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Firmware Engineer Jobs in Riverside, CA (NOW HIRING)

Sr Embedded Platform Engineer

Irvine, CA ยท On-site

$110K - $151K/yr

Position: Sr Embedded Platform Engineer Location: Irvine CA (Onsite) Long Term Contract with ... Firmware Debugging, Oscilloscope, Logic Analyzer * TI C2000, NXP, STM32, Aurix * CAN, SPI, Ethernet ...

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Senior Embedded Platform Engineer

Irvine, CA ยท On-site

$133K - $174K/yr

We're seeking a Senior Platform/Real-Time Embedded Firmware Engineer with strong low-level embedded software expertise and a passion for building robust, deterministic firmware for safety-critical ...

Senior Embedded Platform Engineer

Irvine, CA ยท On-site

$133K - $174K/yr

We're seeking a Senior Platform/Real-Time Embedded Firmware Engineer with strong low-level embedded software expertise and a passion for building robust, deterministic firmware for safety-critical ...

Embedded SW Engineer

Irvine, CA ยท On-site

$141K - $185K/yr

The Engineer will contribute to platform by working at the lowest layers of the infrastructure stack -- firmware, BIOS/UEFI, bootloaders, and board support packages (BSP). This work provides the ...

Embedded SW Engineer

Irvine, CA ยท On-site

$141K - $185K/yr

The Engineer will contribute to platform by working at the lowest layers of the infrastructure stack -- firmware, BIOS/UEFI, bootloaders, and board support packages (BSP). This work provides the ...

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Just as important, the ideal candidate leverages strong firmware coding experience to drive pre ... S. in Electrical/Electronics or Computer Engineering (or related), with relevant digital ASIC ...

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Senior Software Engineer

Irvine, CA ยท On-site

$131K - $173K/yr

You will work closely with firmware, software, systems, and hardware engineering teams to develop the tools, frameworks, and infrastructure that ensure product quality and reliability throughout the ...

Sr. Staff Design Verification Engineer

Irvine, CA ยท On-site

$146K - $178K/yr

Hardware/Firmware interaction and Firmware programming; and, knowledge of Microprocessors and assembly language BS or MS (Electrical or Computer Engineering ) or Equivalent Degree with 7+ years of ...

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Firmware Engineer information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$78.2K

$174.7K

$213.9K

How much do firmware engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for firmware engineer in Riverside, CA is $174,682.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $149,200.00 and $213,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

AspectFirmware EngineerEmbedded Software Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or related fields; knowledge of hardware and low-level programmingBachelor's in Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or related fields; strong programming skills in C/C++
Work EnvironmentDesigning and developing firmware for hardware devices, often working closely with hardware teamsDeveloping software for embedded systems, often in real-time environments
Industry UsageElectronics, consumer devices, IoT, automotiveConsumer electronics, medical devices, industrial automation

Firmware Engineers focus on creating low-level code that directly interacts with hardware components, while Embedded Software Engineers develop software that runs on embedded systems, often with a broader scope. Both roles require similar technical skills and often overlap in industries like consumer electronics and IoT.

How much money does a firmware engineer make?

A firmware engineer's salary varies by experience, location, and industry, but typically ranges from $80,000 to $130,000 annually. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced engineers with specialized skills in embedded systems and real-time operating systems can earn higher salaries. Certifications and proficiency with tools like C and assembly language can also influence compensation.

What engineers make $200,000 a year?

Senior firmware engineers, especially those with specialized skills in embedded systems, real-time operating systems, or working in high-demand industries like aerospace or defense, can earn $200,000 or more annually. Compensation often depends on experience, location, certifications, and the complexity of projects handled.

What engineers make $500,000?

Senior engineers in specialized fields such as software, hardware, or aerospace engineering can earn $500,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced skills, and leadership roles. High compensation often includes bonuses, stock options, or profit sharing, particularly in large tech companies or startups with significant growth potential.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Firmware Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Firmware Engineer, you need a solid background in embedded systems, C/C++ programming, and a relevant engineering degree such as Electrical or Computer Engineering. Familiarity with hardware debugging tools, version control systems like Git, and real-time operating systems (RTOS) is typically required. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help firmware engineers excel, especially when collaborating with hardware and software teams. These skills and qualities are crucial to ensure reliable, efficient firmware that seamlessly integrates with hardware products.

What are some common challenges Firmware Engineers face when working with cross-functional teams?

