2

Entry Level Embedded Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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

They are seeking an entry level Test Engineer to support internal telematics device testing tools ... to validate embedded communication behavior and system functionality. • Loading and running ...

Coordinating a team of 2-3 entry-level and mid-level engineers, apply independent, advanced technical and procedural knowledge to ensure that components are developed pursuant to company standards ...

Coordinating a team of 2-3 entry-level and mid-level engineers, apply independent, advanced technical and procedural knowledge to ensure that components are developed pursuant to company standards ...

Engineer I, Test

Carlsbad, CA · On-site

$59K - $102K/yr

Responsibilities This role is an entry level Test Engineer position for CalAmp mobile devices ... Support automated test execution software used to validate embedded communication behavior and ...

Responsibilities This role is an entry level Test Engineer position for CalAmp mobile devices ... Support automated test execution software used to validate embedded communication behavior and ...

Engineer I, Test

Carlsbad, CA · Hybrid

$59K - $102K/yr

This role is an entry level Test Engineer position for CalAmp mobile devices supporting internal ... Support automated test execution software used to validate embedded communication behavior and ...

Create PCBs for power distribution, protocol bridging, and embedded control. * Networking ... Experience Level: We are recruiting across a wide range of experience levels from entry level ...

Showing results 21-40

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 Aug 18, 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 an entry level embedded engineer?

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 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 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 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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 75% In-person, and 25% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $156,681 per year, or $75.3 per hour.

Entry Level & Senior Software Engineer, AI Software Platform (Onsite)

Qualcomm

San Diego, CA • On-site

$130K - $171K/yr

Full-time

Posted 22 days ago


Qualcomm rating

8.8

Company rating: 8.8 out of 10

Based on 11 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

49th of 245 rated software companies


Job description

Company:
Qualcomm Technologies, Inc.
Job Area:
Engineering Group, Engineering Group > Machine Learning Engineering
General Summary:
As a leading technology innovator, Qualcomm pushes the boundaries of what's possible to enable next-generation experiences and drive digital transformation, creating a smarter, connected future for all. As an AI Software Core Software Engineer, you will develop and implement cutting-edge machine learning techniques that enable the efficient utilization of state-of-the-art solutions across various technology verticals.
In this role, you will be responsible for developing tools and supporting AI SW platform for the Qualcomm AI Stack spanning the Qualcomm AI Runtime (QAIRT) SDK, specifically Core software including Generative AI Inference Extensions (Genie) and the corresponding HW ML accelerator back-end support on the SoC. You will be responsible for researching state-of-the art AI toolchains, performance / memory and HW (CPU/NPU/eNPU) profiling for Edge-AI use cases on the embedded SoC.
You will have the opportunity to demonstrate your passion for software tools (developed in house and/or bring in off-the-shelf AI tools), support AI SW ecosystem across development and test and customer support. You will contribute to software toolchains and system level performance / memory profiling across a wide variety of OSes and platforms. You will collaborate with cross-functional teams to deliver robust, scalable AI software solutions, and contribute to a culture of technical excellence, knowledge sharing, and continuous improvement within the AI Software team.
Minimum Qualifications:
• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Engineering, Information Systems, or related field and 2+ years of Hardware Engineering, Software Engineering, Systems Engineering, or related work experience.
OR
Master's degree in Computer Science, Engineering, Information Systems, or related field and 1+ year of Hardware Engineering, Software Engineering, Systems Engineering, or related work experience.
OR
PhD in Computer Science, Engineering, Information Systems, or related field.
Responsibilities
  • You will be involved in developing in-house software tools or research off-the-shelf 3rd party toolchains, compilers required for the Qualcomm AI Stack SDKs, specifically QAIRT and Genie, to support the execution of the latest generative AI models on Snapdragon platforms for various AI use cases across a wide-variety of SoCs and OS platforms (Android, Linux, QNX, Windows, Zephyr, etc.)
  • You will be involved in System level performance and memory profiling/benchmarking required to support high performance and efficient AI SW stack on SoCs supporting Edge-AI use cases using Qualcomm's AI SW SDK and associated components/toolchains
  • Validate, analyze, and optimize the performance and accuracy of software through detailed testing of machine learning use cases.
  • Debug complex issues, perform root cause analysis, and ensure high system reliability.
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams to deliver robust, scalable toolchains
  • Contribute to a culture of technical excellence, knowledge sharing, and continuous improvement within the AI Software team.
  • Participate in design and code reviews.
  • Work independently with minimal supervision.

