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Freelance Embedded System Software Engineer Jobs in Waltham, MA

KPM Analytics

Embedded Software Engineer

Westborough, MA · On-site

$83 - $165/hr

About the Role We're looking for an Embedded Software Engineer to join us on a 6-12-month contract ... Debug and improve software running in a real-time operating system (RTOS) environment * Support ...

KPM Analytics

Embedded Software Engineer

Westborough, MA

$135K - $178K/yr

About the Role We're looking for an Embedded Software Engineer to join us on a 6-12-month contract ... Debug and improve software running in a real-time operating system (RTOS) environment * Support ...

KPM Analytics

Embedded Software Engineer

Westborough, MA · On-site

$15/hr

About the Role We're looking for an Embedded Software Engineer to join us on a 6-12-month contract ... Debug and improve software running in a real-time operating system (RTOS) environment * Support ...

Integrated Resources INC

Embedded Software Engineer

Woburn, MA · On-site

$143K - $189K/yr

Design and development of system and device driver software for many standard operating systems ... Working with hardware engineers during the definition, design and verification phases. Working on ...

Mantu

Embedded Linux Software Engineer - C/C++

Westford, MA · On-site

$136K - $179K/yr

Senior Embedded Linux Software Engineer - C/C++ Location: Westford, MA -- Hybrid, 3 days/week ... Fire Detection & Safety Systems Experience: 7+ years About the Role Our client is a leading ...

Specter Aerospace

Embedded Software Engineer III

Boston, MA · 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.

MORSE Corp

Embedded Software Engineer

Cambridge, MA · 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 ...

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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

Embedded Software Engineer- Technical Lead

Boston Engineering Corporation

Waltham, MA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 28 days ago

Job description

Company Description
Boston Engineering is where innovative ideas become real-world technologies. Headquartered in Waltham, Massachusetts, we've spent more than 30 years partnering with commercial and government clients to solve complex engineering challenges and bring breakthrough products to market. From advanced robotics and autonomous systems to medical devices, digital solutions, defense technologies, and industrial automation, our teams work on meaningful projects that push the boundaries of what's possible.
The company integrates advanced technologies with practical engineering execution, delivering end-to-end services from concept through commercialization. Boston Engineering combines technical rigor, cross-disciplinary teams, and proven processes to accelerate product development and to solve complex challenges. The company is ISO-certified and CMMC-certified, with a commitment to operational excellence, innovation, and measurable client outcomes. Its mission is to improve the way people work and live through innovative product development and novel engineering.
Job Description
This is a hands-on technical leadership role. While the title includes "software," the work is primarily embedded and firmware-focused: RTOS-based systems, hardware bring-up, driver development, board-level debugging, and close collaboration with electrical and mechanical teams. Some upper-stack or tooling work exists, but the core responsibility is commanding and controlling hardware.
The Technical Lead owns embedded software at both the tactical and strategic levels, ensuring that systems are architected correctly, risks are identified early, and the broader team is unblocked when challenges arise. This role sets technical direction, streamlines and documents software processes, establishes best practices, and raises the embedded engineering bar across projects.
Requirements and Preferences
  • Proven ability in:
    • Leading the design, development, and optimization of embedded and firmware systems for robotics, autonomous, or maritime platforms
    • Streamlining and documenting software processes to accelerate projects and ensure repeatability, while maintaining high-quality standards
    • Architecting and implementing firmware tightly integrated with custom hardware, sensors, and control systems
    • Writing and reviewing RTOS-based firmware (FreeRTOS, ROS2, Zephyr), including task design, synchronization, memory management, and timing analysis
    • Reviewing schematics and PCB layouts to identify firmware impacts, integration risks, and potential design issues early in the development cycle
    • Debugging complex system issues using oscilloscopes, logic analyzers, protocol analyzers, and other bench tools, and determining root cause across software, firmware, and hardware
    • Building and maintaining benchtop development setups ("roadkills") to enable early firmware development prior to final hardware availability
    • Ensuring firmware meets real-time performance, reliability, and mission-critical requirements
    • Leading technical design reviews, architecture discussions, and roadmap planning with a focus on system-level risk and feasibility
    • Clearly communicating technical concepts, tradeoffs, risks, and status to both engineering and non-engineering stakeholders
    • Anticipating and addressing technical bottlenecks that span firmware, hardware, and system integration

