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Lead Embedded Software Engineer Jobs in California

Embedded Software Engineer

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

$154K - $203K/yr

Embedded Software Engineer, Santa Clara, CA We are seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Embedded Software Engineer to join a dynamic team. The ideal Embedded Software Engineer will possess a solid ...

Embedded Software Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

$141K - $185K/yr

Embedded Software Engineer Location: Irvine, California (onsite) Duration: Long Term Contract/Full time option as well. Job Overview: We are looking for an experienced Embedded Software Engineer to ...

Embedded Software Engineer

Carlsbad, CA · On-site

$136K - $179K/yr

Job Title: Embedded Software Engineer Location: Carlsbad, CA or Marlborough, MA Duration: 6+ Months This position is open to W-2 CANDIDATES ONLY who are authorized to work in the USA WITHOUT ...

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Showing results 1-20

Lead Embedded Software Engineer information

See California salary details

$14.3K

$131.5K

$180.1K

How much do lead embedded software engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for lead embedded software engineer in California is $131,548.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $112,000.00 and $153,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Lead Embedded Software Engineer vs Embedded Software Engineer?

AspectLead Embedded Software EngineerEmbedded Software Engineer
ResponsibilitiesLeading development teams, designing system architecture, overseeing project executionWriting and testing embedded software, implementing features, debugging
Required SkillsAdvanced programming, leadership, system design, communication skillsProficient in C/C++, RTOS, hardware integration, debugging
Experience5+ years, leadership experience preferred1-3 years, technical focus
Work EnvironmentCollaborative teams, project management, client interactionDevelopment labs, hardware testing, coding

The main difference between a Lead Embedded Software Engineer and an Embedded Software Engineer lies in leadership and project scope. The lead role involves guiding teams and overseeing system design, while the embedded engineer focuses on coding and testing. Both roles require strong technical skills, but the lead position demands additional experience in management and architecture.

How does a Lead Embedded Software Engineer typically collaborate with hardware and cross-functional teams during project development?

As a Lead Embedded Software Engineer, close collaboration with hardware engineers and cross-functional teams is essential throughout the product lifecycle. You'll regularly participate in design reviews, align software implementation with hardware specifications, and troubleshoot integration issues. Effective communication and coordination are vital to ensure that firmware interacts seamlessly with hardware components and meets performance goals. You'll also mentor junior engineers and often act as a technical liaison between software, hardware, and product management teams.

What does a Lead Embedded Software Engineer do?

A Lead Embedded Software Engineer is responsible for designing, developing, and maintaining software that runs on embedded systems, such as microcontrollers or specialized hardware. They lead a team of engineers, oversee project timelines, and ensure software quality by following best practices in coding, testing, and documentation. Their role often involves collaborating with hardware engineers to optimize system performance and integrating software with hardware components. They also mentor junior team members and contribute to technical decision-making throughout the product development cycle.

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

To thrive as a Lead Embedded Software Engineer, you need expertise in embedded systems development, proficiency in languages such as C/C++, and a strong background in computer science or electrical engineering. Familiarity with embedded operating systems (like RTOS), version control systems (such as Git), and industry certifications (e.g., Certified Embedded Systems Engineer) are typically expected. Leadership, problem-solving, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for managing teams and collaborating with cross-functional stakeholders. These capabilities ensure robust product development, successful project delivery, and innovation in complex technical environments.
Infographic showing various Lead Embedded Software Engineer job openings in California as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 85% Full Time, 1% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 12% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $131,548 per year, or $63.2 per hour.
Lead Embedded Software Engineer

Lead Embedded Software Engineer

Curtisswright

Santa Clarita, CA

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 25 days ago


Curtiss-Wright rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 34 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

72nd of 417 rated machine equipment manufacturers


Job description

Lead Embedded Software Engineer - Defense (Onsite)

We have an exciting opportunity for a Lead Embedded Software Engineer to join our team in Santa Clarita CA.

As our Lead Embedded Software Engineer, you will perform activities under all software lifecycle phases from planning to release, and subsequent maintenance and support. You will act as a technical expert in the architecture design, development, coding, testing and debugging of new software for embedded systems or enhancements to existing software, while demonstrating a strong sense of responsibility, commitment to quality, and maintaining a positive and productive collaboration within the team.

Location: Santa Clarita, CA - Onsite

Salary: 108,900.00 - 145,200.00 per year plus potential bonus

Please note that the salary range information provided is a general guideline only, reflecting a position based in CA. Criteria such as the candidate's qualifications and relevant experience, the scope of the specific position, as well as market and business considerations will be evaluated when extending an offer.

We Take Care of Our People

Paid Time Off I 401K with Employer Match and Profit Sharing I Health and Wellness Benefits I Learning and Development Opportunities I Referral Program I Competitive Pay I Recognition I Employee Stock Purchase PlanI Inclusive & Supportive Culture

Your Challenge:

  • Design, implement, test, and debug new embedded software

  • Support or develop enhancements to existing embedded software

  • Work with technical staff to understand and develop resolution of software problems

  • Resolve customer complaints with software and respond to suggestions for software modifications or enhancements

  • Develop and maintain software technical documentation, including software planning, requirements, design, test, and user manuals

  • Interface with hardware development team to resolve hardware bring-up issues

  • Participate in peer reviews for requirements, design, documentation, or source code, and collaborate with team members

  • Apply established software development processes and participate in process improvement opportunities

What You Bring:

  • Bachelor's degree in computer, Software or Electrical Engineering (or equivalent)

  • Minimum of four years' experience in Embedded Software development

  • Experience leading software development projects preferred

  • Proficiency with software development in ANSI C, and scripting languages such as Python

  • Experience of software development under Linux and RTOS systems (e.g VxWorks)

  • Familiarity with regulatory frameworks for software development (e.g. DO178C, MISRA C/C++)

  • Familiarity with Hardware/Software integration and use of lab equipment (Oscilloscopes, DMMs, Power supplies, etc.)

  • Ability to read and understand hardware schematics and component datasheets

  • BSPs and device driver development under Linux and VxWorks preferred

  • Familiarity with Software Cybersecurity tools preferred

Who We Are:

Our Values

Environmental, Social and Governance

Integrated Systems in Santa Clarita prides itself on experience, expertise, and low risk solutions. Our primary focus is understanding the technical challenges our customers face and creating partnerships in order to provide a high TRL solution.

Some of the services we provide are:

  • System-level architecture

  • Highly skilled program management

  • Industry-leading engineering services

  • Turnkey system design

  • Production capabilities that range from early prototype phase through volume production

To learn more visit: https://www.curtisswrightds.com/about/company/locations/santa-clarita

#LI-YH1

No unsolicited agency submittals please. Agency partners must be invited to participate in a search by our Talent Acquisition Team and have signed terms in place prior to any submittal. Resumes submitted directly to any Curtiss-Wright employee or affiliate will not qualify for fee payment, and therefore become the property of Curtiss-Wright.

Compliance Statement

This position may require exposure to export-controlled information and subject to additional security screening. In the event information provided during the security screening reveals ineligibility to access export-controlled information, any offer of employment may be reconsidered or withdrawn.

Curtiss-Wright is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, ethnicity, color, sexual orientation, gender identity, physical or mental disability, age, ancestry, legally protected medical condition, family care status, marital status, religion, veteran status, national origin, or any other legally protected status. If you require accommodation during the recruitment process, please contactTalent Acquisition.

For US Applicants:EEO is The Law - click here for more information.

If you require accommodation due to a disability at any time during the recruitment and/or assessment process, please contact Talent Acquisition and we will make all reasonable efforts to accommodate your request.


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About Curtiss-Wright

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Curtiss-Wright Actuation Division designs, manufactures and supports electro-mechanical actuation products and systems for use in demanding applications in Aerospace, Defense and Industrial Automation markets. Our market leading solutions help improve the reliability, efficiency and performance of our customers' operations and platforms, as well as reducing their environmental impact with energy efficient electro-mechanical designs and technology. For the Aerospace market, we supply actuation systems for flight control, landing gear, utility and other applications on both commercial and military aircraft. In Ground & Naval Defense markets, we support a wide array of applications ranging from door assist, ramp and hatch actuation, weapons handling systems, radar and launch platform actuation, and robotic (AUV/ROV) actuation. In Industrial Automation, our Exlar® actuators are globally recognized as a leading brand offering high power density, precision and reliability for machine/process applications in automotive, food & beverage, oil & gas, robotics, entertainment and many other industries.

Industry

Computer and electronic product manufacturing

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Davidson, NC, US

Year founded

1929

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