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Junior Embedded Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Ayar Labs

Sr. Engineer, Embedded Firmware

San Jose, CA

$160K - $192K/hr

Sr. Engineer, Embedded Firmware Location: San Jose, CA (on-site 3-4 days per week) Ayar Labs is ... Mentor and guide junior engineers, contributing to their professional growth and development.

Ayar Labs

Sr. Engineer, Embedded Firmware

San Jose, CA · On-site

$160K - $192K/yr

Sr. Engineer, Embedded Firmware Location: San Jose, CA (on-site 3-4 days per week) Ayar Labs is ... Mentor and guide junior engineers, contributing to their professional growth and development.

Abbott

Embedded Software Engineer

Alameda, CA

$90K - $180K/yr

The Embedded Software Engineer oversees the design, development, and validation of software for ... and mentoring junior engineers. Adherence to FDA-compliant Design Control procedures and ...

Abbott

Embedded Software Engineer

Alameda, CA

$90K - $180K/yr

The Embedded Software Engineer oversees the design, development, and validation of software for ... and mentoring junior engineers. Adherence to FDA-compliant Design Control procedures and ...

Abbott

Embedded Software Engineer

Alameda, CA · On-site

$90K - $180K/yr

The Embedded Software Engineer oversees the design, development, and validation of software for ... and mentoring junior engineers. Adherence to FDA-compliant Design Control procedures and ...

Intuitive

Senior Embedded Software Engineer

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

$145K - $190K/yr

Mentor junior engineers and lead by example in code quality, debugging discipline, and design ... Experience integrating embedded Linux systems with FPGA, PCIe, DMA, custom ASICs, or other high ...

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All JobsEmbedded Engineer JobsJunior Embedded Engineer JobsJunior Embedded Engineer Jobs in California

Junior Embedded Engineer information

See California salary details

$33.1K

$70.9K

$108.1K

How much do junior embedded engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 20, 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.
What are the most commonly searched types of Embedded Engineer jobs in California? The most popular types of Embedded Engineer jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Junior Embedded Engineer jobs in California? For Junior Embedded Engineer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Junior Embedded Engineer jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Junior Embedded Engineer jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Junior Embedded Engineer jobs? Cities in California with the most Junior Embedded Engineer job openings:
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 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $70,859 per year, or $34.1 per hour.
Senior Embedded Software Engineer - Cyber

Senior Embedded Software Engineer - Cyber

Innoflight

San Diego, CA • On-site

$170K - $215K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 29 days ago

Job description

GROW WITH US AND STAY EXTRAORDINARY:
Launch your career to new heights with Innoflight-one of San Diego's fastest-growing Aerospace and Defense innovators. Here, visionary minds engineer the future of space technology through pioneering, compact, and cyber-secure solutions. From software-defined radios to cutting-edge cryptographic systems and avionics, everything we build powers the next era of New Space. Join our small, agile, and mission-driven team where your work has real impact and your growth has no limits. We're not just reaching for the stars-we're engineering them. Let's innovate the infinite, together.
A DAY IN THE LIFE:
As a Senior Embedded Software Engineer - Cyber, you will design, develop, and integrate advanced cyber secure embedded software solutions for satellite avionics and payload data processing systems. You will collaborate closely with Systems, Hardware, and FPGA engineers to deliver highly secure, rugged, reliable, and Low-Size, Weight, and Power (Low-SWaP) aerospace products. You will also provide technical mentorship and Subject Matter Expert (SME) level guidance to development and test teams.
WHAT YOU'LL DO:
  • Design and Develop Embedded Software: Design and implement embedded software for multi-core processors integrated with FPGAs (e.g., Xilinx, Microsemi, Microchip, Vorago).
  • Develop for Processor Architectures: Create software for ARM Cortex and RISC-V processor architectures using C/C++.
  • Configure Linux and RTOS Systems: Customize Linux kernel, system settings, bootloaders (U-Boot, GRUB), and implement real-time operating systems (RTOS).
  • Implement Secure Networking Protocols: Develop RFC-compliant networking and security protocols such as IP, TLS, and IPsec.
  • Integrate Hardware Interfaces: Work with interconnect standards including SPI, I2C, UART, GPIO, PCI, PCIe, Ethernet, and SpaceWire.
  • Apply Cryptographic Systems: Utilize AES, RSA, ECDSA, and ECDH to develop secure software solutions.
  • Lead Software Development and Testing: Oversee the development and testing of reusable, high-quality embedded software modules.
  • Ensure Secure System Best Practices: Establish best practices in Architecture, Design, and Code to maintain system security.
  • Translate Complex Requirements: Convert system and customer requirements into robust software designs.
  • Interpret Government Security Standards: Apply government security standards relevant to Innoflight product design and development.
  • Support Software-Hardware Integration: Assist with integration and debugging on hardware platforms.
  • Manage Software Configuration: Track features, defects, and releases via formal configuration and release processes.
  • Drive Continuous Improvement: Contribute to the enhancement of development practices and team workflows.
  • Mentor Junior Engineers: Provide mentorship through design reviews, code walkthroughs, and technical guidance.

