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Freelance Embedded Firmware Engineer Jobs in Santa Rosa, CA

Apple

Wireless SOC FW Engineer

Bodega Bay, CA

$122K - $214K/yr

... embedded software for System on a Chip (SoC) bring up and test. You will work closely with the Software Engineering team ensuring the quality of their firmware for manufacturability ...

Apple

Wireless SOC FW Engineer

Bodega Bay, CA

$129K - $225K/yr

Responsible for crafting and implementing embedded firmware for SoC bring up and wireless connectivity enablement. You will work closely with the Software Engineering teams ensuring the quality of ...

Apple

Wireless SOC FW Engineer

Bodega Bay, CA

$122K - $214K/yr

... embedded software for System on a Chip (SoC) bring up and test. You will work closely with the Software Engineering team ensuring the quality of their firmware for manufacturability ...

Apple

Firmware Validation Engineer

Bodega Bay, CA

$184K - $324K/yr

Proficiency in programming with python and C. Knowledgable with hardware/firmware development life ... Understanding of embedded SW fundamentals and low-level hardware interfaces. Strong wireless/PHY ...

Apple

EE Design & Test Engineer

Bodega Bay, CA

$175K - $308K/yr

You will develop the software interfaces that expose test hardware functionality to higher-level automation tools, and work closely with firmware and embedded software engineers where dedicated ...

Apple

EE Design & Test Engineer

Bodega Bay, CA

$175K - $308K/yr

You will develop the software interfaces that expose test hardware functionality to higher-level automation tools, and work closely with firmware and embedded software engineers where dedicated ...

Apple

EE Design & Test Engineer

Bodega Bay, CA

$122K - $214K/yr

You will develop the software interfaces that expose test hardware functionality to higher-level automation tools, and work closely with firmware and embedded software engineers where dedicated ...

Apple

EE Design & Test Engineer

Bodega Bay, CA

$122K - $214K/yr

You will develop the software interfaces that expose test hardware functionality to higher-level automation tools, and work closely with firmware and embedded software engineers where dedicated ...

Arete Associates

Electrical Engineer

Healdsburg, CA · On-site

$100K - $145K/yr

... embedded electronics, and complex system integration. The ideal candidate has experience leading or ... mechanical, software, firmware, systems, manufacturing, and program management teams. The ...

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All JobsEmbedded Firmware Engineer JobsFreelance Embedded Firmware Engineer JobsFreelance Embedded Firmware Engineer Jobs in Santa Rosa, CA

Freelance Embedded Firmware Engineer information

See Santa Rosa, CA salary details

$80.4K

$133.4K

$179.3K

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

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average yearly pay for freelance embedded firmware engineer in Santa Rosa, CA is $133,395.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $112,600.00 and $154,200.00 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 job categories do people searching Freelance Embedded Firmware Engineer jobs in Santa Rosa, CA look for?

The top searched job categories for Freelance Embedded Firmware Engineer jobs in Santa Rosa, CA are:

What cities near Santa Rosa, CA are hiring for Freelance Embedded Firmware Engineer jobs?

Cities near Santa Rosa, CA 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 Santa Rosa, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $133,395 per year, or $64.1 per hour.

Firmware & Sensors Engineer, Home and Audio Devices

Apple

Bodega Bay, CA

$150K - $277K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Retirement

Re-posted 15 days ago

Apple rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 677 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

7th of 30 rated technology retailers

Job description

The team is looking for a skilled and motivated individual that will be responsible to create sensing based experiences for Home and Audio products of the future. The ideal candidate will have broad knowledge in a number of sensing devices and technologies to coincide with firmware capabilities necessary to make the sensor become an experience. Apply today!
Description
Genuine passion for innovation and product development with experience from inception through delivery to customers. The Firmware Engineer will be individually responsible for all things firmware and sensing related. Architect, design, develop and maintain hardware and firmware for Apple home and audio products. The individual will be also responsible for the overall sensor integration in the product and insuring the highest quality execution to launch amazing new product features.
Preferred Qualifications
Experience with calibration and system builds in factory is a plus.
Excellent interpersonal skills, including the ability to work across the organization and interact, influence and negotiate effectively at all levels of management.
Obsessively passionate and inquisitive, and seek to solve everyday problems in innovative ways.
Minimum Qualifications
M.S. in EE, CE, CS, or equivalent industry experience
8+ years of firmware and device driver development in bare-metal or RTOS environments, ideally in consumer electronics.
5+ years of sensing system hardware engineering experience such as optical, IMU, capacitive, environmental, light, motion, radar, acoustic, etc.
Proven experience in a leadership role, showcasing strong decision-making and team management abilities.
Strong coding skills in C, C++, Python.
Ability to optimize software for resource constrained embedded systems (e.g. power, throughput, memory/compute).
Must have hands-on experience in rapid prototyping, hardware bring-up, software feature design and development.
Able to go learn how to quantify and test new technologies.
Availability to travel domestically and internationally for development and on-site manufacturing support is also expected.
Pay & Benefits
At Apple, base pay is one part of our total compensation package and is determined within a range. This provides the opportunity to progress as you grow and develop within a role. The base pay range for this role is between $150,400 and $277,600, and your base pay will depend on your skills, qualifications, experience, and location.
Apple employees also have the opportunity to become an Apple shareholder through participation in Apple's discretionary employee stock programs. Apple employees are eligible for discretionary restricted stock unit awards, and can purchase Apple stock at a discount if voluntarily participating in Apple's Employee Stock Purchase Plan. You'll also receive benefits including: Comprehensive medical and dental coverage, retirement benefits, a range of discounted products and free services, and for formal education related to advancing your career at Apple, reimbursement for certain educational expenses - including tuition. Additionally, this role might be eligible for discretionary bonuses or commission payments as well as relocation. Learn more about Apple Benefits
Note: Apple benefit, compensation and employee stock programs are subject to eligibility requirements and other terms of the applicable plan or program.

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About Apple

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Imagine what you could do here! At Apple, new ideas have a way of becoming extraordinary products, services, and customer experiences very quickly. Bring passion and dedication to your job and there's no telling what you could accomplish. Dynamic, intelligent people and inspiring, innovative technologies are the norm here. The people who work here have reinvented entire industries with all Apple Hardware products. The same real passion for innovation that goes into our products also applies to our practices strengthening our dedication to leave the world better than we found it.

Industry

Computer and electronic product manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Cupertino, CA, US

Year founded

1976

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