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Microcontroller Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Gridware

Senior Firmware Engineer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$190K - $195K/yr

Develop C/C++ firmware for our microcontroller platform * Implement drivers for microcontroller peripherals and external sensors * Work with our backend codebase to develop and test device ...

Joby Aviation

Senior Embedded Software Engineer

Santa Cruz, CA · On-site

$143K - $187K/yr

Having a strong understanding of system, software, microcontroller, and FPGA designs are all desired. * You will be responsible for designing and implementing the embedded C++ software that runs on ...

Gridware

Senior Firmware Engineer

San Francisco, CA

$190K - $195K/yr

Develop C/C++ firmware for our microcontroller platform * Implement drivers for microcontroller peripherals and external sensors * Work with our backend codebase to develop and test device ...

Gridware

Senior Firmware Engineer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$190K - $195K/yr

Develop C/C++ firmware for our microcontroller platform * Implement drivers for microcontroller peripherals and external sensors * Work with our backend codebase to develop and test device ...

Etched

Platform Validation Engineer

San Jose, CA · On-site

$150K - $275K/yr

Validate power sequencing, microcontroller functionality, and conduct power efficiency, noise, and transient analysis * Perform detailed characterization of I2C bus systems to ensure compliance with ...

Etched

PCB Hardware Validation Engineer

Cupertino, CA · On-site

$2.0K/mo

Validate power sequencing, ensure critical microcontroller functions are operating correctly, and conduct power efficiency, noise, and transient analysis * Perform in-depth characterization of I2C ...

Etched

PCB Hardware Validation Engineer

Cupertino, CA · On-site

$2.0K/mo

Validate power sequencing, ensure critical microcontroller functions are operating correctly, and conduct power efficiency, noise, and transient analysis * Perform in-depth characterization of I2C ...

Etched

Platform Validation Engineer

San Jose, CA · On-site

$150K - $275K/yr

Validate power sequencing, microcontroller functionality, and conduct power efficiency, noise, and transient analysis * Perform detailed characterization of I2C bus systems to ensure compliance with ...

RED CAT HOLDINGS

Associate Embedded Engineer

Torrance, CA

$137K - $180K/yr

In this role, you will assist with implementing and validating new features across microcontroller and embedded Linux platforms, write and test embedded code in C/C++/Rust, develop Python tools for ...

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Microcontroller information

See California salary details

$75K

$126.3K

$186K

How much do microcontroller jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for microcontroller in California is $126,303.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $99,700.00 and $150,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are careers in microelectronics?

Careers in microelectronics include roles such as microcontroller engineers, circuit designers, and embedded systems developers. These positions typically require knowledge of electronics, programming skills, and experience with tools like CAD software and testing equipment. Professionals in this field work in industries such as consumer electronics, automotive, and telecommunications, often requiring relevant certifications or degrees in electrical engineering or related fields.

What is a Microcontroller job?

A Microcontroller job involves working with small, programmable computing devices used in embedded systems. Professionals in this role design, develop, and troubleshoot microcontroller-based applications for industries like automotive, consumer electronics, and industrial automation. Responsibilities may include writing firmware, optimizing power consumption, and integrating hardware components. Strong knowledge of programming languages such as C/C++ and an understanding of electronics are essential.

What engineer makes $500,000 a year?

Highly experienced engineers in specialized fields such as software engineering, data science, or engineering management can earn $500,000 or more annually, especially in senior or executive roles at large technology companies. These positions often require advanced skills, certifications, and extensive industry experience.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Microcontroller position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Microcontroller Engineer, you need a solid background in embedded systems, electronics, and programming languages such as C or C++. Familiarity with development environments, circuit design tools, and microcontroller families (like ARM, PIC, or AVR), as well as certifications such as Embedded Systems Certifications, are typically valuable. Problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective teamwork make someone stand out in this position. These skills ensure the reliable design, testing, and implementation of microcontroller-based solutions that meet complex project requirements.

What are the typical responsibilities of a Microcontroller Engineer in a project team?

