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Microprocessor Design Engineer Jobs in Boston, MA

Embedded Firmware Engineering Manager

Canton, MA · On-site

$108K - $149K/yr

Contribute individually and direct a small team (2-4) of firmware engineers to design, develop ... Strong understanding of FPGA and/or microprocessor architectures, peripherals, and communication ...

Relay Settings Engineer

Framingham, MA · On-site +1

$57K - $104K/yr

Support a full range of project planning activities through design and construction support ... Ability to learn development of relay settings for microprocessor relays including: SEL, Alstom, GE ...

Responsible for defining, selecting, and performing design validation methods by utilizing ... Hands-on experience testing electronic hardware including RF, embedded microprocessor systems ...

Advanced Test Engineer

Acton, MA · On-site

$103K - $155K/yr

Responsible for defining, selecting, and performing design validation methods by utilizing ... Hands-on experience testing electronic hardware including RF, embedded microprocessor systems ...

Support a full range of project planning activities through design and construction support ... Experience with development of relay settings for microprocessor relays including: SEL, Alstom, GE ...

Embedded Firmware Engineering Manager

Canton, MA · On-site

$108K - $149K/yr

Contribute individually and direct a small team (2-4) of firmware engineers to design, develop ... Strong understanding of FPGA and/or microprocessor architectures, peripherals, and communication ...

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Microprocessor Design Engineer information

See Boston, MA salary details

$36.9K

$113.5K

$159.7K

How much do microprocessor design engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 20, 2026, the average yearly pay for microprocessor design engineer in Boston, MA is $113,517.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $95,100.00 and $132,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Can computer engineers make $500,000?

Microprocessor design engineers and other experienced computer engineers in specialized fields such as semiconductor design or high-level research can potentially earn $500,000 or more annually, especially with senior roles, advanced skills, and in high-cost living areas. Achieving this level often requires extensive experience, advanced degrees, and expertise in areas like VHDL, FPGA, or ASIC development.

What does a Microprocessor Design Engineer do?

A Microprocessor Design Engineer is responsible for designing, developing, and testing the core processing units (microprocessors) used in computers, smartphones, and other electronic devices. Their work involves creating detailed architecture and logic designs, verifying circuit functionality, collaborating with software and hardware teams, and optimizing performance and power consumption. These engineers use specialized design tools and simulation software to ensure that microprocessors meet technical specifications and industry standards.

What are some common challenges faced by Microprocessor Design Engineers during the chip development cycle?

Microprocessor Design Engineers often encounter challenges such as meeting stringent performance, power, and area requirements while ensuring design correctness and manufacturability. Coordinating with cross-functional teams—such as verification, physical design, and software engineering—can be complex, especially when addressing last-minute design changes or debugging unexpected hardware behaviors. Additionally, staying up-to-date with evolving design tools, methodologies, and semiconductor technologies is essential for success in this fast-paced field.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior microprocessor design engineers with extensive experience, advanced skills in hardware architecture, and often holding advanced degrees or certifications can earn $300,000 or more annually. These roles typically require expertise in VHDL/Verilog, FPGA/ASIC design, and leadership responsibilities in high-tech industries or large corporations.

What is the salary of microprocessor Design Engineer?

The salary of a microprocessor design engineer typically ranges from $80,000 to $150,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and company size. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced engineers with specialized skills in hardware description languages and FPGA design can earn higher salaries.

What engineers make $500,000?

Senior microprocessor design engineers with extensive experience, advanced skills in hardware architecture, and often holding advanced degrees or certifications can reach salaries of $500,000 or more, especially in high-cost living areas or within leading technology companies. Such roles typically involve leadership responsibilities, specialized expertise, and may include bonuses or stock options that contribute to total compensation.

