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Freelance Embedded Software Engineer Jobs in Madison, WI

About Software Engineering Roles at Danaher Are you passionate about building real-world ... Supporting the development of console and embedded software systems * Troubleshooting issues and ...

About Software Engineering Roles at Danaher Are you passionate about building real-world ... Supporting the development of console and embedded software systems * Troubleshooting issues and ...

Software Engineer II

Madison, WI · Hybrid

$98K - $134K/yr

Our embedded software engineers craft and innovate on truly unique complex controls platforms. As part of our team, you will be responsible for building high quality and complex software features ...

Software Engineer II

Madison, WI · On-site

$98K - $134K/yr

Our embedded software engineers craft and innovate on truly unique complex controls platforms. As part of our team, you will be responsible for building high quality and complex software features ...

FPGA Engineer

Madison, WI

$131K - $168K/yr

Apply Now RTL, C/C++, Python, VHDL, Verilog, Tcl, cryptography, hardware, embedded software, System ... S. Government Security Clearance FPGA Engineer The EndoSec FPGA Engineer is responsible for the ...

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Freelance Embedded Software Engineer information

See Madison, WI salary details

$70.5K

$154.6K

$175.3K

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

As of Jul 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for freelance embedded software engineer in Madison, WI is $154,553.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $132,500.00 and $174,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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 Madison, WI? The most popular types of Embedded Software Engineer jobs in Madison, WI are:
What cities near Madison, WI are hiring for Freelance Embedded Software Engineer jobs? Cities near Madison, WI with the most Freelance Embedded Software Engineer job openings:

$125K - $163K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 23 days ago


Job description

Primary Responsibilities:
 
Our embedded software engineers craft and innovate on truly unique and sophisticated controls platforms. As part of our team, you will be responsible for building high-quality software features daily. Additionally, you'll work alongside other talented software engineers to coordinate and develop multiple software platforms employed in various appliances. This includes requirements development and management, team coding, process growth, and continuing to build on our automated test platforms. Much of this role is spent focusing on the delivery and innovation of internal and external code bases. In support of those primary development efforts, you’ll work with internal customers from a wide variety of disciplines alongside your teammates to support other teams and engineers.
  • Ability to independently contribute to corporate appliance software platforms.
  • Provide requirement feedback and support for New Product Development engineers.
  • Develop detailed architectural and design documentation.
  • Engage in collaborative coding and development.
  • Design and perform unit and system-level testing.
  • Debug software and hardware with electronics testbench equipment.
  • Actively participate in code reviews and pull requests.
  • Innovate with a focus on quality and value over speed and newness.
  • Assist manufacturing personnel in the production environment.
Required Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's degree in computer engineering or related
  • 5+ years embedded software experience
  • Familiarity with development environments, build and version control systems, and continuous integrations/continuous deployment
  • Proficiency in C/C++ 17 (and up): Essential for developing and maintaining our embedded appliance controls
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills
  • Collaborative mindset
Preferred Qualifications:
  • Familiarity with CMake, VSCode, Visual Studio, GIT, and Azure DevOps
  • Experience with FreeRTOS on ST Micros
  • Familiarity with Python, CAN and RS485
  • Proficiency with Oscilloscopes, DMMs, Function Generators, and Programmable Power supplies

We value our employees by providing:

  • Competitive compensation based on skills
  • Industry leading health, dental, and vision plans
  • Generous 401 (K) savings and profit sharing
  • On-site UW Health clinic, fitness center, and walking paths
  • Education assistance and internal training programs
  • Electric vehicle charging
  • Maternity & paternity leave
  • Interested in learning more on our robust benefits package we offer? Click here!

This position requires a pre-employment drug/alcohol test and background check, which will be administered after a conditional job offer is extended. A negative drug/alcohol test result is required for employment. Refusal to take the test or a positive result may disqualify a candidate from further consideration.  All drug testing will be conducted in accordance with federal and state laws.