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Junior Embedded Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Dexian DISYS

Embedded Engineer

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

$40 - $42/hr

Bachelor's degree Industry experience (Junior-mid). Embedded Linux & hardware troubleshooting. Handles engineering + lab shipping/inventory. Pluses: Python, C/C++, FPGA, ARM. Dexian stands at the ...

GRVTY

Jr Embedded Software Developer

Ventura, CA · On-site

What Impact You'll Have GRVTY is seeking a passionate Junior Embedded Software Engineer to join our growing software team in Ventura, CA. This is an opportunity to develop and test autonomy software ...

GRVTY

Jr Embedded Software Developer

Ventura, CA

$90K - $100K/yr

What Impact You'll Have GRVTY is seeking a passionate Junior Embedded Software Engineer to join our growing software team in Ventura, CA. This is an opportunity to develop and test autonomy software ...

GRVTY

Jr Embedded Software Developer

Ventura, CA · On-site

$90K - $100K/yr

What Impact You'll Have GRVTY is seeking a passionate Junior Embedded Software Engineer to join our growing software team in Ventura, CA. This is an opportunity to develop and test autonomy software ...

Align Technology

Embedded Software Engineer

San Jose, CA · On-site

$154K - $203K/yr

... junior engineers through code reviews, design reviews, debugging, and technical guidance. • ... embedded software development experience with consumer electronics, wearable devices, medical ...

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Junior Embedded Engineer information

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$33.1K

$70.9K

$108.1K

How much do junior embedded engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for junior embedded engineer in California is $70,859.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $47,900.00 and $79,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a Junior Embedded Engineer do?

A Junior Embedded Engineer assists in designing, developing, and testing embedded systems, which are specialized computing systems that perform dedicated functions within larger devices. They typically work with microcontrollers, firmware, and hardware interfaces, often writing code in languages like C or C++. Junior engineers collaborate with senior engineers and cross-functional teams to troubleshoot issues, support product development, and improve system performance. Their role is crucial in industries like automotive, consumer electronics, and IoT, where embedded systems are widely used.

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

To thrive as a Junior Embedded Engineer, you need a solid understanding of C/C++ programming, basic electronics, and embedded systems concepts, usually backed by a degree in electrical engineering, computer engineering, or a related field. Familiarity with microcontrollers, hardware debugging tools (like oscilloscopes and logic analyzers), and version control systems such as Git is typically required. Strong problem-solving abilities, teamwork, and effective communication help you adapt to project requirements and collaborate with cross-functional teams. These skills ensure you can develop reliable embedded solutions, troubleshoot issues efficiently, and contribute effectively to engineering projects.

What are common challenges a Junior Embedded Engineer faces when transitioning from academic projects to real-world embedded systems development?

Junior Embedded Engineers often find that real-world projects involve working with complex hardware constraints, strict deadlines, and cross-functional teams. Unlike academic projects, embedded systems in industry must meet rigorous reliability, safety, and performance standards, often with limited documentation. Adapting to debugging hardware issues, integrating with legacy code, and collaborating closely with hardware engineers and senior developers can be challenging but also provides valuable learning opportunities. Embracing a proactive approach to problem-solving and seeking mentorship within the team can greatly ease this transition.
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Junior Embedded Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Junior Embedded Engineer job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, and 13% Contract. Highlights an 89% In-person, and 11% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $70,859 per year, or $34.1 per hour.

