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Freelance Embedded Firmware Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

USA Firmware

Principal Embedded Firmware Engineer

Houston, TX · On-site

$98K - $134K/yr

A Houston-based professional engineering firm is seeking a Principal Embedded Firmware Engineer to lead the architecture, design, development, verification, and maintenance of advanced safety ...

USA Firmware

Principal Embedded Firmware Engineer

Houston, TX · On-site

$98K - $134K/yr

A Houston-based professional engineering firm is seeking a Principal Embedded Firmware Engineer to lead the architecture, design, development, verification, and maintenance of advanced safety ...

Simbex

Embedded Firmware Engineer

Lebanon, NH · On-site

$120K - $140K/yr

Simbex is seeking an Embedded Firmware Engineer to develop production firmware for next-generation IoT wearable devices. In this role, you will build embedded software for low-power connected systems ...

Simbex

Embedded Firmware Engineer

Lebanon, NH · On-site

Salary: $120,000 to $140,000 Simbex is seeking an Embedded Firmware Engineer to develop production firmware for next-generation IoT wearable devices. In this role, you will build embedded software ...

Simbex

Embedded Firmware Engineer

Lebanon, NH · On-site

$115K - $158K/yr

Simbex is seeking an Embedded Firmware Engineer to develop production firmware for next-generation IoT wearable devices. In this role, you will build embedded software for low-power connected systems ...

Actalent

Embedded Firmware Engineer

Manville, RI · On-site

$65/hr

Embedded Firmware Engineer The Embedded Firmware Engineer will design, develop, and maintain embedded C firmware for microcontroller-based fire detection and suppression controllers. This role ...

New

NextDeavor Inc.

Embedded Firmware Engineer

Morrisville, NC · On-site

$140K - $150K/yr

Embedded Firmware Engineer Full-time Morrisville, NC, US Exclusive confidential search -- details shared with qualified applicants. Become a Key Player as an Embedded Firmware Engineer You will ...

Alliance Laundry System

Embedded Firmware Engineer

Ripon, WI · On-site

$104K - $142K/yr

The Embedded Firmware Engineer with Alliance Laundry Systems will focus on writing, designing and testing embedded firmware for electronic controls for commercial laundry equipment. The products at ...

Vitesse Systems

Embedded Firmware Engineer

Webster, TX · On-site

$79K - $150K/yr

The Embedded Firmware Engineer will work with a talented multidisciplinary team of engineers to help design cutting edge robotic systems and electromechanical hardware for clients in a wide variety ...

Alliance Laundry System

Embedded Firmware Engineer

Ripon, WI · On-site

$104K - $142K/yr

Overview The Embedded Firmware Engineer with Alliance Laundry Systems will focus on writing, designing and testing embedded firmware for electronic controls for commercial laundry equipment. The ...

Vitesse Systems

Embedded Firmware Engineer

Webster, TX · On-site

$79K - $150K/yr

The Embedded Firmware Engineer will work with a talented multidisciplinary team of engineers to help design cutting edge robotic systems and electromechanical hardware for clients in a wide variety ...

Sentient Industries

Embedded Firmware Engineer

Austin, TX · On-site

$102K - $139K/yr

About the Role Sentient Industries is seeking an Embedded Firmware Engineer to join our team in Austin, TX. In this role, you'll develop and maintain production firmware for power electronics and ...

Sentient Industries

Embedded Firmware Engineer

Austin, TX · On-site

$102K - $139K/yr

About the Role Sentient Industries is seeking an Embedded Firmware Engineer to join our team in Austin, TX. In this role, you'll develop and maintain production firmware for power electronics and ...

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All JobsEmbedded Firmware Engineer JobsFreelance Embedded Firmware Engineer Jobs

Freelance Embedded Firmware Engineer information

See salary details

$73.5K

$122K

$164K

How much do freelance embedded firmware engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for freelance embedded firmware engineer in the United States is $122,008.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $103,000.00 and $141,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is C++ good for freelancing?

C++ is a valuable programming language for freelance embedded firmware engineers due to its efficiency and control over hardware resources. It is widely used in embedded systems development, and proficiency in C++ can increase job opportunities in this field. However, knowledge of other languages like C and understanding of real-time operating systems are also beneficial.

What are some common challenges faced by freelance embedded firmware engineers when working with remote clients?

Freelance embedded firmware engineers often encounter challenges such as aligning on hardware specifications without physical access, navigating diverse toolchains or development environments, and ensuring clear communication across time zones. Managing expectations and maintaining thorough documentation is key, especially when troubleshooting or delivering updates remotely. Building trust with clients requires proactive status reporting, flexibility in accommodating client workflows, and strong problem-solving skills to address unforeseen hardware or integration issues.

How much do embedded firmware engineers make?

Embedded firmware engineers typically earn between $70,000 and $120,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and industry. Senior roles or those with specialized skills in microcontrollers, real-time operating systems, or hardware integration can command higher salaries.

Will the firmware engineer be replaced by AI?

Firmware engineers play a critical role in designing and implementing low-level software for embedded systems, which requires specialized knowledge and problem-solving skills. While AI tools can assist with code generation and testing, they are unlikely to fully replace firmware engineers due to the complexity and customization involved in embedded development. Human expertise remains essential for system integration, debugging, and ensuring safety and reliability.

