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Freelance Embedded System Software Engineer Jobs in Merrimack, NH

Johnson Controls

Embedded Software Engineer II

Westford, MA · On-site

$136K - $179K/yr

Collaborate with hardware, systems, and test engineers to integrate software with embedded ... platforms. * Develop and maintain technical documentation, including software design specifications ...

Johnson Controls

Embedded Software Engineer II

Westford, MA · Hybrid

$136K - $179K/yr

Collaborate with hardware, systems, and test engineers to integrate software with embedded ... platforms. * Develop and maintain technical documentation, including software design specifications ...

Raytheon Technologies

Embedded Developer LynxOS

Tewksbury, MA · On-site

$141K - $186K/yr

... LynxOS and RHEL Linux embedded operating systems * Work with application developers to add ... Experience with system initialization software development. * Experience with POSIX APIs and other ...

Nvidia

Software Engineer - DPU Platform

Westford, MA

Using your expertise in embedded platforms, operating systems, and software distribution, you will ... Bachelor's degree in Computer Science/Engineering or equivalent experience * 2+ years of experience ...

Raytheon

Embedded Developer LynxOS

Tewksbury, MA

$141K - $186K/yr

... LynxOS and RHEL Linux embedded operating systems * Work with application developers to add ... Experience with system initialization software development. * Experience with POSIX APIs and other ...

Raytheon

Embedded Developer LynxOS

Tewksbury, MA

$141K - $186K/yr

... LynxOS and RHEL Linux embedded operating systems * Work with application developers to add ... Experience with system initialization software development. * Experience with POSIX APIs and other ...

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All JobsEmbedded System Software Engineer JobsFreelance Embedded System Software Engineer JobsFreelance Embedded System Software Engineer Jobs in Merrimack, NH

Freelance Embedded System Software Engineer information

See Merrimack, NH salary details

$71.7K

$157K

$178.1K

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

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for freelance embedded system software engineer in Merrimack, NH is $157,042.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $134,600.00 and $177,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a Freelance Embedded System Software Engineer do?

A Freelance Embedded System Software Engineer designs, develops, and tests software that runs on embedded systems, which are specialized computing systems within larger devices like cars, appliances, or industrial machines. They typically work independently or on a contract basis, collaborating with clients to understand requirements and deliver customized software solutions. Their responsibilities often include writing low-level code, optimizing for performance and memory usage, and troubleshooting hardware-software integration issues.

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

AspectFreelance Embedded System Software EngineerEmbedded Firmware Developer
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in electrical engineering, computer science, or related fields; certifications are optionalSimilar educational background; certifications like Certified Embedded Systems Engineer can be advantageous
Work EnvironmentIndependent, project-based work often remote; collaborates with multiple clientsUsually employed by a company or works on in-house projects; may work on-site or remotely
Industry UsageUsed across various industries including IoT, automotive, consumer electronicsPrimarily in product development, consumer electronics, automotive, and industrial systems

Both roles require embedded programming skills and knowledge of hardware. The main difference lies in the work setting: Freelance Embedded System Software Engineers work independently on diverse projects, while Embedded Firmware Developers are often employed by companies focusing on firmware development for specific products.

How do freelance embedded system software engineers typically manage project scope and communication with clients?

Freelance embedded system software engineers often work independently or as part of small remote teams, making clear communication and project scope management essential. They regularly use project management tools and set milestones to clarify deliverables and timelines with clients. Addressing technical constraints and hardware integration challenges early in the process helps avoid misunderstandings. Frequent status updates and transparent discussions about changes or obstacles ensure projects stay on track and meet client expectations.

