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Entry Level Embedded Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

We are looking for an entry-level engineer or intern to support the optimization and deployment of ... Interest in computer architecture, performance optimization, and edge or embedded systems. * Strong ...

We are looking for an entry-level engineer or intern to support the optimization and deployment of ... Interest in computer architecture, performance optimization, and edge or embedded systems. * Strong ...

Software Engineer I

Mountain View, CA · On-site

$116K - $174K/yr

You will be instrumental in ensuring our sensors, compute units, and embedded devices function as a ... LI-Entry-Level Working at Aurora At Aurora, we bring together extraordinarily talented and ...

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Entry Level Embedded information

See California salary details

$73.1K

$156.7K

$180.5K

How much do entry level embedded jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level embedded in California is $156,681.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $130,700.00 and $179,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Entry Level Embedded vs Entry Level Software Developer?

AspectEntry Level EmbeddedEntry Level Software Developer
Required CredentialsAssociate's or Bachelor's in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or related fieldsBachelor's in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or related fields
Work EnvironmentHardware-focused, working with microcontrollers, embedded systems, and real-time operating systemsSoftware-focused, developing applications for desktops, web, or mobile platforms
Industry UsageElectronics, automotive, aerospace, consumer electronicsIT, software companies, tech startups, enterprise software
Common Search/ComparisonYesYes

Entry Level Embedded roles typically involve working with hardware and embedded systems, requiring knowledge of electronics and real-time programming. In contrast, Entry Level Software Developer positions focus on developing software applications across various platforms. While both roles require programming skills, embedded roles emphasize hardware integration, making them distinct in work environment and skill set.

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, a solid understanding of C/C++ programming, basic electronics, and computer architecture is essential, often supported by a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with microcontrollers, debugging tools such as oscilloscopes and logic analyzers, and version control systems like Git are typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication help individuals excel in this role. These competencies ensure reliable embedded system design, smooth team collaboration, and successful delivery of technical solutions.

What are entry level embedded engineers?

Entry level embedded engineers are professionals who design, develop, and test software and hardware systems that are 'embedded' within devices, such as consumer electronics, automotive systems, or industrial machines. These engineers usually work with microcontrollers, processors, and real-time operating systems to ensure products function as intended. At the entry level, they typically assist with coding, debugging, and integrating embedded systems under the supervision of senior engineers. This role requires a foundational knowledge of programming languages like C or C++, as well as an understanding of electronics and hardware interfaces.

What types of projects and tasks can I expect to work on as an entry-level embedded engineer?

As an entry-level embedded engineer, you'll typically be involved in tasks such as writing and testing firmware, debugging hardware interfaces, and assisting with the integration of software and hardware components. You may also participate in code reviews, document your work, and help with troubleshooting issues that arise during product development. Collaboration with electrical engineers and senior software developers is common, giving you exposure to different stages of the product lifecycle and opportunities to learn from experienced team members.
What are the most commonly searched types of Embedded jobs in California? The most popular types of Embedded jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Entry Level Embedded jobs? Cities in California with the most Entry Level Embedded job openings:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Embedded job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 89% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $156,681 per year, or $75.3 per hour.
Software Engineer

$91K - $137K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, PTO

Posted 13 days ago


Northrop Grumman rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 348 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

110th of 527 rated manufacturers


Job description

RELOCATION ASSISTANCE: Relocation assistance may be available
CLEARANCE REQUIRED FOR START: No
CLEARANCE TYPE: Top Secret
TRAVEL: Yes, 10% of the TimeDescription
At Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work - and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible. Our employees are not only part of history, they're making history.
Northrop Grumman Aeronautics Systems is looking to add a Software Engineer to join our team of qualified, diverse individuals within our Software organization. This position is located on site in San Diego, California.
The selected candidate will be required to work full-time, on-site at our facility. There is no remote / hybrid / telework available for this position. Travel up to 25% may be required.
In this role you will design, develop, integrate and test software (SW) for our end-user customers and businesses. You will be responsible for the design, architecture, development, and administration of embedded and real time systems. You will work with multi-disciplinary teams, such as Systems Engineering, Cloud & Application, Test Automation, DevSecOps and Systems Test, in an Agile SW development environment. You will analyze system capabilities to resolve problems on program intent, output requirements, input data acquisition, programming techniques and controls.
Duties and Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:
• Work in a fast-paced environment with high expectations, significantly diverse assignments, and collaborative team settings across all levels
• Participate in the full SW development life cycle including requirements, design, implementation, qualification, and delivery of SW products to our customers
• Operate in an embedded technology development environment working with real time operating systems for use in flight and mission critical systems
• Work in Agile Scrum teams to develop SW products for multiple SW baselines
Basic Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's Degree in a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering or Mathematics) discipline and 2 years of related engineering experience; OR a Master's degree in a STEM discipline and entry level engineering experience.
  • Experience with the full SW Development Life Cycle (SDLC).
  • Experience with Agile SW development, embedded system programming, SW integration and testing.
  • Experience with the following programming and scripting languages: C, C++, and Python.
  • Experience with two of the following tools: Jira, GitLab, Docker, Fortify, Coverity, or Black Duck.
  • Ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. Government Top Secret clearance with initial Special Program Access (SAP/PAR). This SAP/PAR must be obtained prior to commencement of employment and must be obtained within a reasonable amount of time as determined by the company to meet its business needs.

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Experience with developing multi-threaded SW used for one of the following real-time applications: flight critical SW, Safety critical SW, medical SW, or mission critical SW.
  • Ability to identify moderate execution defects by only reading code.
  • Understanding of how their embedded SW component will fit into a larger SW system / architecture.
  • Able to document, capture, and present software architectural components in modeling or diagramming tools.
  • Active in-Scope, DoD Top Secret clearance.
  • Current applicable Special Access Program (SAP) access.

Primary Level Salary Range: $91,800.00 - $137,600.00
The above salary range represents a general guideline; however, Northrop Grumman considers a number of factors when determining base salary offers such as the scope and responsibilities of the position and the candidate's experience, education, skills and current market conditions.
Depending on the position, employees may be eligible for overtime, shift differential, and a discretionary bonus in addition to base pay. Annual bonuses are designed to reward individual contributions as well as allow employees to share in company results. Employees in Vice President or Director positions may be eligible for Long Term Incentives. In addition, Northrop Grumman provides a variety of benefits including health insurance coverage, life and disability insurance, savings plan, Company paid holidays and paid time off (PTO) for vacation and/or personal business.
The application period for the job is estimated to be 20 days from the job posting date. However, this timeline may be shortened or extended depending on business needs and the availability of qualified candidates.
Northrop Grumman is an Equal Opportunity Employer, making decisions without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, or any other protected class. For our complete EEO and pay transparency statement, please visit http://www.northropgrumman.com/EEO. U.S. Citizenship is required for all positions with a government clearance and certain other restricted positions.

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About Northrop Grumman

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work - and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible.

Industry

Space research administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Falls Church, VA, US

Year founded

1939