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Freelance Embedded Firmware Engineer Jobs in Boston, MA

Analogic

Embedded Firmware Engineering Manager

Canton, MA · On-site

$120K - $156K/yr

As an Embedded Firmware Engineering Manager, you will play a critical role in leading the development, design, testing, and optimization of firmware for our advanced motion control systems. Essential ...

REEKON Tools

Embedded Firmware Engineer

Boston, MA · On-site

$111K - $153K/yr

As an Embedded Engineer, you will work on a variety of projects to help us build out our embedded ... Lead efforts to develop firmware for use on consumer electronic hardware products * Architect ...

REEKON Tools

Embedded Firmware Engineer

Boston, MA · On-site

$111K - $153K/yr

As an Embedded Engineer, you will work on a variety of projects to help us build out our embedded ... Lead efforts to develop firmware for use on consumer electronic hardware products * Architect ...

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All JobsEmbedded Firmware Engineer JobsFreelance Embedded Firmware Engineer JobsFreelance Embedded Firmware Engineer Jobs in Boston, MA

Freelance Embedded Firmware Engineer information

See Boston, MA salary details

$79.8K

$132.5K

$178.2K

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

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for freelance embedded firmware engineer in Boston, MA is $132,549.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $111,900.00 and $153,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a freelance embedded firmware engineer?

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 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.

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.

Are freelance embedded firmware engineers in demand?

Freelance embedded firmware engineers are in high demand due to the growth of IoT devices, consumer electronics, and industrial automation. Skills in C/C++, real-time operating systems, and experience with hardware integration increase employability, with many opportunities available for remote and contract work across various industries.

How much do freelance embedded firmware engineers make?

Freelance embedded firmware engineers typically earn between $50 and $150 per hour, depending on experience, project complexity, and location. Senior engineers with specialized skills in microcontrollers, real-time operating systems, or hardware integration may command higher rates, especially for long-term or complex projects.

What are the most commonly searched types of Embedded Firmware Engineer jobs in Boston, MA?

The most popular types of Embedded Firmware Engineer jobs in Boston, MA are:

What are popular job titles related to Freelance Embedded Firmware Engineer jobs in Boston, MA?

For Freelance Embedded Firmware Engineer jobs in Boston, MA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Freelance Embedded Firmware Engineer jobs in Boston, MA look for?

The top searched job categories for Freelance Embedded Firmware Engineer jobs in Boston, MA are:

What cities near Boston, MA are hiring for Freelance Embedded Firmware Engineer jobs?

Cities near Boston, MA with the most Freelance Embedded Firmware Engineer job openings:

Freelance Embedded Firmware Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Freelance Embedded Firmware Engineer job openings in Boston, MA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 6% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $132,549 per year, or $63.7 per hour.

Engineer: Sr. Embedded Firmware Engineer (Rust and C)

Nanobiosym

Cambridge, MA

$112K - $154K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 24 days ago

Job description


Job Title: Sr. Embedded Firmware Engineer (Rust and C)
Position Overview:

We are seeking an experienced Sr. embedded firmware engineer with a strong background in Rust to help re-design and port existing firmware into Rust. This role focuses on designing for manufacture and scale secure, high-performance firmware for ARM CortexM and other microcontrollers while implementing hardware abstraction layers and ensuring robust board bringup for novel platforms.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Firmware Architecture & Security:

    • Assist in designing and implementing a secure firmware architecture with robust secure update mechanisms.

    • Develop and integrate secure firmware modules leveraging best practices and industry standards.

  • Hardware Abstraction and Peripheral Integration:

    • Implement HALs and drivers for unsupported peripherals and features.

    • Port or integrate lowlevel drivers for Bluetooth, cellular, and other communication modules.

  • System Bring-Up & Application Code:

    • Contribute to board bringup tasks using Rust.

    • Develop firmware application code and new Rust crates for unsupported SoCs as needed.

  • Rapid Prototyping & UI Framework Selection and bring products to market:

    • Evaluate and select an embedded GUI framework that supports rapid prototyping for UI needs. As well as late stage development to DFM and transition product to scale and final product launch

  • Collaboration & Documentation:

    • Work closely and communicate clearly with team to document designs, review code, and ensure compliance with security and performance guidelines.

Qualifications:

  • Essential:

    • Proven expertise with highperformance ARM CortexM and other microcontrollers.

    • Extensive experience with baremetal programming and embedded systems.

    • Demonstrated experience designing and developing secure firmware.

    • Proficiency in Rust, particularly in board bringup and lowlevel hardware interaction.

  • Preferred:

    • Familiarity with the Rust embassy framework.

    • Handson experience with Arm TrustZone.

    • Experience in writing Rust crates for unsupported SoCs.

    • Solid understanding of secure firmware update protocols and architecture.

    • Experience with medical device compliance and documentation as per FDA and ISO13485 standards
    • PhD or MS / ME in EECS

What We Offer:

  • An innovative work environment tackling challenging embedded systems projects.

  • Opportunities for professional growth in secure firmware development and advanced embedded technologies.

  • Competitive salary and benefits package.


Apply