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Entry Level Embedded Software Jobs in Georgia (NOW HIRING)

Entry Level Embedded Software information

See Georgia salary details

$59.1K

$129.5K

$146.9K

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

As of Jun 18, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level embedded software in Georgia is $129,514.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $111,000.00 and $146,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Entry Level Embedded Software vs Entry Level Firmware Engineer?

AspectEntry Level Embedded SoftwareEntry Level Firmware Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or related fieldBachelor's in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or related field
Work EnvironmentEmbedded systems development, hardware integration, real-time OSFirmware development, microcontroller programming, hardware interfacing
Industry UsageConsumer electronics, automotive, medical devicesConsumer electronics, IoT devices, industrial equipment
Common Search/ComparisonYesYes

Entry Level Embedded Software and Entry Level Firmware Engineer roles often overlap in skills and industry usage. Both require knowledge of microcontrollers, programming languages like C, and understanding of hardware-software integration. The main difference lies in terminology: embedded software focuses broadly on software running on embedded systems, while firmware engineering emphasizes low-level programming directly on hardware. Both roles are essential in developing embedded products across various industries.

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

To thrive as an Entry Level Embedded Software Engineer, you need a solid background in C/C++ programming, basic knowledge of embedded systems, and a relevant degree such as electrical engineering, computer science, or a related field. Familiarity with microcontrollers, real-time operating systems (RTOS), debugging tools, and version control systems like Git is typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective teamwork and communication abilities help you excel in this role. These skills are essential to developing reliable software, collaborating with hardware teams, and meeting project requirements in embedded system environments.

What are entry level embedded software engineers?

Entry level embedded software engineers are professionals who design, develop, and test software that runs on specialized hardware devices, such as microcontrollers or embedded systems, often at the start of their careers. They typically work with programming languages like C or C++ and collaborate closely with hardware engineers to ensure software and hardware integration. These roles often involve tasks such as writing code for device drivers, debugging software, and performing basic testing, all under the guidance of more experienced engineers. Entry level positions are ideal for recent graduates or those new to embedded systems, providing foundational experience in this field.

What are some typical challenges faced by entry-level embedded software engineers, and how can they overcome them?

Entry-level embedded software engineers often encounter challenges such as debugging hardware-software interactions, understanding real-time constraints, and adapting to unfamiliar development environments. New engineers can overcome these hurdles by actively seeking mentorship from senior team members, practicing with debugging tools, and studying relevant hardware documentation. Regular collaboration with hardware engineers and participation in code reviews can also help build confidence and technical competence, while ensuring smoother integration and project delivery.
What are the most commonly searched types of Embedded Software jobs in Georgia? The most popular types of Embedded Software jobs in Georgia are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Embedded Software jobs in Georgia look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Embedded Software jobs in Georgia are:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Embedded Software job openings in Georgia as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Locum Tenens, 54% Full Time, 33% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 9% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $129,514 per year, or $62.3 per hour.
Platform Software Developer - 2026 New Grads

Platform Software Developer - 2026 New Grads

Ciena

Atlanta, GA

$69K - $111K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 21 days ago


Job description

As the global leader in high-speed connectivity, Ciena is committed to a people-first approach. Our teams enjoy a culture focused on prioritizing a flexible work environment that empowers individual growth, well-being, and belonging. We're a technology company that leads with our humanity-driving our business priorities alongside meaningful social, community, and societal impact.

Ciena is seeking highly motivated new graduates to contribute to the platform software that powers its optical networking systems. This role plays a key part in building reliable, high-performance embedded software that enables scalable and secure global communications. The position offers exposure to complex systems development within a collaborative engineering environment.
How you will make an impact:
  • Design, implement, and debug high-performance software for real-time embedded systems used in optical networking platforms.
  • Collaborate with hardware, quality assurance, and system engineering teams to define software requirements and interfaces.
  • Develop and maintain software components spanning operating systems, drivers, control plane, and data plane functionality.
  • Troubleshoot and resolve complex software issues in multi-threaded and distributed environments.
  • Apply industry trends and emerging technologies to embedded systems and networking challenges.
The must haves:
  • Education: Master's degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering OR Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related field, graduating in 2026.
  • Experience: Application of C and C++ programming in academic or project-based software development.
  • Background in embedded systems development, including interaction with real-time operating systems and multi-threaded execution models.
  • Application of data structures, algorithms, and object-oriented design principles in software implementations.
  • Utilization of Linux-based development environments, including scripting with languages such as Python or Bash.
  • Use of software development tools including debuggers, version control systems, and automated build tools.
  • Demonstrated analytical, debugging, and problem-solving capabilities in a team-oriented development setting.
Nice to haves:
  • Exposure to networking protocols and concepts such as TCP/IP and Ethernet.
  • Background working with control plane or data plane software components.
  • Familiarity with distributed system behaviors in embedded or networking contexts.
Pay Range:
The annual pay range for this position is $69,900 to $111,700.

Pay ranges at Ciena are designed to accommodate variations in knowledge, skills, experience, market conditions, and locations, reflecting our diverse products, industries, and lines of business. Please note that the pay range information provided in this posting pertains specifically to the primary location, which is the top location listed in case multiple locations are available.

Non-Sales employees may be eligible for a discretionary incentive bonus, while Sales employees may be eligible for a sales commission. In addition to competitive compensation, Ciena offers a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, and vision plans, participation in 401(K) (USA) & DCPP (Canada) with company matching, Employee Stock Purchase Program (ESPP), Employee Assistance Program (EAP), company-paid holidays, paid sick leave, and vacation time. We also comply with all applicable laws regarding Paid Family Leave and other leaves of absence.
At Ciena, we are committed to building and fostering an environment in which our employees feel respected, valued, and heard. Ciena values the diversity of its workforce and respects its employees as individuals. We do not tolerate any form of discrimination.

Ciena is anEqual Opportunity Employer, including disability and protected veteran status.

If contacted in relation to a job opportunity, please advise Ciena of any accommodation measures you may require.