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

AspectFreelance Embedded Firmware EngineerEmbedded Software Developer
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in electrical engineering, computer engineering, or related fields; certifications like ARM or embedded systems courses are commonSimilar credentials; often holds degrees in computer science or electrical engineering; certifications in embedded systems are beneficial
Work EnvironmentIndependent, project-based work often remote; collaborates with multiple clientsUsually employed by a company; works in office or remote teams
Industry UsageFreelance embedded firmware engineers are hired for specific projects in IoT, consumer electronics, or automotive sectorsEmbedded software developers are employed across industries like aerospace, medical devices, and consumer electronics

In summary, Freelance Embedded Firmware Engineers work independently on specific projects, often remotely, focusing on firmware development for embedded systems. Embedded Software Developers are typically employed by companies, working within teams to develop software for embedded devices across various industries.

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

To thrive as a Freelance Embedded Firmware Engineer, you need strong expertise in C/C++ programming, microcontroller architectures, and embedded systems design, usually supported by a degree in electrical engineering, computer engineering, or a related field. Familiarity with debugging tools, version control systems (like Git), real-time operating systems (RTOS), and relevant industry certifications such as ARM or IoT certifications is often required. Excellent problem-solving, self-management, and client communication skills are crucial for coordinating projects and delivering solutions independently. These abilities are essential to meet client expectations, deliver robust firmware solutions, and succeed in a highly technical and autonomous work environment.

What does a Freelance Embedded Firmware Engineer do?

A Freelance Embedded Firmware Engineer designs, develops, and tests low-level software (firmware) that controls hardware devices. They often work on projects such as microcontroller programming, developing drivers, or integrating sensors and peripherals in embedded systems. As freelancers, they typically work with multiple clients, providing expertise in areas like C/C++ programming, hardware interfacing, and debugging. Their role is crucial in making electronic devices function efficiently and reliably.

Are firmware engineers in demand?

Firmware engineers are in high demand due to the growth of embedded systems in industries such as automotive, healthcare, and consumer electronics. Skills in C/C++, real-time operating systems, and hardware integration increase employability, and many companies seek professionals capable of developing and maintaining low-level software for connected devices.
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Freelance Embedded Firmware Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Freelance Embedded Firmware Engineer job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 84% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $122,008 per year, or $58.7 per hour.

Principal Embedded Firmware Engineer

USA Firmware

Houston, TX

$98K - $134K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 10 days ago

Job description

A Houston-based professional engineering firm is seeking a Principal Embedded Firmware Engineer to lead the architecture, design, development, verification, and maintenance of advanced safety-critical medical device firmware. This role focuses on Class I, II, and III medical devices, including neuromodulation platforms, implantable pulse generators, and artificial pancreas systems. The position requires leadership in embedded firmware development, risk and reliability analysis, secure design, wireless communication systems, and low-power embedded architectures.

The Principal Embedded Firmware Engineer will collaborate with multidisciplinary engineering teams across software, electrical, and mechanical disciplines to deliver high-quality products on schedule. The role also includes mentoring engineers, leading project execution strategy, driving technical innovation, and serving as a customer-facing technical leader.

Key responsibilities include:

  • Firmware architecture, coding, testing, integration, and verification
  • Safety-critical embedded systems development
  • Low-power embedded design and optimization
  • Development of wireless and wired communication interfaces (BLE, UART, I2C, USB, NFC)
  • Cybersecurity implementation and FOTA update strategies
  • Risk assessment, technical planning, and lifecycle management
  • Cross-functional collaboration and technical mentorship

Candidates should have extensive experience with C/C++, Python, ARM Cortex architectures, RTOS and bare-metal systems, medical device development processes, and relevant regulatory standards such as IEC 62304 and ISO 14971.

Requirements

  • MS degree in a relevant engineering or technical field, or equivalent experience
  • 15+ years of experience in embedded firmware or related specialized engineering fields
  • Minimum 10 years of experience working within a requirements-driven structured development process
  • Strong experience with embedded microcontrollers, bare-metal systems, and RTOS environments
  • Proficiency in C/C++, Python, and assembly language programming
  • Experience with ARM Cortex architectures and low-power embedded system design
  • Experience with communication interfaces including UART, I2C, USB, BLE, and NFC
  • Knowledge of cybersecurity principles and firmware-over-the-air (FOTA) updates
  • Experience with firmware architecture, device drivers, testing, integration, and verification
  • Familiarity with software development tools such as Jira, Git, GitHub, and BitBucket
  • Working knowledge of IEC 62304, ISO 13485, ISO 14971, and other relevant medical device standards
  • Experience with safety-critical applications and medical devices preferred
  • Strong troubleshooting, root-cause analysis, and risk assessment skills
  • Excellent communication, leadership, collaboration, and mentoring abilities
  • Proven ability to lead projects through the full software development lifecycle from architecture through release and maintenance

Benefits

Company-paid Vision and Dental insurance

Discounted Medical insurance

401(k) matching program

Opportunity to work on cutting-edge medical device technologies

Collaborative, multidisciplinary engineering environment

Exposure to a wide variety of advanced medical device projects

Continuous learning and professional growth opportunities

Leadership and mentorship opportunities within technical teams

High-impact work focused on improving patient outcomes and quality of life

Apply