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Freelance Embedded Systems Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Hovercraft

Creative Technologist (Freelance)

... embedded in the larger creative and problem-solving process. Core Technical Skills We're open to ... Experience with TouchDesigner for interactive systems, hardware integration, and high-performance ...

Toptal

Hardware Engineer

Rochester, NY · On-site

$121K - $160K/yr

We offer freelance opportunities strictly on an independent contractor basis.* For one of our ... Experience with battery systems, battery management systems (BMS), energy storage, or fuel cell ...

New

Crosscourt Careers

Club Content Director

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$28 - $35/hr

This is an embedded, in-club role. You're not managing socials from a desk somewhere; you're on ... Freelance Production Management • Brief, direct, and manage freelance photographers and ...

Inference

Filmmaker / Storyteller

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$100K - $140K/yr

... systems. We primarily work in-person from our office in downtown San Francisco. Our investors ... About the Role As our in-house filmmaker, you'll be embedded with our engineering team, capturing ...

Solomon Page

Contract Technical Recruiter

Rockville, MD · On-site

$60 - $70/hr

Target talent you'll recruit • Mechanical Engineers • Electrical Engineers • Systems ... Embedded Software Engineers • Test Engineers • Propulsion Engineers • Mission Operations ...

Novo Platform Inc

Product & Regulatory Counsel

New York, NY · On-site

$180K - $200K/yr

At Novo, we're here to help entrepreneurs, freelancers, startups and SMBs achieve their financial ... system that makes business banking as easy as iOS. We developed modern bank accounts and tools to ...

Absolute Software

Creative Director

... system across multiple touchpoints * Comfortable managing external agencies, freelancers, and ... Only Absolute is embedded in more than half a billion devices, offering a permanent digital ...

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Freelance Embedded Systems information

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$62.5K

$137.3K

$192K

How much do freelance embedded systems jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for freelance embedded systems in the United States is $137,274.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $111,500.00 and $163,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Can you make 10k a month freelancing?

Freelance embedded systems engineers can potentially earn $10,000 or more per month, especially with specialized skills, experience, and a strong client base. Achieving this income level often requires high-demand expertise, efficient project management, and the ability to secure multiple projects or retainers consistently.

What are some common challenges freelance embedded systems engineers face when working with clients remotely?

Freelance embedded systems engineers often encounter challenges such as managing communication across different time zones, clarifying technical requirements without in-person meetings, and ensuring hardware compatibility when clients provide limited access to equipment. Additionally, coordinating testing and debugging processes remotely can be complex, especially when physical prototypes are involved. Proactive communication, clear documentation, and utilizing remote collaboration tools can help address these challenges effectively.

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

A Freelance Embedded Systems Engineer needs expertise in microcontroller programming, hardware-software integration, and a solid understanding of electronics, typically backed by a degree in electrical engineering or a related field. Familiarity with development tools such as Keil, IAR, or Eclipse IDE, and experience with real-time operating systems (RTOS) and protocols like SPI, I2C, and UART are commonly required. Strong problem-solving, communication, and self-management abilities help freelancers deliver quality results and maintain client relationships. These skills and qualifications are critical for efficiently developing robust embedded solutions and succeeding in a competitive, project-driven freelance environment.

What is the hourly rate for embedded developer?

The hourly rate for freelance embedded systems developers typically ranges from $30 to $150, depending on experience, location, project complexity, and required skills such as proficiency with microcontrollers, RTOS, or hardware design. Highly experienced developers with specialized skills or certifications may charge higher rates, especially for complex or long-term projects.

What are the top 5 freelancing jobs?

For freelance embedded systems professionals, common top jobs include designing and developing firmware for IoT devices, creating custom hardware solutions, troubleshooting embedded systems, testing and validating embedded software, and providing consulting on system integration. These roles often require skills in C/C++, hardware prototyping, and knowledge of microcontrollers or FPGA development. Freelancers in this field typically work on project-based assignments for technology companies or startups.

What are freelance embedded systems engineers?

Freelance embedded systems engineers are professionals who work independently to design, develop, and maintain embedded systems for clients on a project basis. Embedded systems are specialized computing systems that are part of larger electronic devices, such as medical equipment, automotive controls, and consumer electronics. Freelancers in this field typically have expertise in hardware and software integration, real-time operating systems, and programming languages like C or C++. They offer flexibility to companies needing specific expertise without committing to full-time hires.

Will AI replace embedded programmers?

Embedded programmers develop software for hardware devices and often work with specialized tools and real-time constraints. While AI can assist with code generation and testing, it is unlikely to fully replace embedded programmers due to the need for domain expertise, system integration, and understanding of hardware-specific requirements.
More about Freelance Embedded Systems jobs
What cities are hiring for Freelance Embedded Systems jobs? Cities with the most Freelance Embedded Systems job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Embedded Systems jobs? The most popular types of Embedded Systems jobs are:
What states have the most Freelance Embedded Systems jobs? States with the most job openings for Freelance Embedded Systems jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Freelance Embedded Systems jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Freelance Embedded Systems jobs are:
Freelance Embedded Systems jobs near you
Infographic showing various Freelance Embedded Systems job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 92% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $137,274 per year, or $66 per hour.
Electronics Engineer / Freelance

Electronics Engineer / Freelance

RKS Design, Inc.

