1

Freelance Embedded Systems Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Embedded Systems Engineer

Elmhurst, IL · On-site

$60K - $80K/yr

The Embedded Systems Engineer is responsible for the design and development of embedded applications on hardware platforms. The focus in this role includes creation of technical specifications ...

Embedded Systems Engineer II Division: Innovative Solutions Group Department: Embedded Systems & Human Factors Engineering Status: Full-time Overview: Nomad Global Communication Solutions (Nomad GCS ...

Embedded Systems Engineer II Division: Innovative Solutions Group Department: Embedded Systems & Human Factors Engineering Status: Full-time Overview: Nomad Global Communication Solutions (Nomad GCS ...

Embedded Systems Engineer

Goleta, CA · On-site

$100K - $200K/yr

Toyon is looking for a talented and passionate Embedded Systems Engineer to join our growing Aerospace Systems team. In this role, you will play a key part in the design, development, and testing of ...

Embedded Systems Engineer

Elmhurst, IL · On-site

$60K - $80K/yr

The Embedded Systems Engineer is responsible for the design and development of embedded applications on hardware platforms. The focus in this role includes creation of technical specifications ...

The ideal candidate will have deep expertise in embedded systems architecture, microcontroller programming, hands-on electronics troubleshooting, and hardware, firmware, and software interoperability.

Entry Level Software Engineer This Software/Embedded Systems Engineer role focuses on developing software for a broad range of devices used in surface heaters, temperature controllers, and insulators.

Embedded Systems Engineer

Bellmore, NY · On-site

$85K - $130K/yr

The ideal candidate will have deep expertise in embedded systems architecture, microcontroller programming, hands-on electronics troubleshooting, and hardware, firmware, and software interoperability.

Embedded Systems Engineer

Bellmore, NY · On-site

$85K - $130K/yr

The ideal candidate will have deep expertise in embedded systems architecture, microcontroller programming, hands-on electronics troubleshooting, and hardware, firmware, and software interoperability.

About the Job Umbra is seeking an Embedded Systems Engineer with a strong firmware background to support development of mission-critical satellite systems. This role focuses on bare-metal embedded ...

Entry Level Software Engineer This Software/Embedded Systems Engineer role focuses on developing software for a broad range of devices used in surface heaters, temperature controllers, and insulators.

About the Job Umbra is seeking an Embedded Systems Engineer with a strong firmware background to support development of mission-critical satellite systems. This role focuses on bare-metal embedded ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Freelance Embedded Systems Engineer information

See salary details

$62.5K

$137.3K

$192K

How much do freelance embedded systems engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for freelance embedded systems engineer 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.

What engineers make $500,000?

Senior embedded systems engineers with extensive experience, specialized skills in hardware and software development, and often working in high-demand industries such as aerospace or defense can reach salaries around $500,000. Achieving this level typically requires advanced certifications, leadership roles, and working in companies with high compensation standards.

What are freelance embedded systems engineers?

Freelance embedded systems engineers are independent professionals who design, develop, and maintain embedded systems for various clients on a project basis. These engineers specialize in integrating hardware and software to create systems that perform dedicated functions within larger devices, such as automotive electronics, medical devices, or consumer electronics. Working as freelancers, they may handle tasks such as firmware development, hardware design, debugging, and system integration, often collaborating remotely with clients from different industries. Their flexible work style allows them to take on diverse projects and stay updated with the latest embedded technologies.

Is Python or C++ better for embedded systems?

For a Freelance Embedded Systems Engineer, C++ is generally preferred for embedded systems due to its efficiency, low-level hardware access, and real-time performance. Python can be used for higher-level tasks or prototyping but is less suitable for resource-constrained environments. Knowledge of both languages can be advantageous depending on project requirements and hardware capabilities.

