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Freelance Embedded System Software Engineer Jobs in Waltham, MA

Draper

Embedded Software Engineer

Cambridge, MA · On-site

$75 - $156/hr

Summary:The Embedded Software Engineer 2 provides technical expertise and leadership for the ... Technical areas include the development of embedded software for imaging systems, device, process ...

Draper

Embedded Software Engineer

Cambridge, MA · On-site

$75K - $156K/yr

Our multidisciplinary teams of engineers and scientists work in a collaborative environment that ... Technical areas include the development of embedded software for imaging systems, device, process ...

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 ...

Draper

Embedded Software Engineer

Cambridge, MA · On-site

$75K - $156K/yr

Our multidisciplinary teams of engineers and scientists work in a collaborative environment that ... Codes, debugs, and tests system software. Performs embedded software and multi-platform software ...

MORSE Corp

Embedded Software Engineer

Cambridge, MA · On-site

$143K - $189K/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 ...

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 ...

Experis

Embedded Software Engineer

Andover, MA · On-site

$132K - $174K/yr

Embedded Software Engineer Location: Andover, MA (ONSITE) What's the Job ... Designing and developing device-to-cloud connectivity modules for embedded systems * Implementing ...

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All JobsEmbedded System Software Engineer JobsFreelance Embedded System Software Engineer JobsFreelance Embedded System Software Engineer Jobs in Waltham, MA

Freelance Embedded System Software Engineer information

See Waltham, MA salary details

$75.5K

$165.5K

$187.7K

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

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for freelance embedded system software engineer in Waltham, MA is $165,478.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $141,900.00 and $186,600.00 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 the most commonly searched types of Embedded System Software Engineer jobs in Waltham, MA?

The most popular types of Embedded System Software Engineer jobs in Waltham, MA are:

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

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

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

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

Freelance Embedded System Software Engineer jobs near you

Software Engineer, Embedded Systems

MatrixSpace

Burlington, MA • On-site

$90 - $120/hr

Other

Re-posted 13 days ago

Job description

Help bring AI and machine learning capabilities to embedded edge platforms by building high-performance software that runs close to the hardware.

MatrixSpace develops AI-enabled radar and sensing systems that help people understand what's happening in the world around them. By combining advanced radar, edge computing, and AI, we deliver situational awareness in environments where traditional sensing solutions struggle.

We’re looking for a hands‑on Software Engineer, Embedded Systems to help deploy, optimize, and scale embedded software and AI/ML workloads on resource‑constrained edge platforms. You’ll develop embedded applications, port and optimize AI/ML algorithms, and work across Linux, networking, and deployment environments. You’ll collaborate with Software, Radar Firmware, DevOps, and Data Science teams to deliver reliable, production‑ready AI‑enabled products.

What You’ll Do
  • Port, optimize, and enhance platform software for embedded and resource‑constrained compute environments.
  • Deploy, validate, profile, and optimize AI/ML‑enabled applications on edge hardware.
  • Develop production‑quality software using C/C++, Python, Golang, and Linux‑based technologies.
  • Collaborate with Data Science teams to integrate AI/ML models into production software pipelines.
  • Work across the Linux kernel, device interfaces, networking, and system‑level software components.
  • Participate in architecture reviews, code reviews, testing, troubleshooting, and technical planning.
What We’re Looking For

This position requires working directly or indirectly with the US Government in restricted environments. Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the United States without employer sponsorship and may be required to obtain and maintain a U.S. government security clearance in the future.

Required
  • Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Robotics, or a related technical field, or equivalent practical experience.
  • Professional experience building, deploying, and maintaining production embedded software systems on edge devices with constrained CPU, GPU, memory, storage, and power resources.
  • Strong embedded software development experience using C/C++, with working knowledge of Golang and Python3.8+ preferred.
  • Strong experience with Yocto‑based embedded Linux distributions, including image customization, package management, board support packages, kernel configuration and tuning, and production deployment workflows.
  • Strong debugging, profiling, and performance optimization skills on constrained compute platforms.
  • Ability to collaborate effectively across software, firmware, DevOps, data science, and hardware teams.
Someone Who Will Thrive in This Role
  • Enjoys working close to hardware and solving complex systems‑level challenges.
  • Takes ownership of problems from development through deployment and support.
  • Continuously seeks opportunities to improve performance, reliability, and maintainability, while also taking time to learn the ins and outs of the existing products.
  • Collaborates effectively across multidisciplinary engineering teams.
  • Balances technical depth with practical product delivery.
  • Enjoys building, optimizing, or experimenting with embedded systems, robotics, AI, or edge computing technologies.
Bonus Points
  • Experience deploying AI/ML models using TensorRT, ONNX Runtime, PyTorch, TensorFlow Lite, or similar frameworks.
  • Experience with NVIDIA Jetson, CUDA, GPUs, NPUs, or other edge accelerators.
  • Background in radar, RF sensing, robotics, autonomy, perception systems, signal processing, or sensor fusion.
  • Experience with hardware‑in‑the‑loop testing, board bring‑up, and embedded platform validation.

At MatrixSpace, software engineering is where advanced sensing technology meets real‑world deployment. You’ll help bring AI‑powered capabilities to edge platforms so our customers can gain actionable insights from complex environments.

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