Westlake Village, CA • On-site

Contractor

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 7 days ago

Job description


About Us:
RKS has been at the forefront of Industrial Design in the United States for the last 40 years. We have built a reputation for delivering full-spectrum product design and development services-creating meaningful innovation across industries, from medical devices and consumer electronics to wearables and home goods. Our cross-functional approach integrates design, engineering, and human-centered thinking to produce award-winning products that drive emotional connection and market success.
Job Summary:
We are seeking a highly skilled and experienced Electronics Engineer to consult on a freelance basis with our interdisciplinary team. This role requires a hands-on, systems-level thinker who can architect and implement electronic subsystems within a variety of product categories. The ideal candidate will collaborate closely with mechanical, software, and industrial design teams to develop elegant, functional, and manufacturable products from concept through prototyping.
Key Responsibilities:
  • Design and develop electronic systems for consumer, medical, and industrial products.
  • Create schematics, select components, and develop PCB layouts using tools such as Altium or Eagle.
  • Develop, debug, and test analog and digital circuits including micro-controllers, power supplies, sensors, and wireless modules.
  • Build and program proof-of-concept electronics prototypes (e.g., Arduino, Raspberry Pi, custom boards).
  • Work with mechanical engineers to ensure seamless integration of electronics into the physical product design.
  • Collaborate with firmware and software developers to ensure hardware compatibility and performance.
  • Perform troubleshooting, testing, and debugging of hardware systems throughout the development lifecycle.
  • Contribute to documentation for design intent, testing procedures, compliance, and production hand-off.
  • Provide insight into design-for-manufacturing (DFM), regulatory compliance, and BOM cost optimization.
  • Participate in brainstorming sessions, technical reviews, and product refinement workshops.
  • Stay abreast of emerging technologies and component innovations relevant to product development.

Requirements
Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Electronics Engineering, or a related discipline; Master's degree is a plus.
  • 5+ years of hands-on experience designing electronics for commercial or industrial products.
  • Proficiency with electronic design tools (Altium Designer, Eagle, KiCad, or similar).
  • Strong understanding of micro-controller systems, low-power design, sensor integration, and communication protocols (I2C, SPI, UART, BLE).
  • Experience with embedded systems and basic firmware development is preferred.
  • Ability to rapidly prototype and iterate on electronic subsystems.
  • Excellent problem-solving, communication, and collaboration skills.
  • Knowledge of safety, EMI/EMC, and regulatory standards (FCC, CE, IEC, ISO 60601, etc.) is a strong advantage.

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Experience in client-facing or cross-disciplinary team environments.
  • Prior consulting or agency-based product development experience.
  • Familiarity with medical device development cycles and documentation practices is a plus.

Benefits
  • Medical Insurance
  • Dental Insurance
  • Paid Holidays
  • 401(k) as defined in the employee handbook
  • Sick Leave
  • Vacation

Let me know if you'd like this adapted for a full-time role, revised for a specific sector (e.g., wearables, medical), or turned into a formatted PDF or job board post.
You said:
10 years exp, no benefits
ChatGPT said:
Here is the revised Electronics Engineer job posting reflecting 5+ years of experience and no benefits, suitable for a freelance/contract role:
Job Description
About Us:
RKS has been a leader in Industrial Design for over 40 years, delivering innovation that transforms everyday life across industries-from medical devices and consumer electronics to mobility solutions and lifestyle products. Our multidisciplinary team combines creativity, engineering, and human-centered thinking to produce emotionally resonant, market-winning designs.
Job Summary:
We are looking for a highly experienced Freelance Electronics Engineer to consult with our product development team on a project-by-project basis. This role is ideal for a senior-level engineer with 10+ years of experience who can independently lead the design and integration of electronic systems across a range of complex product categories. You will collaborate with mechanical, firmware, and industrial designers to create fully integrated, production-ready solutions.
Key Responsibilities:
  • Lead the design, development, and testing of electronic hardware for consumer, medical, and industrial products.
  • Develop circuit schematics, select components, and design PCB layouts using tools like Altium, Eagle, or KiCad.
  • Build and program hardware prototypes using micro-controller platforms such as Arduino, STM32, or Raspberry Pi.
  • Collaborate with mechanical and firmware teams to ensure tight system integration and reliable operation.
  • Define electrical architecture, power budgets, and communication protocols (e.g., I2C, SPI, BLE, USB).
  • Troubleshoot and debug circuits across development stages-from bread-boarding to final PCBA.
  • Evaluate and specify off-the-shelf components, sensors, and modules to meet performance, cost, and compliance targets.
  • Prepare documentation including BOMs, test reports, and production handoff materials.
  • Advise on design for manufacturability (DFM), regulatory compliance, and lifecycle risk.
  • Contribute to design reviews and help drive technical decision-making across projects.

Requirements
Qualifications:
  • Bachelor'sdegree in Electromechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or arelated field; a Master's degree is a plus.
  • Provenexperience in designing and integrating electronics into mechanicalsystems.
  • Proficiencyin CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks, AutoCAD) and electronic designautomation (EDA) tools (e.g., Altium SW, Eagle).
  • Strongunderstanding of circuit design, micro-controllers, sensors, and actuators.
  • Experiencewith embedded systems and firmware development is a plus.
  • Excellentproblem-solving skills and attention to detail.
  • Strongcommunication and teamwork abilities.
  • Abilityto manage multiple projects and meet deadlines.
  • Familiaritywith regulatory standards and certification processes for consumer,medical, and industrial products.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
  • Client-facing,project management experience is highly preferred
  • Consulting/ Agency experience is highly preferred
  • Experiencewith medical product development a plus

Benefits
Benefits
  • MedicalInsurance
  • DentalInsurance
  • Paidholidays
  • 401 Kas defined in the employee handbook
  • Sickleave
  • Vacation

Apply