Microcontroller Engineers are responsible for designing, programming, and testing embedded systems that control devices or processes. Their daily tasks often include writing and debugging firmware, integrating sensors and peripherals, and collaborating closely with hardware engineers and product designers to ensure seamless system functionality. They may also participate in code reviews, system validation, and troubleshooting field issues. Working on interdisciplinary teams, Microcontroller Engineers often contribute to hardware selection and optimization, making their role essential throughout the product development lifecycle.

Will AI replace embedded developers?

Embedded developers design and program microcontrollers and embedded systems, and while AI can assist with coding and automation, it is unlikely to fully replace these professionals due to the need for specialized knowledge, system integration, and troubleshooting. AI tools can enhance productivity but still require human oversight and expertise in hardware and real-time constraints.

What is the job of a microcontroller?

A microcontroller job involves designing, programming, and testing embedded systems that control electronic devices. It requires knowledge of programming languages like C or Assembly, and understanding of hardware components and real-time operation. Microcontroller professionals often work in industries such as consumer electronics, automotive, and automation.
What are the most commonly searched types of Microcontroller jobs in California? The most popular types of Microcontroller jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Microcontroller jobs in California? For Microcontroller jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Microcontroller jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Microcontroller jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Microcontroller jobs? Cities in California with the most Microcontroller job openings:
Microcontroller jobs near you
Infographic showing various Microcontroller job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Internship, 92% Full Time, 2% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $126,303 per year, or $60.7 per hour.

Senior/Staff Embedded Software Engineer, Robotics Devices

RoboForce

Milpitas, CA

$144K - $189K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 23 days ago

Job description

Why RoboForce

RoboForce is an AI robotics company developing Physical AI-powered Robo-Labor for dull, dirty, and dangerous work. The company's robots are engineered for demanding industrial environments, with a focus on real-world deployment and scalability.

We are seeking a Senior/Staff Embedded Software Engineer, Robotic Devices to architect and develop the embedded systems that interface directly with our robot's physical hardware. In this role, you will work across embedded Linux, RTOS, and microcontroller platforms to design device drivers, middleware, and on-device software for sensors, actuators, and robotic subsystems. You will span vendor selection, low-level programming, system integration, and performance debugging-ensuring reliable operation at the boundary between software and the physical world.

Responsibilities 

  • Embedded Systems Architecture: Lead the design, development, and deployment of embedded software stacks for robotic devices across embedded Linux, RTOS, and microcontroller-based platforms.
  • Device & Sensor Integration: Architect and implement software solutions for a wide range of sensors and devices, including vendor evaluation, on-device programming, communication protocols, and driver/middleware development.
  • Performance & Reliability Engineering: Perform in-depth performance analysis and hardware/software debugging to ensure real-time behavior, robustness, and reliability under demanding operating conditions.
  • Hardware-Software Co-Design: Apply a deep understanding of the physics of physical devices to inform system design, control interfaces, and performance tradeoffs.
  • Technical Leadership: Contribute to long-term technical roadmap planning, mentor junior and senior engineers, and uphold high standards through rigorous code reviews and best practices.

Requirements 

  • Education: Bachelor's degree or higher in a STEM field.
  • Experience: 5+ years of experience building and shipping production-quality software, with a focus on embedded or systems-level development.
  • Programming Expertise: Strong proficiency in modern C++ and Python, with experience developing performance-critical and hardware-adjacent software.
  • Systems Engineering: Experience working with large, complex systems and building tooling to support development, testing, and deployment.
  • Hardware Literacy: Experience reviewing schematics and collaborating closely with hardware teams.
  • Quality & Testability: Strong commitment to software quality, including designing systems for testability, reliability, and long-term maintainability.
  • Requires 5 days/week in-office collaboration with the teams.

Bonus Qualifications 

  • Robotics Frameworks: Experience with ROS-based robotics development.
  • Sensor Systems: Hands-on experience with camera, LiDAR, or radar integration.
  • Signal Processing & Control: Background in DSP, sensor calibration, and/or motor controller development.

Benefits

  • Competitive stock options/equity programs.
  • Health, dental, and vision insurance, 401(k) plan.
  • Visa sponsorship and green card support for qualified candidates.
  • Lunches and dinners, a fully stocked kitchen, and regular team-building events.

Apply