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

To thrive as a Freelance Embedded System Software Engineer, you need a solid background in embedded C/C++ programming, microcontroller architecture, and real-time operating systems, often supported by a degree in electrical engineering or computer science. Familiarity with hardware debugging tools, version control systems (like Git), and development platforms such as ARM, AVR, or PIC is typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, self-motivation, and clear client communication help freelancers stand out in this role. These competencies ensure reliable, efficient solutions and successful project delivery in dynamic and client-driven environments.
What job categories do people searching Freelance Embedded System Software Engineer jobs in Merrimack, NH look for? The top searched job categories for Freelance Embedded System Software Engineer jobs in Merrimack, NH are:
What cities near Merrimack, NH are hiring for Freelance Embedded System Software Engineer jobs? Cities near Merrimack, NH with the most Freelance Embedded System Software Engineer job openings:
Freelance Embedded System Software Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Freelance Embedded System Software Engineer job openings in Merrimack, NH as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $157,042 per year, or $75.5 per hour.
Principal Embedded Software Engineer

Principal Embedded Software Engineer

Johnson Controls

Westford, MA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 17 days ago

Johnson Controls rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 401 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

133rd of 535 rated manufacturers

Job description

Build your best future with the Johnson Controls team!
As a global leader in smart, healthy, and sustainable buildings, our mission is to reimagine the performance of buildings to serve people, places, and the planet. Join a winning team that enables you to build your best future! Our teams are uniquely positioned to support a multitude of industries across the globe. You will have the opportunity to develop yourself through meaningful work projects and learning opportunities. We strive to provide our employees with an experience focused on supporting their physical, financial, and emotional well-being. Become a member of the Johnson Controls family and thrive in an empowering company culture where your voice and ideas will be heard - your next great opportunity is just a few clicks away!
What we offer:
  • Competitive Salary

  • Paid vacation/holidays/sick time

  • Comprehensive benefits package including 401K, medical, dental, and vision care

  • On the job/cross training opportunities

  • Encouraging and collaborative team environment

  • Dedication to safety through our Zero Harm policy

Our global Fire Detection product group located in Westford, MA, offers you the possibility to interact with other development centers and teams around the world! The opportunity for professional development and career opportunities are endless, given our broad portfolio of products and services within Fire Detection. Work/life balance is important to us, and we offer a flexible hybrid work model. You will also get exposure to leading edge technology, exciting projects, and life-saving products that promote global safety of not only facilities, but people. We need your talent and ideas, as we continue to grow and expand our strategic focus and build state of the art fire detection systems. To learn more about our Principal Embedded Software Engineer opportunity, keep reading!
Position Summary
We are seeking a highly experienced Principal Embedded Software Engineer to provide technical leadership in the design, development, and delivery of embedded software solutions for complex products and systems. This role serves as a recognized technical expert, driving software architecture, technology strategy, and engineering excellence across multiple programs. The ideal candidate combines deep hands-on embedded software expertise with strong leadership, mentoring, and cross-functional collaboration skills.
Key Responsibilities
Technical Leadership
  • Define and drive the embedded software architecture, design standards, and development best practices.

  • Lead technical decision-making for embedded systems, including RTOS, Linux-based platforms, device drivers, middleware, networking, and application software.

  • Serve as the highest level of technical escalation for complex software issues.

  • Evaluate and introduce emerging technologies, tools, and methodologies to improve product quality and development efficiency.

  • Drive software quality, reliability, safety, security, and maintainability throughout the product lifecycle.

Software Development
  • Participate in requirements analysis and system-level tradeoff decisions.

  • Lead implementation of complex features and critical software components.

  • Perform code reviews and ensure adherence to coding standards and software development processes.

  • Optimize software performance, memory utilization, power consumption, and system reliability.

  • Ensure scalability, reuse, and long-term maintainability of software platforms.

Project & Team Leadership
  • Mentor senior and junior engineers across the organization.

  • Lead technical planning, risk management, and estimation activities.

  • Influence engineering roadmaps and strategic technology direction.

  • Support project execution by identifying technical risks and mitigation strategies.

  • Foster a culture of innovation, technical excellence, and continuous improvement.

  • Collaborate with hardware, firmware, systems, validation, cybersecurity, and product teams.

Required Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or a related technical field.

  • 10+ years of embedded software development experience.

  • Extensive experience programming in C and C++.

  • Strong expertise in embedded system architecture and software design principles.

  • Experience with Real-Time Operating Systems (RTOS) and Embedded Linux.

  • Strong understanding of microcontrollers, processors, memory architectures, and hardware/software interfaces.