Preferred Qualifications (Desired)
  • Master's degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, or Electrical Engineering.
  • 1+ years of experience building embedded software applications.
  • Proficiency in software tools development using C/C++/Python, compiler toolchains (LLVM, GNU) and build systems (Make/CMake)
  • Projects or Internships experience (Entry level) / 2+ years (Senior) of general software development experience.
  • Experience with development in different OS/platforms like Android, Linux, Windows
  • Knowledge of low-level interactions between operating systems (e.g., Linux, Android, Windows, QNX, etc.) and hardware.
  • Experience using/integrating Qualcomm AI Stack products (e.g., QNN, Genie).
  • Experience with agile software development practices and git-based SCM.
  • Ability to collaborate across a globally diverse team and manage multiple interests.
  • Excellent communication skills (verbal, presentation, and writing).

Qualcomm is an equal opportunity employer. If you are an individual with a disability and need an accommodation during the application/hiring process, rest assured that Qualcomm is committed to providing an accessible process. You may e-mail disability-accomodations@qualcomm.com or call Qualcomm's toll-free number found here. Upon request, Qualcomm will provide reasonable accommodations to support individuals with disabilities to be able participate in the hiring process. Qualcomm is also committed to making our workplace accessible for individuals with disabilities. (Keep in mind that this email address is used to provide reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities. We will not respond here to requests for updates on applications or resume inquiries).
To all Staffing and Recruiting Agencies: Our Careers Site is only for individuals seeking a job at Qualcomm. Staffing and recruiting agencies and individuals being represented by an agency are not authorized to use this site or to submit profiles, applications or resumes, and any such submissions will be considered unsolicited. Qualcomm does not accept unsolicited resumes or applications from agencies. Please do not forward resumes to our jobs alias, Qualcomm employees or any other company location. Qualcomm is not responsible for any fees related to unsolicited resumes/applications.
EEO Employer: Qualcomm is an equal opportunity employer; all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, Veteran status, or any other protected classification.
Qualcomm expects its employees to abide by all applicable policies and procedures, including but not limited to security and other requirements regarding protection of Company confidential information and other confidential and/or proprietary information, to the extent those requirements are permissible under applicable law.
Pay range and Other Compensation & Benefits:
$140,800.00 - $211,200.00
The above pay scale reflects the broad, minimum to maximum, pay scale for this job code for the location for which it has been posted. Even more importantly, please note that salary is only one component of total compensation at Qualcomm. We also offer a competitive annual discretionary bonus program and opportunity for annual RSU grants (employees on sales-incentive plans are not eligible for our annual bonus). In addition, our highly competitive benefits package is designed to support your success at work, at home, and at play. Your recruiter will be happy to discuss all that Qualcomm has to offer - and you can review more details about our US benefits at this link.
If you would like more information about this role, please contact Qualcomm Careers.

What Qualcomm employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


Qualcomm logo

About Qualcomm

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Qualcomm is enabling a world where everyone and everything can be intelligently connected. You interact with products and technologies made possible by Qualcomm every day, including 5G-enabled smartphones that double as pro-level cameras and gaming devices, smarter vehicles and cities, and the technology behind the smart, connected factories that manufactured your latest purchase. Our powerful connectivity solutions keep you connected—even in remote areas. Qualcomm 5G and AI innovations are the power behind the connected intelligent edge. You’ll find our technologies behind and inside the innovations that deliver significant value across multiple industries and to billions of people every day.

Industry

Technology, communication and media

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

San Diego, CA, US

Year founded

1985