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Freelance Embedded System Software Engineer Jobs in North Reading, MA

Embedded Software Engineer

Cambridge, MA ยท On-site

$90K - $210K/yr

As an Embedded Software Engineer at MORSE, you will be developing software to support Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) R&D programs. In this role, you will be involved with all aspects of the ...

Embedded Software Engineer III

Boston, MA ยท On-site

$143K - $188K/yr

Develop and maintain embedded software for custom flight avionics and ground support systems ... Collaborate with GNC engineers to implement and validate flight control and navigation algorithms.

Embedded Software Engineer - DPU Platform

Westford, MA ยท On-site

$136K - $179K/yr

Develop system software components such as processor firmware, boot-loaders, kernel drivers/modules ... Engineering or equivalent experience 2+ years of experience in developing software for embedded ...

Linux Embedded Software Engineer

Burlington, MA ยท On-site +1

$143K - $188K/yr

Developer for C/C++ for micro-controller, Linux, and/or Android embedded systems. Work with an ... Qualifications Qualifications: - Minimum, Bachelors Degree in Electrical, Computer, or Software ...

Android Embedded Software Engineer

Burlington, MA ยท On-site +1

$143K - $188K/yr

Developer for C/C++ for micro-controller, Linux, and/or Android embedded systems. Work with an ... Qualifications Qualifications: - Minimum, Bachelors Degree in Electrical, Computer, or Software ...

Showing results 41-60

Freelance Embedded System Software Engineer information

See North Reading, MA salary details

$72.9K

$159.6K

$181.1K

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

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for freelance embedded system software engineer in North Reading, MA is $159,631.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $136,900.00 and $180,000.00 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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a freelance embedded system software engineer?

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.

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 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.

What are popular job titles related to Freelance Embedded System Software Engineer jobs in North Reading, MA?

For Freelance Embedded System Software Engineer jobs in North Reading, MA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Freelance Embedded System Software Engineer jobs in North Reading, MA look for?

The top searched job categories for Freelance Embedded System Software Engineer jobs in North Reading, MA are:

What cities near North Reading, MA are hiring for Freelance Embedded System Software Engineer jobs?

Cities near North Reading, MA with the most Freelance Embedded System Software Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Freelance Embedded System Software Engineer job openings in North Reading, MA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 72% In-person, 14% Hybrid, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $159,631 per year, or $76.7 per hour.

Embedded Software Engineer

MORSE Corp

Cambridge, MA โ€ข On-site

$90K - $210K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 13 days ago


Job description

MORSE Corp is an employee owned, small business based in Cambridge, MA, Arlington, VA, and Seattle, WA with a history of fielding cutting-edge technology. MORSE boasts a specially selected team of scientists, engineers, and software developers to deliver best-in-class technical solutions that solve difficult multidisciplinary problems faced by the US National Security Ecosystem.
As an Embedded Software Engineer at MORSE, you will be developing software to support Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) R&D programs. In this role, you will be involved with all aspects of the engineering design cycle from concept through deployment.
Your responsibilities will include integrating novel algorithms with flight software to introduce new capabilities for autonomous aircraft, setting up and performing simulations to support integration efforts, and supporting flight tests to evaluate algorithm performance. You will play a critical role in flight testing by defining test objectives, configuring software on aircraft avionics, and operating ground stations to monitor and control aircraft in flight.
Working alongside experts in sensing and control technologies, you will help integrate cutting-edge capabilities into novel platforms and support testing in both lab and field environments. In this position, you are motivated to focus on the intersection of the user, software, and hardware to ensure that deployed autonomous systems can execute their mission successfully while exceeding the customer's expectations.
Responsibilities
  • Develop embedded software for novel fixed wing and multi-rotor unmanned aerial vehicles
  • Developing new software functionality for autonomous UAV flight by modifying PX4 autopilot with new software
  • Integrating novel autonomy algorithms into UAV flight software, migrating from Python to C/C++ if necessary
  • Updating and executing simulation software to test and evaluate novel algorithms
  • Supporting the development of preflight planning tools in Python that interface with data and UI tools via web API
  • Interface with technology SMEs to integration new algorithms and subsystems into vehicle platforms.
  • Support flight tests of UAS and UAVs. Including setup, system checkouts, ground station operation, log retrieval and analysis, and debugging.
  • Communicate design status, test results, and suggestions in a timely and efficient manner

Requirements
The ideal candidate will have a strong and diverse background with an emphasis on software development for embedded systems. Prior experience working on multi-disciplinary projects that exist at the confluence of mechanical, electrical, systems, and software engineering is strongly desired. Finally, the ideal candidate should be able to decompose complex problems into their constituent components, devise plans for executing each piece of the problem, and follow-through on solution development, test, and verification.
  • BS or MS in Software Engineering, Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or related field
  • 5+ years of embedded software development and experience deploying embedded software
  • Strong proficiency with C/C++, Python, and Rust
  • Familiarity with PX4, Ardupilot, or similar. Integration into commercial platforms and configuration for flight.
  • Experience with RTOS and embedded communication protocols (UART, I2C, CAN, etc)
  • Experience with control hardware setup. Examples include telemetry harness setup, radio configuration, power system installation and monitoring
  • Strong debugging and troubleshooting skills
  • Willingness and desire to travel for, and participate in, field tests up to 10% of each year
  • US CITIZENSHIP REQUIRED and ability to obtain a U.S. Security Clearance

MORSE Corp's salary range for this role carefully considers a wide range of compensation factors, including but not limited to, prior experience, education, skills and expertise, location, internal equity, and other factors that are job related and consistent with business need. Therefore, final offer amounts may vary from the amount stated. Depending on role eligibility, total compensation may also include bonus, stock, 401(k) match, paid time off, medical, dental, vision and life insurance.
Employees also receive 10 paid holidays per year. MORSE maintains an "open" leave policy that does not restrict exempt, regular full-time employees to a specific number of paid sick or vacation days. However, this policy is not an "unlimited" paid leave policy.
Compensation
$90,000-$210,000 USD
The team at MORSE takes pride in being the smart team that is easy to work with. We focus on steady, long-term success with an emphasis on exceptionalism and delivering mission-critical impact to our customers. For more information, please visit www.morsecorp.com.