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Entry Level Embedded Software Jobs in Santa Clara, CA

Firmware Engineer (entry level) Are you passionate about development and project-based work? Do you ... Good programming capability in C * Experience or good understanding of embedded systems

Firmware Engineer

San Jose, CA · On-site

$90 - $120/hr

Firmware Engineer (entry level) Are you passionate about development and project-based work? Do you ... Good programming capability in C * Experience or good understanding of embedded systems

Showing results 21-36

Entry Level Embedded Software information

See Santa Clara, CA salary details

$82.2K

$180.1K

$204.4K

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

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level embedded software in Santa Clara, CA is $180,139.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $154,400.00 and $203,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry level embedded software engineer?

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 the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level embedded software engineer?

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 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 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 most commonly searched types of Embedded Software jobs in Santa Clara, CA?

The most popular types of Embedded Software jobs in Santa Clara, CA are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Embedded Software jobs in Santa Clara, CA look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Embedded Software jobs in Santa Clara, CA are:

What cities near Santa Clara, CA are hiring for Entry Level Embedded Software jobs?

Cities near Santa Clara, CA with the most Entry Level Embedded Software job openings:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Embedded Software job openings in Santa Clara, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 74% In-person, and 26% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $180,139 per year, or $86.6 per hour.

Software Development Engineer, File Systems

Apple Inc.

Cupertino, CA • On-site

$129 - $195/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Retirement

Posted 6 days ago


Apple rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 681 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

6th of 30 rated technology retailers


Job description

Software Development Engineer, File Systems

Cupertino, California, United States Software and Services

The Filesystem team within Apple's CoreOS organization is looking for an exceptional engineer who will contribute to the design and implementation of Apple's file systems technologies on all Apple devices and platforms.

Description

The ideal candidate will be self-motivated and also have a desire to learn and develop technical expertise and leadership. Working on core technologies for macOS, iOS, watchOS, tvOS and visionOS, you will have the opportunity to have a major impact on the design and implementation of Apple's consumer products. Our environment fosters product innovation, rapid product iteration, and a liberating amount of autonomy.

Responsibilities
  • Work with a highly skilled engineering team in the design and implementation of filesystem technologies
  • Participation in all phases of a product development cycle: from product definition and design, through implementation, debugging and testing of new file system storage components that require research and analysis.
  • Play a key role in system performance analysis and optimization
  • Perform functional, system, and load/stress analysis
  • Maintenance and enhancement of existing filesystems
  • Work on embedded, desktop, and server products and ability to make technical design and implementation decisions to optimize each platform
  • Work with cross functional teams to support developer and product requirements
Minimum Qualifications
  • Understanding of storage specific data structures, operating systems internals, storage performance evaluation
  • Genuine passion for file systems technology, data security, privacy, and strong commitment towards developing testability, reliability
  • Bachelors in Computer Science/Electrical Engineering
Preferred Qualifications
  • macOS, iOS, and watchOS exposure (end user, administrator, developer) is very helpful
  • A \"Can-Do\" attitude, and commitment for \"doing what it takes to get it done right\" to ship projects on a preset schedule

At Apple, base pay is one part of our total compensation package and is determined within a range. This provides the opportunity to progress as you grow and develop within a role. The base pay range for this role is between $129,300 and $194,700, and your base pay will depend on your skills, qualifications, experience, and location.

Apple employees also have the opportunity to become an Apple shareholder through participation in Apple's discretionary employee stock programs. Apple employees are eligible for discretionary restricted stock unit awards, and can purchase Apple stock at a discount if voluntarily participating in Apple's Employee Stock Purchase Plan. You'll also receive benefits including: Comprehensive medical and dental coverage, retirement benefits, a range of discounted products and free services, and for formal education related to advancing your career at Apple, reimbursement for certain educational expenses - including tuition. Additionally, this role might be eligible for discretionary bonuses or commission payments as well as relocation. Learn more about Apple Benefits

Note: Apple benefit, compensation and employee stock programs are subject to eligibility requirements and other terms of the applicable plan or program.

Apple is an equal opportunity employer that is committed to inclusion and diversity. We seek to promote equal opportunity for all applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, Veteran status, or other legally protected characteristics. Learn more about your EEO rights as an applicant

At Apple, we believe accessibility is a fundamental human right. You'll find that idea reflected in everything here - in our culture, our benefits and our digital tools. By welcoming as many perspectives as possible, we help you build a career where you feel like you belong.

Learn about accessibility in Apple's workplace

Learn about reasonable accommodations for job applicants

Apple accepts applications to this posting on an ongoing basis.

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About Apple

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Imagine what you could do here! At Apple, new ideas have a way of becoming extraordinary products, services, and customer experiences very quickly. Bring passion and dedication to your job and there's no telling what you could accomplish. Dynamic, intelligent people and inspiring, innovative technologies are the norm here. The people who work here have reinvented entire industries with all Apple Hardware products. The same real passion for innovation that goes into our products also applies to our practices strengthening our dedication to leave the world better than we found it.

Industry

Computer and electronic product manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Cupertino, CA, US

Year founded

1976