Experience with working in challenging, hands-on, and customer-driven engineering environments
  • Closely collaborating with electrical, mechanical, systems, and product teams
  • Demonstrating proficiency in standard embedded development tools, git version control, build systems, and debugging environments
  • Strong organizational skills and clear written and verbal communications
  • Ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance

Successful candidates must have demonstrated success and capability in the following:
  • Acting as the technical escalation point when embedded or system-level issues block progress
  • Mentoring and coaching engineers on embedded firmware architecture, debugging techniques, and best practices
  • Writing high-quality, maintainable, and well-documented firmware and low-level software
  • Developing and maintaining embedded system software, including firmware, device drivers, and communication stacks
  • Performing thorough testing and debugging to ensure system functionality, reliability, and safety
  • Proposing and implementing technical solutions that improve system robustness, debuggability, and performance
  • Breaking down ambiguous or novel problems into executable engineering plans, including scope, risk, and estimates
  • Supporting software configuration management and repeatable development workflows
  • Working across R&D and product environments with an understanding of long-term maintainability and transition to production

Qualifications
  • BS (acceptable) or MS (preferred) in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or related field
  • 7+ years of experience in embedded/firmware development, including 3+ years in a senior or technical lead role
  • Fluency in C and C++ for embedded systems, as well as Python for tooling and testing
  • Hands-on experience with RTOS environments (FreeRTOS, ROS2, Zephyr, or similar)
  • Experience developing software on embedded targets such as STM32, ARM-based MCUs/SoCs, x86, PIC32, or similar
  • Experience with I2C, SPI, UART, Ethernet, GPIO, and low-level hardware interfaces
  • Familiarity with cloud and/or other networks/servers for data offload, analysis, and management
  • Experience debugging networking stacks and board-level communication issues is a strong plus
  • Experience authoring and reviewing software requirements, specifications, and design documentation, and leading effective design reviews
  • Familiarity with CI/CD pipelines for embedded systems
  • Familiarity with ISO 9001 and CMMI quality frameworks is desirable
  • Experience with maritime systems, robotics, uncrewed systems, or military platforms is highly desirable
  • Exposure to navigation, localization, sensor fusion, or autonomy systems is a plus

Bonus Attributes:
  • Experience contributing to proposal development, feasibility studies, or early technical concepts
  • Background or interest in machine learning, computer vision, or AI as applied to embedded or robotic systems
  • Familiarity with safety-critical or mission-critical software development practices
  • Understanding of Agile methodologies and practical DevOps workflows in embedded environments
  • Experience working on government or defense-related programs, including technical documentation and customer interaction
  • Experience working within or supporting quality management systems (QMS)

Additional Information
Employment Type: Full-Time Role
Reports to: Director, Software Engineering
Location: Office-based role in Waltham, Massachusetts
Relocation: Not available at this time.
Travel: Minimal
Salary Range: The base salary range for this position is $150,000 to $175,000 annually, commensurate with experience and qualifications. The final offer amount will be determined by factors such as the candidate's education, knowledge, experience, and skills. A comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance, 401(k) match, and paid time off, is also provided.
This role is restricted to US persons (i.e., US citizens, permanent residents, and other protected individuals under the Immigration and Naturalization Act, 8 USC 1324b(a)(3)) due to access to export-controlled technology. Boston Engineering will require proof of status prior to employment.
**Your application will not be considered complete without a submitted writing sample.**
All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.
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