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Freelance Embedded Software Engineer Jobs in Edmonton, AB

About the Role The Senior Software Engineer is a hands-on technical contributor embedded in our agile development organization, helping build and deliver our next-gen compliance platform. You bring ...

... software. What Your Ride Will Look Like:Cloud & Platform Reliability * Own and evolve our AWS ... Support distributed Linux-based hardware deployed in the field: physical servers, embedded devices ...

Degree or Diploma in Engineering, Construction Management, or a related technical field ... tools may be integrated or embedded in third-party platforms and software. Some of Chandos ...

Freelance Embedded Software Engineer information

What is a freelance embedded software engineer?

A Freelance Embedded Software Engineer is a professional who designs, develops, tests, and maintains software that operates on embedded systems, such as microcontrollers and specialized hardware, while working independently or on a contract basis. Unlike full-time employees, freelancers typically work with multiple clients on a project-by-project basis. Their responsibilities often include writing firmware, optimizing code for hardware constraints, and integrating software with electronic components. Freelancers in this field enjoy flexibility and variety in their work, but are also responsible for managing their own business operations.

What are some common challenges freelance embedded software engineers face when working with multiple clients?

Freelance embedded software engineers often juggle several projects simultaneously, each with unique hardware platforms, toolchains, and client expectations. Managing communication across different time zones and ensuring clear documentation for handoffs can be challenging. Additionally, freelancers must quickly adapt to varying development environments and maintain up-to-date knowledge of industry standards to deliver quality solutions. Effective organization and transparent project management are key to overcoming these hurdles.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a freelance embedded software engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Freelance Embedded Software Engineer, you need a strong background in computer science or electrical engineering, proficiency in embedded C/C++, and experience with microcontrollers or real-time operating systems. Familiarity with development tools such as Keil, IAR, or Eclipse, version control systems like Git, and relevant certifications (e.g., ARM Accredited Engineer) are highly valued. Excellent problem-solving skills, self-motivation, and strong communication are crucial for managing diverse client projects and remote collaborations. These skills ensure you can deliver reliable, efficient solutions tailored to client needs while maintaining professional autonomy and quality standards.

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

AspectFreelance Embedded Software EngineerEmbedded Software Developer
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in computer engineering or related field, with certifications like ARM or RTOS expertiseSimilar credentials, often with certifications in embedded systems or specific platforms
Work EnvironmentIndependent, project-based, often remote or client-siteUsually employed by companies, working in teams within offices or labs
Industry UsageFreelance market for custom projects, consulting, or short-term contractsFull-time or contract roles within tech, automotive, medical, or consumer electronics industries

While both roles require embedded systems knowledge and similar credentials, a Freelance Embedded Software Engineer works independently on diverse projects, often remotely, whereas an Embedded Software Developer is typically employed by a company, working within a team on ongoing product development.

What are the most commonly searched types of Embedded Software Engineer jobs in Edmonton, AB?

The most popular types of Embedded Software Engineer jobs in Edmonton, AB are:

Infographic showing various Freelance Embedded Software Engineer job openings in Edmonton, AB as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 84% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution.

Software Developer/Engineer - Digital Completion Solutions

Edmonton, AB • On-site

NOV, Inc.
Oil and Gas Extraction • 10K+ employees

Full-time

Medical, Retirement

Posted 24 days ago


NOV rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 72 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

NOV's Cranesmart and Rigsmart businesses develop wireless safety, monitoring, and data-acquisition solutions for cranes, drilling, workover, and snubbing operations. Our products help protect personnel and equipment, reduce non-productive time, and improve operational visibility in demanding environments.

We are seeking an intermediate-to-senior Embedded Software Developer or Engineer to support the continued development and modernization of the LMI5 platform serving both Cranesmart and Rigsmart products. The LMI5 is a touchscreen display, wireless receiver, and control module that presents critical operating information, warnings, and safety-related functions to crane operators.

This is a hands-on role focused primarily on leading development of embedded software and firmware. The successful candidate will contribute throughout the product lifecycle, from requirements and implementation through testing, release, troubleshooting, and field deployment. The position level will be based on the candidate's experience and demonstrated technical leadership.

Qualifications

  • Diploma or degree in computer engineering, computer science, software engineering, electrical engineering, or a related discipline-or equivalent relevant experience.
  • Five or more years of embedded software or firmware development experience.
  • Strong C and C++ skills on microcontroller or resource-constrained platforms.
  • Experience with embedded communications such as CAN bus, Modbus, TCP/IP, serial, MQTT, OPC UA, or TLS.
  • Experience with real-time systems, device drivers, sensor integration, touchscreen interfaces, industrial controls, or safety-related applications.
  • Familiarity with embedded interfaces such as GPIO, UART, IC, SPI, and PWM.
  • Experience with debugging, logging, automated testing, Git-based workflows, and maintaining legacy embedded applications.
  • Strong problem-solving, communication, organizational, and cross-functional collaboration skills.
  • Ability to work safely in industrial environments and travel when required.
  • For candidates hired under an Engineer classification, eligibility for registration with APEGA is required. A P.Eng. designation is an asset but is not mandatory.

Preferred method of application and to view all opportunities visit:  https://www.nov.com/Careers

NOV is an Equal Opportunity Employer and Prohibits Discrimination or Harassment of Any Kind: NOV is committed to the principle of equal employment opportunities for everyone and to providing employees with a work environment free of discrimination and harassment. National Oilwell Varco values inclusion and diversity; we encourage all qualified candidates to apply.
With over 40 different locations in Canada, and 35,000 people worldwide, NOV is proud to offer their employees competitive pay and excellent benefits, Employer retirement plan contributions, Health Spending account and employer paid premiums. We are also proud to provide on the job training, with potential for advancement within our organization and an Educational Assistance Program

NOV thanks all interested applicants, however only those selected for interview will be contacted. 

 Why join us?

You will help develop and modernize field-proven technology that directly supports crane and rig safety. This role offers meaningful technical ownership, exposure to the complete software lifecycle, and the opportunity to see your work operate in real-world industrial applications.

Responsibilities

  • Design, develop, test, and maintain embedded software and firmware for the LMI5 and related Cranesmart and Rigsmart products.
  • Develop application logic, communication interfaces, diagnostics, touchscreen functionality, and integration with wireless and wired sensors.
  • Maintain and modernize existing software while improving performance, reliability, security, maintainability, and fault handling.
  • Troubleshoot complex software, timing, sensor-data, wireless, networking, and communication issues.
  • Develop and support device configuration, logging, diagnostics, provisioning, and over-the-air or offline software updates.
  • Create technical documentation and automated or manual tests, and participate in code reviews, root-cause investigations, and product releases.
  • Collaborate with product, engineering, manufacturing, service, and customer-facing teams; mentor less-experienced developers as appropriate.
  • Occasionally travel to customer locations for field testing, troubleshooting, and first-article installations.

What NOV employees say

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About NOV

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Throughout every region in the world and across every area of drilling and production, our family of companies has provided the technical expertise, advanced equipment and operational support necessary for success. We have the people, capabilities and vision to serve the needs of a challenging and evolving industry. One the world can’t live without. We are a global family of thousands of individuals, working as one team to create lasting impact for ourselves, our customers and the communities where we live and work. We take responsibility for each other and our company’s future, knowing that personal ownership leads to broader success. We believe in purposeful innovation because we see what others do not and we act. Through business innovation, product creation and service delivery, we are driven to power the industry that powers the world better.

Industry

Oil and gas extraction

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Houston, TX, US

Year founded

1841