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Freelance Embedded Systems Engineer Jobs in California

Umbra

Embedded Systems Engineer

Santa Barbara, CA · On-site

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 ...

Umbra

Embedded Systems Engineer

Santa Barbara, CA · On-site

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 ...

Toyon

Senior Embedded Systems Engineer

Goleta, CA

$145K - $235K/yr

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

FieldAI

Embedded Systems Engineer-Federal

Irvine, CA

$70K - $300K/yr

As an Embedded Systems Engineer on the Federal Team at Field AI, you will contribute to the architecture, configuration, and validation of the compute systems that serve as the backbone for our ...

FieldAI

Embedded Systems Engineer-Federal

Irvine, CA · On-site

As an Embedded Systems Engineer on the Federal Team at Field AI, you will contribute to the architecture, configuration, and validation of the compute systems that serve as the backbone for our ...

SeeScan

Senior Embedded Systems Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$120K - $200K/yr

About this position We are looking for a hands-on Senior Embedded Systems Engineer to join our team. You will work in the domain where software meets hardware, from troubleshooting hardware during ...

Copper

Staff Embedded Systems Engineer

Berkeley, CA · Hybrid

$182K - $210K/yr

Overview As a Staff Embedded Systems Engineer at Copper, you'll help build the firmware that powers our energy-storage-enabled appliances. You'll work across device firmware, connectivity, and cloud ...

Copper

Staff Embedded Systems Engineer

Berkeley, CA · On-site

$182K - $210K/yr

Overview As a Staff Embedded Systems Engineer at Copper, you'll help build the firmware that powers our energy-storage-enabled appliances. You'll work across device firmware, connectivity, and cloud ...

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Freelance Embedded Systems Engineer information

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.
What are the most commonly searched types of Embedded Systems Engineer jobs in California? The most popular types of Embedded Systems Engineer jobs in California are:
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What cities in California are hiring for Freelance Embedded Systems Engineer jobs? Cities in California with the most Freelance Embedded Systems Engineer job openings:
Freelance Embedded Systems Engineer jobs near you
Embedded Systems Engineer

Embedded Systems Engineer

Umbra

Santa Barbara, CA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 20 days ago

Job description

Umbra is an American space technology company delivering advanced systems, from sensors to spacecraft, that empower customers worldwide with unmatched access to critical information from space. Our mission is simple and ambitious: redefine space-for people, systems, and missions in every domain. Umbra's ecosystem operates through three business units: Remote Sensing (the data), Space Systems (the components), and Mission Solutions (the platforms).Together, our teams develop capabilities that deliver persistent access, resilient performance, and mission-ready solutions, advancing U.S. space leadership while keeping the world safe and informed.
About the Team
Space Systems - The Components
Space Systems is where Umbra turns hardware and software designs into on-orbit realities; developing, implementing and iterating mission-ready core technology, while simultaneously advancing the next generation of our own satellite constellation. Space Systems is vertically integrated across the satellite architecture, thus the team designs, builds, and tests an array of critical components and subsystems, including power systems, communications, control systems, deployment hardware, avionics, and payloads, as well as the flight software, firmware and digital design solutions to support the entire hardware stack. Our focus is on first principles engineering, and our mandate is simple: it has to work when it counts. Every bolt, board, and binary is proven on our own SAR constellation, ensuring flight-proven reliability where failure is not an option.
If you want to work on cutting edge space technology while maintaining the highest standard for innovation and mission ready performance, you belong here at Umbra.
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 development, system integration, and hardware bring-up, with opportunities to contribute across the full lifecycle-from prototype to flight-ready systems.
You will work closely with electrical, software, and systems engineers to build and validate embedded solutions on real hardware. This role is ideal for someone who can take well-defined problems, execute quickly, and contribute to improving firmware infrastructure, tooling, and system reliability.
This position is based on-site in our Santa Barbara/Goleta, CA office.
Key Responsibilities
  • Design, implement, and debug low-level drivers (SPI, UART/RS-485, GPIO, timers, interrupts).
  • Participate in code reviews and MR support, ensuring code quality and maintainability.
  • Contribute to architecture/design documentation (e.g., RFCs, ADRs, timing diagrams, interface definitions).
  • Develop embedded firmware in C and Rust for bare-metal and RTOS-based microcontroller systems.
  • Bring up and debug hardware systems, including board-level validation and peripheral integration.
  • Support system integration and verification across avionics, radios, and other spacecraft subsystems.
  • Define and execute test plans for firmware and hardware validation.
  • Troubleshoot issues across firmware, hardware, and system interfaces.
  • Contribute to shared firmware infrastructure, including HALs, drivers, and reusable libraries.
  • Improve development workflows through contributions to repository structure, CI/CD, and test infrastructure.
  • Collaborate cross-functionally with electrical, systems, and flight software engineers.
  • Document designs, test procedures, and debugging processes to ensure repeatability and reliability.
  • Support test campaigns and mission-critical milestones as needed.