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

To thrive as a Microprocessor Design Engineer, you need a solid background in computer engineering or electrical engineering, with expertise in digital logic design, microarchitecture, and VLSI principles. Proficiency with hardware description languages (such as Verilog or VHDL), simulation tools (like ModelSim or Synopsys), and familiarity with EDA tools are typically required. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective teamwork distinguish top performers in this role. These skills and qualities are crucial for creating innovative, reliable, and efficient microprocessor designs that meet rigorous performance and industry standards.
What job categories do people searching Microprocessor Design Engineer jobs in Boston, MA look for? The top searched job categories for Microprocessor Design Engineer jobs in Boston, MA are:
Embedded Firmware Engineering Manager

Embedded Firmware Engineering Manager

Analogic

Canton, MA • On-site

$108K - $149K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 29 days ago


Job description

Copley Controls is a leading innovator in the field of motion control products, dedicated to delivering high-performance solutions for a wide range of industries, including robotics, automation, aerospace, and more. Our commitment to excellence and cutting-edge technology drives us to continuously push the boundaries of what is possible. We are seeking a highly skilled and motivated Embedded Firmware Engineering Manager to join our dynamic team. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in real-time embedded systems and firmware development and experience leading a small team of firmware engineers. As an Embedded Firmware Engineering Manager, you will play a critical role in leading the development, design, testing, and optimization of firmware for our advanced motion control systems.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

  • Contribute individually and direct a small team (2-4) of firmware engineers to design, develop, test, and maintain firmware for motion control products, ensuring high performance, reliability, and scalability.
  • Manage and mentor the firmware engineering team to achieve project goals in alignment with Analogic/Copley Controls core values.
  • Work independently and collaborate with cross-functional teams, including hardware engineers, software developers, and applications engineers to define firmware requirements and specifications.
  • Oversee the implementation and optimization of control algorithms for various motion control applications, such as motor control, servo systems, and robotics.
  • Conduct/Oversee thorough testing and debugging of firmware to ensure that functionality and performance meet or exceed product requirements.
  • Develop and maintain documentation for firmware design, implementation, and testing processes. Set and maintain expectations for best practices related to these processes including with Jira and version control systems (e.g., Bitbucket, Git).
  • Participate in code reviews and provide constructive feedback to ensure high-quality code and adherence to best practices.
  • Support the integration of firmware with hardware and software components and help to lead troubleshooting efforts to resolve any issues that arise.
  • Lead continuous improvement initiatives, identifying opportunities to enhance firmware development processes and methodologies.
  • Stay up to date with the latest advancements in embedded systems, development tools, motion control technologies, and industry standards.

Education, Work Experience, Skills and Competencies Requirements:

  • Bachelor's or Master's degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field.
  • 10+ years’ proven experience in firmware development with real-time embedded systems, preferably in the motion control industry.
  • Demonstrated ability to effectively lead small teams in developing embedded firmware
  • Proficiency in programming languages such as C/C++, Verilog, Python.
  • Strong understanding of FPGA and/or microprocessor architectures, peripherals, and communication protocols (e.g., UART, SPI, CANopen, EtherCAT).
  • Experience with real-time operating systems (RTOS) and embedded development tools (e.g., debuggers, emulators, oscilloscopes).
  • Familiarity with hardware design principles and the ability to read and interpret schematics and datasheets.
  • Excellent problem-solving skills and the ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, collaborative environment.
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to convey technical concepts to both technical and non-technical stakeholders.
  • Experience with motor control technologies, such as brushless DC motors, stepper motors, and servo systems is preferred.
  • Knowledge of control theory and experience with implementing control algorithms for motion control applications is a plus.
  • Knowledge of Functional Safety requirements, standards and regulatory requirements related to motion control products is a plus.
What We Offer
We appreciate that our employees work diligently to contribute to our success as an organization. We also recognize the importance of work-life balance and therefore developed a competitive total rewards package including programs that offer employees flexibility to balance their work and life including:
 
  • 9/80 work schedule – enjoy every other Friday off!
  • Flexible Vacation – employees can take time off as is reasonably needed
  • Comprehensive benefits including medical, dental, vision, life insurance and disability plans.
  • HRA (for PPO plan participants) /HSA (Health Savings Account for high deductible plan participants) contribution
  • 401K with company match and immediate vesting
  • Continuous Education Assistance
  • Supportive culture that values innovation, collaboration, and excellence