YOU'RE AWESOME AT:
  • Embedded Software Development: Expert in C/C++ for embedded systems and low-level driver development.
  • Linux and RTOS Configuration: Skilled in embedded Linux kernel, bootloader customization, and real-time OS development.
  • Secure Communication & Hardware Integration: Experienced with secure networking protocols and hardware interfaces like SPI, PCIe, and Ethernet.
  • Technical Leadership: Proven ability to mentor junior engineers and lead software development teams effectively.

WHAT YOU'LL NEED:
  • Bachelor's Degree in Electrical or Computer Engineering, Computer Science, or related field.
  • 9+ years of experience developing embedded software.
  • Advanced proficiency in C/C++ for embedded systems.
  • Deep experience with embedded Linux systems, kernel configuration, and bootloaders.
  • Strong understanding of RTOS and real-time constraints.
  • Experience interpreting schematics and hardware documentation for driver development.
  • Proficient in networking and communications protocols with secure communication standards.
  • Familiarity with cryptographic principles and embedded security applications.
  • Experience in software integration, debugging, and system-level validation.
  • Familiarity with parallel-processing frameworks such as OpenCL or CUDA is a plus.
  • Excellent problem-solving, documentation, and communication skills.
  • Proven mentoring and collaborative skills.
  • Active U.S. Security Clearance required.

COMPENSATION & BENEFITS:
The starting base salary for this position ranges from $170,000 to $215,000 per year, depending on the candidate's job-related knowledge, skills, and experience. In addition to a competitive base salary, Innoflight offers a well-rounded compensation package that includes a Profit-Sharing Bonus and a Cash Performance Bonus to reward both individual and company performance. Additional benefits include:
  • 401(k) with 3% company match (automatic enrollment)
  • Comprehensive medical, dental, vision, HSA & life insurance
  • 10 paid holidays + 120 hours PTO (starting in year one)
  • Access to ancillary benefits such as critical illness, accident, disability, legal and pet insurance.

WHY YOU'LL LOVE WORKING HERE:
  • Flexible Work-Life Balance: Enjoy a 9/80 work schedule with every other Friday off-whether you use it to recharge, work on a passion project, or spend time with family, the choice is yours.
  • Continuous Learning & Development: We're serious about professional development. From tuition reimbursement to internal "Ask Me Anything" sessions and weekly "Lunch & Learns," we make learning a core part of the job.
  • Mission-Driven Culture: We aren't just building tech-we're enabling the next era of space exploration. Our Culture Ambassadors help lead initiatives around inclusion, positivity, recognition, and transparency. Here, your voice is heard, your work is respected, and your individuality is celebrated.

BE YOU, WITH US:
At Innoflight, we are committed to fostering an inclusive and equitable workplace where everyone belongs. We recognize that great talent comes in many forms, and you don't need to meet every requirement to bring value to our team. If this role excites you, we encourage you to apply-even if you don't check every box.
YOU SHOULD KNOW:
Potential new employees must successfully complete a background check which includes criminal search, education certification and employment verification prior to hire. Applicants must be authorized to work for any employer in the U.S as you must have the ability to obtain a security clearance. We are unable to sponsor or take over sponsorship of an employment Visa.
REFERRALS:
We love a good referral! If you know someone that would be a great fit for this position, please share!
A NOTE TO STAFFING AGENCIES:
Innoflight does not accept unsolicited resumes from agencies, recruiters, or any third-party sources. Any such submissions will be considered property of Innoflight, and no fees will be paid in the event a candidate is hired from an unsolicited referral.
To California residents applying for this job, please read Innoflight's CCPA Notice: https://www.innoflight.com/careers/california-consumer-privacy-act-notice-for-job-applicants.
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