Requirements
Required Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or a related technical field.
  • 5+ years of professional experience in embedded systems or firmware development.
  • Experience developing and debugging embedded communication and control interfaces, including SPI, UART/SCI (e.g., RS-485), and GPIO/interrupts.
  • Strong proficiency in embedded C and/or Rust programming.
  • Experience working with bare-metal microcontrollers.
  • Hands-on experience with hardware bring-up and debugging on physical systems.
  • Ability to read and interpret electrical schematics and data sheets.
  • Experience with debugging tools such as oscilloscopes, logic analyzers, and debuggers (e.g., JTAG/SWD).
  • Experience with system integration and verification.
  • Experience with version control systems (e.g., Git) and collaborative development workflows.
  • Strong problem-solving skills and ability to execute independently.
  • Effective communication and ability to work in a cross-functional team environment.

Desired Qualifications
  • Experience with RTOS-based embedded systems.
  • Familiarity with hardware/software integration at the system level.
  • Experience contributing to CI/CD pipelines or automated test infrastructure for embedded systems.
  • Experience developing or maintaining HALs, drivers, or shared firmware libraries.
  • Background in aerospace, defense, or other high-reliability environments.
  • Comfort working in a fast-paced, hardware-centric development environment.
  • Demonstrated ownership of projects from concept through validation.
  • Experience working in Agile/PI planning environments.
  • Experience supporting system-level testing or qualification efforts.

Benefits
  • Flexible Time Off, Sick, Family & Medical Leave
  • Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, LTD, STD (employer funded)
  • Vol Life, Critical Illness, Accidental, Hospital Indemnity, Pet Insurance (employee funded)
  • 401k with 3% non-elective company contribution
  • Stock Options
  • Free Parking
  • Free lunch in office daily

Umbra is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We do not discriminate in hiring on the basis of sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religious creed, national origin, physical or mental disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law.
Employment Eligibility Verification
In compliance with federal laws, all hired persons will be required to verify their identity and eligibility to work in the United States by completing the required Employment Eligibility Verification Form (I-9 Form) upon hire.
ITAR/EAR Requirements
This position may include access to technology and/or data that is subject to U.S. export controls pursuant to ITAR and EAR. To comply with federal export controls, all persons hired must be a U.S. citizen, U.S. national, U.S. lawful permanent resident, refugee or asylee as defined by 8 U.S.C. § 1324b(a)(3), or must otherwise be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State and/or U.S. Department of Commerce as applicable.
Pay Transparency
This job posting may cover multiple career levels. To ensure greater transparency, we provide base salary ranges for all roles, regardless of location. Our standard pay ranges are based on the role's function and level, benchmarked against similar growth-stage companies. Compensation may vary based on geographical location, as certain regions may have different cost-of-living factors. The final offer will also be influenced by the candidate's skills, responsibilities, and relevant experience.
Compensation Range
The Compensation Range for this role is $150,000 - $180,000 DOE.

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