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

To thrive as a Freelance Embedded Systems Engineer, you need expertise in embedded C/C++ programming, microcontroller architecture, and electronics fundamentals, often supported by a degree in electrical engineering or computer science. Familiarity with tools such as oscilloscopes, logic analyzers, version control (e.g., Git), and platforms like ARM, Arduino, or RTOS, as well as certifications like Certified Embedded Systems Engineer (CESE), is highly valuable. Strong problem-solving abilities, effective communication, and the ability to manage projects independently are standout soft skills for this role. These skills are essential to deliver reliable, efficient solutions tailored to client needs while maintaining professionalism and adaptability in dynamic, project-based environments.

What are some common challenges faced by freelance embedded systems engineers, and how can they be addressed?

Freelance embedded systems engineers often encounter challenges such as managing multiple projects with varying requirements, keeping up with rapidly evolving hardware and software technologies, and ensuring effective communication with remote clients. To address these issues, it's important to maintain organized project management practices, invest time in continuous learning, and set clear expectations with clients regarding deliverables and timelines. Building a strong professional network and leveraging online collaboration tools can also enhance efficiency and client satisfaction.

Will AI replace embedded system engineers?

Embedded system engineers design and develop hardware and software for specialized devices, and AI is more likely to augment their work by automating routine tasks and improving system capabilities. While AI can handle certain aspects like data analysis and automation, the role requires expertise in hardware design, real-time systems, and troubleshooting that AI cannot fully replace. Therefore, AI is expected to complement rather than replace embedded system engineers in the foreseeable future.

Are embedded system engineers in demand?

Embedded system engineers are in high demand due to the growth of IoT, automation, and connected devices. They often require skills in programming languages like C and C++, and familiarity with hardware design and real-time operating systems, making their expertise valuable across various industries such as automotive, healthcare, and consumer electronics.
More about Freelance Embedded Systems Engineer jobs
What cities are hiring for Freelance Embedded Systems Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Freelance Embedded Systems Engineer job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Embedded Systems Engineer jobs? The most popular types of Embedded Systems Engineer jobs are:
What states have the most Freelance Embedded Systems Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Freelance Embedded Systems Engineer jobs include:
Infographic showing various Freelance Embedded Systems Engineer job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $137,274 per year, or $66 per hour.
Embedded Systems Engineer

Other

Posted 2 days ago

New


Prestolite Electric rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Prestolite Electric is seeking an experienced Embedded Systems Engineer to serve as the company's on-site technical representative at our customer's location in Indiana. This is a highly visible engineering role responsible for bridging communication and technical problem solving between Prestolite, its suppliers, and its customer's engineering teams.

This position is not a traditional software development, validation, or project coordination role. The successful candidate will act as a technical authority, leading root-cause investigations, supporting software and hardware integration efforts, and driving resolution of complex embedded systems issues. The engineer must be capable of independently identifying technical facts, analyzing evidence, and communicating objective conclusions to both engineering and executive audiences.

The ideal candidate combines strong embedded software expertise with hardware debugging capabilities and possesses a relentless commitment to evidence-based problem solving.

Required Education & Experience

  • Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Software Engineering, or a related technical discipline.
  • Minimum 5+ years of experience in embedded systems engineering, controls engineering, or a related field.
  • Experience performing hands-on debugging and root-cause analysis of embedded electronic systems.

Embedded Software

  • Embedded C/C++
  • Real-Time Operating Systems (RTOS)
  • Microcontroller architecture
  • Interrupt-driven systems
  • CAN and J1939 communications and diagnostics
  • Bootloader technologies
  • Embedded software debugging

Hardware & Electronics

  • Power supply design and troubleshooting
  • DC/DC converter fundamentals
  • Signal integrity analysis
  • Analog and digital interfaces
  • Electronic schematic interpretation
  • Hardware debugging and bench analysis

Preferred Qualifications

  • AUTOSAR experience
  • Vector toolchain experience
  • Trace32 debugging tools
  • Functional safety exposure
  • Power electronics experience
  • MOSFET gate drive circuits
  • Automotive ECU development
  • Electromagnetic compatibility (EMC)
  • Current sensing circuitry

What Prestolite Electric employees say

Pay

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom