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Junior Embedded Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Embedded Systems Software Engineer

San Diego, CA ยท On-site

$122.50 - $183.70/hr

Provide technical guidance and mentorship to junior engineers, and act as a strong individual ... Familiarity with automotive or embedded SoCs. * Exposure to QNX networking or other RTOS networking ...

Sr. Engineer, Embedded Firmware

San Jose, CA ยท On-site

$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.

Sr. Engineer, Embedded Firmware

San Jose, CA ยท 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.

Showing results 21-40

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 Sep 5, 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?

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 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:

Infographic showing various Junior Embedded Engineer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 6% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $70,859 per year, or $34.1 per hour.

Senior Embedded Software Engineer - RUST

Innoflight LLC

San Diego, CA โ€ข On-site

$170K - $190K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 12 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Design and develop cyber secure embedded software for satellite avionics and payload data processing systems.

  • Work with hardware interfaces, networking protocols, and cryptographic techniques to ensure secure and reliable system operation.

  • Provide technical leadership, mentorship, and guidance to junior engineers throughout the software development lifecycle.


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 – RUST, you’ll lead the design and development of cyber secure embedded software for satellite avionics and payload data processing systems. You’ll implement real-time monitoring, Linux board support packages, and low-level interfaces for sensors, communication buses, radios, and COMSEC devices. You’ll work closely with Systems, Hardware, and FPGA teams to deliver secure, rugged, and reliable Low-SWaP solutions for aerospace applications. In addition, you’ll provide mentorship and SME-level guidance to support the growth and success of the engineering team.
WHAT YOU’LL DO

  • Design and Implement Secure Software: Develop cyber secure embedded software for multi-core processors integrated with FPGA systems (Xilinx, Microsemi, Microchip, Vorago) using C/C++ and RUST.
  • Develop Multi-Core Solutions: Design and implement embedded solutions for multi-processor and memory-managed systems on ARM Cortex and RISC-V architectures.
  • Embedded Linux and RTOS Expertise: Lead the development of Embedded Linux solutions, managing inter-process and multi-core communications, and integrate with other RTOS implementations as needed.
  • Implement Networking and Security Protocols: Build RFC-compliant high-speed networking and security protocols (IP, TLS, IPsec) for embedded systems.
  • Integrate Hardware Interfaces: Work with SPI, I2C, UART, GPIO, PCI, PCIe, Ethernet, and SpaceWire interconnect standards to ensure seamless system operation.
  • Apply Cryptographic Principles: Design and implement secure software using AES, RSA, ECDSA, ECDH, Secure Boot, Root of Trust, Zero Trust, signed applications, and other secure system techniques.
  • Lead Software Development: Drive development and testing of reusable, high-quality software modules while ensuring Secure System best practices are followed at the architecture, design, and code levels.
  • Translate Requirements: Convert complex customer and system-level requirements into robust, scalable software designs.
  • Support Integration and Debugging: Collaborate on system integration, debugging, and validation of software on custom hardware platforms.
  • Track Features and Releases: Maintain software configuration, defect tracking, and release management throughout the product lifecycle.
  • Mentor and Guide Team: Provide technical leadership, mentorship, and guidance to junior engineers through design reviews, code walkthroughs, and collaborative problem-solving.

YOU’RE AWESOME AT:

  • Cyber Secure Embedded Development: You excel at designing and implementing secure, reliable software for multi-core embedded systems.
  • System-Level Leadership: You can independently drive complex software projects while providing guidance and mentorship to the team.
  • Hardware/Software Integration: You’re skilled at interpreting schematics, hardware documentation, and integrating software with complex embedded systems.
  • Technical Communication: You clearly document designs, communicate technical concepts, and collaborate across engineering disciplines.

WHAT YOU’LL NEED:

  • Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, or a related discipline.
  • 9 or more years of experience developing secure embedded systems and software.
  • Proficiency in RUST and C/C++ for embedded systems and low-level driver development.
  • Advanced proficiency in memory-managed embedded languages such as Rust, Go, or similar for secure systems.
  • Experience with RTOS-based development and real-time system constraints.
  • Ability to interpret schematics and hardware documentation for driver and software development.
  • Proficient in networking and communication protocols, including secure communication standards.
  • Familiarity with cryptographic principles and their application in embedded systems.
  • Experience with software integration, debugging, and system-level validation.
  • Excellent problem-solving, documentation, and technical communication skills.
  • Proven ability to mentor and support junior engineers in a collaborative environment.
  • Ability to obtain a U.S. Security Clearance.

COMPENSATION & BENEFITS:
The starting base salary for this position ranges from $170,000 to $190,000 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.
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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