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Freelance Embedded Systems Engineer Jobs in Raleigh, NC

Electronic Warfare Systems Architect

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$217K/yr

... CPU, embedded systems). - Define digital signal processing requirements and data flows across ... Bachelor's degree or higher in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Physics, Applied ...

Software Engineer

Cary, NC · On-site

$47 - $52/hr

Understanding of embedded operating systems, device drivers, and hardware/software integration ... Electrical Engineering * Computer Engineering * Mechanical Engineering By providing your phone ...

Embedded Software Engineer

Cary, NC · On-site

$123K - $161K/yr

... systems. · Collaborate with cross-functional teams to deliver software solutions and provide ... embedded software development tools. · Support project planning, risk management, and engineering ...

Embedded Software Engineer

Cary, NC · On-site

$123K - $161K/yr

... systems. · Collaborate with cross-functional teams to deliver software solutions and provide ... embedded software development tools. · Support project planning, risk management, and engineering ...

Product Engineer

Cary, NC · On-site

$60 - $62/hr

Responsible for designing, developing, and testing embedded software for vehicle controller systems. * Works on moderate to complex engineering projects, contributing to system architecture and ...

As a Principal Engineer at Baxter, your contributions directly impact making a significant ... Experience working on complex hardware and software projects involving embedded systems, network ...

Senior Electrical Engineer

Morrisville, NC · On-site

$100K - $131K/yr

Contract Travel: 0-5% Minimum Qualifications: * 5+ years of hands-on electrical engineering experience, with significant focus on battery-powered embedded or wearable systems. * Demonstrated ...

Senior Electrical Engineer

Morrisville, NC · On-site

$100K - $131K/yr

Contract Travel: 0-5% Minimum Qualifications: * 5+ years of hands-on electrical engineering experience, with significant focus on battery-powered embedded or wearable systems. * Demonstrated ...

Senior Electrical Engineer

Morrisville, NC · On-site

$100K - $131K/yr

Contract Travel: 0-5% Minimum Qualifications: * 5+ years of hands-on electrical engineering experience, with significant focus on battery-powered embedded or wearable systems. * Demonstrated ...

Senior Electrical Engineer

Morrisville, NC · On-site

$100K - $131K/yr

Contract Travel: 0-5% Minimum Qualifications: * 5+ years of hands-on electrical engineering experience, with significant focus on battery-powered embedded or wearable systems. * Demonstrated ...

Sr. Firmware Engineer

Morrisville, NC · On-site

$111K - $147K/yr

The Role As Senior Firmware Engineer with Xylem you will design, develop, and support embedded firmware for Sensus gas AMI and metering products. You will work on complex, low-level systems while ...

Sr. Firmware Engineer

Morrisville, NC · On-site

$111K - $147K/yr

The Role As Senior Firmware Engineer with Xylem you will design, develop, and support embedded firmware for Sensus gas AMI and metering products. You will work on complex, low-level systems while ...

Showing results 41-60

Freelance Embedded Systems Engineer information

See Raleigh, NC salary details

$60.8K

$133.4K

$186.6K

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

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for freelance embedded systems engineer in Raleigh, NC is $133,441.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $108,400.00 and $158,900.00 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.
What are the most commonly searched types of Embedded Systems Engineer jobs in Raleigh, NC? The most popular types of Embedded Systems Engineer jobs in Raleigh, NC are:
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What job categories do people searching Freelance Embedded Systems Engineer jobs in Raleigh, NC look for? The top searched job categories for Freelance Embedded Systems Engineer jobs in Raleigh, NC are:
What cities near Raleigh, NC are hiring for Freelance Embedded Systems Engineer jobs? Cities near Raleigh, NC with the most Freelance Embedded Systems Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Freelance Embedded Systems Engineer job openings in Raleigh, NC as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $133,441 per year, or $64.2 per hour.
Embedded Software Engineer II (Onsite)

Embedded Software Engineer II (Onsite)

Collins Aerospace

Morrisville, NC

$123K - $161K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 2 days ago


Collins Aerospace rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 249 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

28th of 71 rated aerospace companies


Job description

Date Posted:

2026-07-08

Country:

United States of America

Location:

US-NC-MORRISVILLE-907 ~ 951 Aviation Pkwy ~ 907 BLDG

Position Role Type:

Onsite

U.S. Citizen, U.S. Person, or Immigration Status Requirements:

The ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. government issued security clearance is required.​ U.S. citizenship is required, as only U.S. citizens are eligible for a security clearance

Security Clearance Type:

Secret - Current

Security Clearance Status:

Active and existing security clearance required after day 1

At RTX, the world's largest aerospace and defense company, 185,000 great minds are united by purpose and inspired to make a difference solving the world’s most complex problems. With our three market leading businesses, world-class operations and investments in research and development, we offer capabilities and opportunity no one else can. Together, we push the boundaries of known science and find new ways to connect and protect our world. 

Collins Aerospace is a leader in technologically advanced, intelligent solutions that help redefine the aerospace and defense industry. With a comprehensive portfolio and deep technical expertise, we help customers meet the demands of the global market. Join us and help shape the future of aerospace and defense. 

Raytheon Company, Managed by Collins Aerospace 

Collins Aerospace, an RTX company, is a leader in technologically advanced and intelligent solutions for the global aerospace and defense industry. Collins Aerospace has the capabilities, comprehensive portfolio, and expertise to solve customers’ toughest challenges and to meet the demands of a rapidly evolving global market. 

Are you a dynamic and experienced RUST Embedded Software Engineer interested in contributing to programs that save lives and enable the freedoms we enjoy.  Our dynamic engineers develop demanding, trusted, and superior solutions to make the world a safer place.   

We are looking for a proven and progressive leader to join our Software Engineering team to work onsite in Morrisville, NC. 