Junior Embedded Software Engineer

Observable Space

Los Angeles, CA • On-site

$141K - $186K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, PTO

Posted yesterday

Job description

About Observable Space
At Observable Space, we're redefining how humanity observes and connects with the universe. We're a vertically integrated, high-growth, space technology company building industry-leading precision optics platforms for Earth and in space. Our systems are trusted by NASA, JPL, SpaceX, Boeing, Raytheon, and the US DoD, among others, and power the work of leading research institutions.
We combine precision opto-mechanical hardware, embedded computing, cloud orchestration, and developer-friendly APIs into world class products. From advanced ground stations, on orbit sensor suites, free space optical lasercom, to distributed compute platforms, we deliver the foundational systems enabling continuous, real-time navigation, observation, and communication in space.
Observable Space is backed by top-tier institutional investors including Lux, Upfront Ventures, RTX Ventures, Detroit Venture Partners and Embedded Ventures.
The Role
As a Junior Embedded Software Engineer, you'll work alongside our embedded team across our full product line, from robotic ground telescopes to on-orbit compute platforms. You'll help build and maintain embedded Linux systems and low-level firmware, bring up hardware peripherals, write and debug drivers, and pitch in on the bench work- soldering, test rigs, and prototype assembly- that keeps hardware programs moving.
This role is hands-on from day one: you'll read schematics alongside senior engineers, get exposure to electrical and mechanical teams, dig into real hardware debugging, and grow your understanding of edge compute at the cutting edge. You will report to the Embedded Engineering Lead, with close mentorship from senior and staff engineers on the team.
Key Responsibilities
  • Support the development, testing, and debugging of embedded Linux systems and low-level firmware- from daemons and drivers to bootloaders and control loops under the guidance of senior engineers.
  • Assist in developing and maintaining drivers across interfaces such as PCIe, SPI, I2C, UART, MIPI CSI-2, and GPIO, under the guidance of senior engineers.
  • Help bring up peripherals (cameras, sensors, communication links) at both the software and hardware level - from firmware and embedded Linux integration to assembling first article prototypes, soldering, wiring, and initial power-on checks alongside the EE team.
  • Help own component test characterization campaigns, from setting up test rigs to running the tests and pulling results together.
  • Participate in longevity testing campaigns and analyze the resulting test data to catch issues before they matter.
  • Participate in design reviews, code reviews, and team discussions to build your product and reliability instincts.

Basic Qualifications
  • 0-2 years of experience in embedded software engineering, systems-level development, or a related internship/academic background.
  • Experience in C and working knowledge of C++.
  • Foundational understanding of common hardware interfaces (I2C, SPI, UART, CAN, Ethernet) from coursework, personal projects, or internships.
  • Comfort reading basic schematics or a strong willingness to learn.
  • Familiarity with basic lab tools (multimeter, oscilloscope) or eagerness to build that skill on the job.
  • Strong debugging curiosity and persistence- you enjoy digging into why something isn't working.
  • Good communication skills and comfort asking questions and collaborating closely with senior engineers.
  • A bias toward hands-on learning and fast iteration.

Bonus Qualifications
  • Ability to solder and build a wire harness.
  • Ability to use a multimeter and oscilloscope.
  • Exposure to firmware development on microcontrollers (e.g., bare-metal, RTOS, or Arduino/STM32/ESP32-style projects) from coursework, personal projects, or internships.
  • Exposure to Linux kernel development, device drivers, or embedded Linux (Yocto, Buildroot).
  • Personal, academic, or internship projects involving PCIe, MIPI CSI-2, or other high-speed interfaces.
  • Familiarity with Zephyr RTOS or other embedded operating systems.

What We Offer
  • Competitive Compensation - A salary package aligned with industry standards and your experience.
  • Equity Opportunities - Take part in our success with stock options.
  • Flexible Work Environment - Enjoy working from our office or in a hybrid work setup with the flexibility to work remotely part of the week. We require a minimum of 3 days per week in our office to support collaboration and team culture. (LA Office only)
  • Unlimited PTO - Take the time you need with our flexible, trust-based vacation policy, including paid holidays. We encourage everyone to rest, recharge, and take care of themselves.
  • Health & Wellness - Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage with 100% of the premium paid by the employer for employees.
  • Cutting-Edge Tools - Get access to the latest hardware and software you need to do your best work.
  • Mission-Driven Culture - Be part of a team working on meaningful challenges with real-world impact.
  • Inclusive Team - We foster a supportive and diverse workplace where all voices are valued.

Observable Space is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and inclusion in the workplace. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, genetics, or any other basis protected by federal, state, or local law.
Compensation: $100K- $160K salary + competitive equity

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