Firmware Engineers often collaborate closely with hardware designers, software developers, and QA teams. A common challenge is ensuring clear communication of technical requirements and constraints, as firmware must interface seamlessly with hardware and higher-level software. Misalignment or delays in one area can impact overall delivery, so Firmware Engineers need strong problem-solving and collaboration skills to address integration issues and keep projects on track. Regular cross-team meetings and thorough documentation help mitigate these challenges.

What are Firmware Engineers?

Firmware Engineers are professionals who design, develop, test, and maintain the low-level software (firmware) that allows hardware devices to function. This firmware acts as a bridge between the device's hardware and higher-level software, ensuring that hardware components operate correctly and efficiently. Firmware Engineers typically work with embedded systems, writing code in languages like C or C++ for microcontrollers, sensors, and other electronic devices. Their work is crucial in industries such as consumer electronics, automotive, medical devices, and telecommunications.

What does a firmware engineer do?

A firmware engineer designs, develops, and tests low-level software that controls hardware devices such as microcontrollers and embedded systems. They work with programming languages like C or C++, use tools like debuggers and oscilloscopes, and often collaborate with hardware engineers to ensure proper integration and functionality.
What are the most commonly searched types of Firmware Engineer jobs in Riverside, CA? The most popular types of Firmware Engineer jobs in Riverside, CA are:
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What job categories do people searching Firmware Engineer jobs in Riverside, CA look for? The top searched job categories for Firmware Engineer jobs in Riverside, CA are:
What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Firmware Engineer jobs? Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Firmware Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Firmware Engineer job openings in Riverside, CA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 60% In-person, and 40% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $174,682 per year, or $84 per hour.
Lead Embedded Engineer / Architecture / RTOS, ARM, Microcontrollers

Lead Embedded Engineer / Architecture / RTOS, ARM, Microcontrollers

Motion Recruitment

Irvine, CA โ€ข On-site

$170K - $190K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

This job post hasย expired today.ย Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

We are partnered with a rapidly growing electric vehicle technology company that is transforming the EV charging industry through innovative hardware and software solutions. As the company continues to expand, they are looking to hire a Lead / Senior Firmware Engineer to play a key role in designing, developing, and releasing embedded firmware for next-generation EV charging systems. This is a highly technical, hands-on position with significant ownership over firmware architecture, product quality, and system reliability.

They are seeking an experienced embedded engineer with a strong background in C/C++, microcontroller-based systems, and hardware integration. The ideal candidate enjoys solving complex technical challenges, mentoring engineers, and collaborating across hardware, software, cloud, and systems teams to deliver production-ready products.

Key Responsibilities
  • Design, develop, and maintain embedded firmware for EV charging controllers and related embedded systems using C/C++ (35%)
  • Develop low-level drivers and integrate hardware interfaces including CAN, UART, SPI, I2C, ADC, GPIO, Ethernet, and other communication protocols (25%)
  • Support board bring-up, hardware validation, debugging, root cause analysis, and field issue resolution throughout the product lifecycle (20%)
  • Collaborate with cross-functional hardware, software, Linux, cloud, systems, and test engineering teams to deliver high-quality products (10%)
  • Contribute to firmware architecture, code reviews, technical documentation, engineering best practices, and mentor junior engineers (10%)
Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field
  • 7+ years of embedded firmware development experience
  • Expert-level C/C++ programming for embedded systems
  • Strong experience with microcontroller-based real-time embedded development
  • Experience with embedded communication protocols including CAN, UART, SPI, I2C, Ethernet, and GPIO
  • Strong understanding of hardware/software interaction and low-level debugging techniques
  • Experience using lab equipment including JTAG debuggers, oscilloscopes, logic analyzers, and protocol analyzers
  • Experience with Git and modern software development practices
  • Excellent troubleshooting, analytical, and communication skills

Preferred Qualifications

  • Experience with EV charging, automotive, industrial controls, power electronics, or similar embedded products
  • RTOS development experience
  • Experience with bootloaders, OTA firmware updates, and firmware recovery mechanisms
  • Familiarity with Linux-based embedded systems and system-level integration
  • Experience mentoring engineers and leading technical initiatives
The Offer
  • $170,000 - $190,000 base salary
  • 5-8% annual bonus
  • Full medical, dental, and vision benefits
  • 401(k) plan
  • Two weeks paid company shutdown during Christmas and New Year's
  • 10 PTO days plus company holidays
  • Onsite opportunity in Irvine, CA
  • Opportunity to develop cutting-edge embedded technology powering the future of EV charging