What You Will Do: 

  • You will work with Collins professionals around the country who thrive in a culture that celebrates the contributions of its employees.  

  • You will continue your career in a challenging and collaborative workplace, joining a team with a tradition of achievement through thought and teamwork. 

  • Architecture, design, development, integration, and testing of embedded software for a network security appliances, including device management software, communication protocols, device drivers, and control plane security features.  

  • Work closely with a team software engineers to ensure implementation meets the product requirements.   

  • Socialize designs with team and integrates suggestions and changes as appropriate. Unit test software components to ensure module-level functionality and data structure consistency. 

  • Participate in design and implementation/code reviews of other team members.  

  • Work with implementation teams to derive and document appropriate designs for the problem space.  

  • Create required project documentation in support of contract deliverables. Including development plans, requirement and design specifications, and test documents.  

  • Independently manage time and prioritizes tasks to achieve results within cost and schedule constraints.  

Qualifications You Must Have: 

  • Proven experience in large complex software/hardware developments. 

  • Previous experience using C/C++ and/or RUST. 

  • Typically requires a degree in Science, Technology, Engineering or Mathematics (STEM) and minimum 2 years of prior relevant experience or an Advanced Degree in a related field 

Qualifications We Prefer:  

  • Ideal candidates will have experience with software development using a high-level programming language (Rust, C++, C#, Java, Perl, Ada, VHDL) as well as hardware-software integration in real-time embedded systems. 

  • Docker container development 

  • Crypto Algorithm experience. 

  • Experience with SysML and UML modeling tools. 

  • Understanding of network security protocols and algorithms (e.g. TLS, SSL, encryption, OpenSSL, X.509 Certificates, etc.) 

  • Experience with Key Management Infrastructure (KMI-3300) and Over-The-Network-Keying (OTNK). 

  • Control plane implementation for Ethernet based Network Appliances. 

What We Offer: 

Some of our competitive benefits package includes:  

  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance 

  • Three weeks of vacation for newly hired employees 

  • Generous 401(k) plan that includes employer matching funds and separate employer retirement contribution, including a Lifetime Income Strategy option 

  • Tuition reimbursement program 

  • Student Loan Repayment Program 

  • Life insurance and disability coverage 

  • Optional coverages you can buy pet insurance, home and auto insurance, additional life and accident insurance, critical illness insurance, group legal, ID theft protection 

  • Birth, adoption, parental leave benefits 

  • Ovia Health, fertility, and family planning 

  • Adoption Assistance          

  • Autism Benefit 

  • Employee Assistance Plan, including up to 10 free counseling sessions 

  • Healthy You Incentives, wellness rewards program 

  • Doctor on Demand, virtual doctor visits 

  • Bright Horizons, child and elder care services 

  • Teladoc Medical Experts, second opinion program 

  • Eligible for relocation 

  • And more!  

Do you want to be a part of something bigger? A team whose impact stretches across the world, and even beyond?  

At Collins Aerospace, our Mission Systems team helps civilian, military and government customers complete their most complex missions — whatever and wherever they may be. Our customers depend on us for intelligent and secure communications, missionized systems for specialized aircraft and spacecraft and collaborative space solutions. By joining our team, you’ll have your own critical part to play in ensuring our customer succeeds today while anticipating their needs for tomorrow. Are you up for the challenge? Join our mission today.  

*Please ensure the role type (defined below) is appropriate for your needs before applying to this role. 

Onsite: Employees who are working in Onsite roles will work primarily onsite. This includes all production and maintenance employees, as they are essential to the development of our products.  

At Collins, the paths we pave together lead to limitless possibility. And the bonds we form – with our customers and with each other -- propel us all higher, again and again.   

Apply now and be part of the team that’s redefining aerospace, every day. 

As part of our commitment to maintaining a secure hiring process, candidates may be asked to attend select steps of the interview process in-person at one of our office locations, regardless of whether the role is designated as on-site, hybrid or remote.

The salary range for this role is 68,900 USD - 131,100 USD. The salary range provided is a good faith estimate representative of all experience levels. RTX considers several factors when extending an offer, including but not limited to, the role, function and associated responsibilities, a candidate’s work experience, location, education/training, and key skills. Hired applicants may be eligible for benefits, including but not limited to, medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short-term disability, long-term disability, 401(k) match, flexible spending accounts, flexible work schedules, employee assistance program, Employee Scholar Program, parental leave, paid time off, and holidays. Specific benefits are dependent upon the specific business unit as well as whether or not the position is covered by a collective-bargaining agreement. Hired applicants may be eligible for annual short-term and/or long-term incentive compensation programs depending on the level of the position and whether or not it is covered by a collective-bargaining agreement. Payments under these annual programs are not guaranteed and are dependent upon a variety of factors including, but not limited to, individual performance, business unit performance, and/or the company’s performance. This role is a U.S.-based role. If the successful candidate resides in a U.S. territory, the appropriate pay structure and benefits will apply. RTX anticipates the application window closing approximately 40 days from the date the notice was posted. However, factors such as candidate flow and business necessity may require RTX to shorten or extend the application window.

RTX is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability or veteran status, or any other applicable state or federal protected class. RTX provides affirmative action in employment for qualified Individuals with a Disability and Protected Veterans in compliance with Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act and the Vietnam Era Veterans’ Readjustment Assistance Act.

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About Collins Aerospace

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Collins Aerospace, a Raytheon Technologies company, is a leader in technologically advanced and intelligent solutions for the global aerospace and defense industry. Collins Aerospace has the capabilities, comprehensive portfolio and expertise to solve customers' toughest challenges and to meet the demands of a rapidly evolving global market.

Industry

Aviation

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Charlotte, NC, US

Year founded

2018