  • Experience with communication protocols such as:

  • Ethernet, TCP/IP, CAN/CAN-FD, SPI, I2C, UART, USB

  • Proficiency with debugging tools, oscilloscopes, logic analyzers, and software analysis tools.

  • Experience with software version control systems (GitHub preferred).

  • Strong analytical, troubleshooting, and problem-solving skills.

  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Master's degree in Engineering, Computer Science, or related field.

  • Experience with safety-critical or regulated systems.

  • Knowledge of cybersecurity principles for embedded systems.

  • Experience with model-based design and auto-code generation tools.

  • Familiarity with Agile/Scrum development methodologies.

  • Experience leading geographically distributed engineering teams.

  • Knowledge of cloud-connected and IoT-enabled embedded devices.

  • Experience with CI/CD pipelines, automated testing, and DevOps practices.

Technical Expertise
The successful candidate will demonstrate expertise in several of the following areas:
  • Embedded Linux

  • FreeRTOS, VxWorks, QNX, ThreadX, or similar RTOS platforms

  • Device driver development

  • Board Support Packages (BSP)

  • Bootloaders and secure boot

  • Networking and communications protocols

  • Multi-threaded and concurrent programming

  • Cybersecurity and secure software development

  • Software architecture and design patterns

  • Functional safety standards (IEC 61508, ISO 26262, IEC 62304, etc.)

  • Software verification and validation

Leadership Expectations
  • Recognized technical authority within the organization.

  • Influences engineering strategy and technology roadmaps.

  • Guides architectural decisions across multiple product lines.

  • Mentors engineers and develops technical talent.

  • Drives engineering best practices and continuous improvement initiatives.

  • Builds strong partnerships across software, hardware, systems, quality, and product management teams.

Success Metrics
  • Delivery of high-quality, reliable embedded software solutions.

  • Successful implementation of scalable software architectures.

  • Reduction in software defects and technical debt.

  • Improved engineering productivity and development efficiency.

  • Growth and development of engineering talent.

  • Achievement of project, product, and business objectives.

SALARY RANGE: $117,000 - $196,000 (Salary to be determined by the education, experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities of the applicant, internal equity, and alignment with market data.) This role offers a competitive Bonus plan that will take into account individual, group, and corporate performance. This position includes a competitive benefits package. The posted salary range reflects the target compensation for this role. However, we recognize that exceptional candidates may bring unique skills and experiences that exceed the typical profile. If you believe your background warrants consideration beyond the stated range, we encourage you to apply. To support an efficient and fair hiring process, we may use technology assisted tools, including artificial intelligence (AI), to help identify and evaluate candidates. All hiring decisions are ultimately made by human reviewers. For details, please visit the About Us tab on the Johnson Controls Careers site at https://jobs.johnsoncontrols.com/about-us
Johnson Controls International plc. is an equal employment opportunity and affirmative action employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, protected veteran status, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity, status as a qualified individual with a disability or any other characteristic protected by law. To view more information about your equal opportunity and non-discrimination rights as a candidate, visit EEO is the Law. If you are an individual with a disability and you require an accommodation during the application process, please visit here.

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About Johnson Controls

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Johnson Controls is a world leader in smart buildings, creating safe, healthy and sustainable spaces. For nearly 140 years, we’ve made buildings better and now we’re transforming them again with our award-winning digital technologies and services. We’re using artificial intelligence and data driven solutions to give you deeper insight into your building’s health, sustainability and performance. It’s changing the way we design, operate and maintain indoor environments and driving to a new era of autonomous buildings. We deliver the blueprint of the future for industries such as healthcare, schools, data centers, airports, stadiums, hotels, manufacturing and beyond through OpenBlue, our comprehensive suite of connected solutions. Johnson Controls offers the world’s largest portfolio of building technology, software and services. Supported by a team of more than 100,000 dedicated employees working across 150 countries, we’re helping customers achieve their sustainability goals and power their mission.

Industry

Machinery manufacturing, water transportation, public safety statistics centers and offices and manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Milwaukee, WI, US

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