultural, construction, mining, recreational, industrial, and special machines. Our work includes concept development, product design, documentation, problem-solving, simulation, optimization, and testing of components, systems and complete machines. Our engineering staff is located at our Engineering Center in Minneapolis, branch office in Dubuque, IA, and at numerous customer sites throughout the U.S.
Competitive Benefits
  • Health and Dental Insurance
  • TelaDoc Healthiest You
  • Supplemental Vision Insurance
  • Company Paid Life Insurance
  • Company Paid Long-Term Disability
  • Short-term Disability
  • Retirement Savings Account (Traditional 401k & Roth 401k)
  • Flexible Spending Plan Dependent Care
  • HSA for Medical Expenses
  • Bonus Plan (Exempt Employees Only)
  • Paid Time Off (PTO)
  • Paid Holidays
  • Bereavement Leave
  • Employee Assistance Programs (EAP)
  • Education Assistance

Equal Opportunity and Veteran Friendly
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.