2

Entry Level Firmware Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

FP/5DX Engineer

San Jose, CA · On-site

$80K - $90K/yr

Flying Probe Engineer, Jr. CATEGORY: Exempt JOB FUNCTION: Interact with customer to provide Design ... Develop, verify, and integrate the hardware, software, and firmware to test the final products.

Hardware Engineer

Pompano Beach, FL · On-site

$100K - $125K/yr

We are seeking an entry-level Hardware Engineer to join our Custom Engineering team. This role is ... Collaborate with software engineers to support driver integration and basic firmware interaction.

The Digital Team develops digital designs and firmware that is used in the Field Programmable Gate Arrays (FPGAs) that are basis for the digital design controllers. * Development of the FPGAs ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Entry Level Firmware Engineer information

See salary details

$75K

$167.4K

$205K

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

As of Jun 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level firmware engineer in the United States is $167,438.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $143,000.00 and $205,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the common day-to-day tasks for an Entry Level Firmware Engineer?

As an Entry Level Firmware Engineer, your daily activities often include writing and debugging code for embedded devices, testing hardware interactions, and reviewing technical documentation. You'll work closely with senior engineers, hardware designers, and software teams to ensure your firmware integrates seamlessly with both the hardware and higher-level software. Troubleshooting and resolving bugs, participating in code reviews, and updating development logs or reports are also common. These tasks provide excellent opportunities to learn industry best practices, expand your technical knowledge, and develop collaboration skills crucial for career advancement.

What engineer makes $500,000 a year?

While most entry-level firmware engineers do not earn such high salaries, senior engineers with extensive experience, specialized skills, and leadership roles in high-demand industries can reach or exceed $500,000 annually, especially with bonuses and stock options. These roles often require advanced knowledge of embedded systems, real-time operating systems, and relevant certifications, and are typically found in large tech companies or specialized sectors.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Highly experienced engineers in specialized fields such as software engineering, data science, or certain executive roles can earn $300,000 or more annually. Senior firmware engineers with extensive expertise, advanced skills in embedded systems, and leadership responsibilities may reach this level, especially in high-demand industries or companies with competitive compensation packages.

What is an Entry Level Firmware Engineer job?

An Entry Level Firmware Engineer designs, develops, and tests low-level software that interacts closely with hardware. They work with embedded systems, writing code in languages like C or C++ to control devices such as microcontrollers, sensors, and processors. Their responsibilities often include debugging, optimizing performance, and ensuring hardware-software compatibility. They collaborate with hardware engineers and software developers to create reliable and efficient embedded systems. This role serves as a foundation for gaining expertise in embedded programming, system design, and firmware development methodologies.

Do firmware engineers make good money?

Firmware engineers typically earn competitive salaries due to their specialized skills in embedded systems, programming in languages like C and C++, and knowledge of hardware interfaces. Entry-level firmware engineers can expect starting salaries that increase with experience, certifications, and industry demand, especially in sectors like consumer electronics, automotive, and IoT. Overall, firmware engineering is considered a well-paying field within software and hardware development.

Are firmware engineers in demand?

Firmware engineers are in high demand due to the growth of embedded systems in industries such as consumer electronics, automotive, and healthcare. Skills in C, C++, and real-time operating systems are particularly valuable, and job opportunities are expected to increase as technology advances and IoT devices expand.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Entry Level Firmware Engineer position, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Firmware Engineer, you need a solid understanding of embedded systems, C/C++ programming, and basic electronics, typically with a bachelor's degree in electrical or computer engineering. Familiarity with version control systems (e.g., Git), debugging tools, and hardware interfaces like UART, I2C, or SPI is often expected. Strong problem-solving abilities, effective communication, and teamwork are essential soft skills. These abilities help ensure reliable firmware development, smooth collaboration with hardware and software teams, and efficient troubleshooting in dynamic environments.

More about Entry Level Firmware Engineer jobs
What cities are hiring for Entry Level Firmware Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Entry Level Firmware Engineer job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Firmware Engineer jobs? The most popular types of Firmware Engineer jobs are:
What states have the most Entry Level Firmware Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Entry Level Firmware Engineer jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Firmware Engineer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Firmware Engineer jobs are:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Firmware Engineer job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 4% As Needed, 17% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 75% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $167,438 per year, or $80.5 per hour.

NFC System Software Validation Engineer - Entry Level

NXP Semiconductors

San Diego, CA

$83K - $115K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago


Job description

Enable possibilities with NFC:Near Field Communication (NFC) is a fast, intuitive technology that lets you interact securely with the world around you with a simple touch. NFC wireless proximity technology is available in billions of smartphones, tablets, consumer and industrial electronics-with new devices arriving almost daily.

NXP Semiconductors Netherlands B.V. is seeking a talented and motivated NFC System Software Validation Engineer in San Diego location to contribute to the design, development, and maintenance of high-performance software solutions for our cutting-edge embedded systems and semiconductor products.

Job Responsibilities

* Validation and verification of NFC components at System level in the role of a Validation engineer

* Implement tests for software features and enhancements according to product specifications and architectural guidelines.

* Develops, modifies, and executes software test plans, automated scripts and programs for testing

* Analyzes and writes test standards and procedures. Maintains documentation of test results to assist in debugging and modification of software.

* Work with debuggers, Logic analyzer, Multimeters, Oscilloscope, RF tracer and development tools such as RF Sniffers etc.

* Collaborate with hardware engineers, firmware developers, and other software teams to ensure seamless integration and optimal system performance.

* Troubleshoot and resolve software defects and issues in a timely manner.

* Stay up-to-date with emerging technologies and industry best practices in software development for embedded systems.

Job Qualifications

* Recent Bachelor's or Master's degree in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or a related technical field.

* Proven experience in software development, validation & testing of software, preferably in an embedded systems environment.

* Basic knowledge of fundamental concepts in Wireless Communications and Connectivity domain like Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, NFC, Zigbee and secure payments.

* Strong proficiency in one of programming languages like C, C++, Java or Python is a must

* Experience with lab equipment such as oscilloscopes, spectrum analyzers, logic analyzers, etc. is required

* Experience with embedded development tools (e.g., debuggers, compilers, version control systems like Git).

* Smart card Operating Systems / Java Card OS experience is a plus

* Secure coding practices and knowledge of cryptography are appreciated

* Exposure to Global Platform Standards and EMVco Standards is a plus

* Excellent problem-solving skills and a strong analytical mindset.

* Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a collaborative team.

* Good communication skills, both written and verbal, in English.

The base salary range for this position is as mentioned below per year. We also provide competitive benefits, incentive compensation, and/or equity for certain roles.
Company benefits include health. dental, and vision insurance. 401(k), and paid leave. Please note that the base salary range (OR hourly rate) is a guideline, and individual total compensation may vary based on a number of factors such as qualifications, skill level, work location, and other business and organizational needs. This base pay range is specific to California and is not applicable to other locations. A reasonable estimate of the base salary range as of the date of this posting is:

$83,800 to $115,200 annually

More information about NXP in the United States...

NXP is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer regardless of age, color, national origin, race, religion, creed, gender, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, marital status, status as a disabled veteran and/or veteran of the Vietnam Era or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local law. In addition, NXP will provide reasonable accommodations for otherwise qualified disabled individuals.

#LI-e41b