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Principal Embedded Software Engineer Jobs in California

Motorola

Principal Embedded Software Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

$180K - $250K/yr

THE OPPORTUNITY Silvus is seeking a Principal Embedded Software Engineer to join our Engineering Group, reporting to the Senior Engineering Director for our Irvine office. The successful individual ...

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All JobsPrincipal Embedded Software Engineer JobsPrincipal Embedded Software Engineer Jobs in California

Principal Embedded Software Engineer information

See California salary details

$118.9K

$160.2K

$185K

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

As of Jul 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for principal embedded software engineer in California is $160,233.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $149,000.00 and $173,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

AspectPrincipal Embedded Software EngineerEmbedded Software Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's/Master's in Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or related; extensive experienceBachelor's in relevant field; entry to mid-level experience
Work EnvironmentLeadership roles in R&D teams, system architecture, and designDevelopment, coding, testing embedded systems
Employer & Industry UsageTech companies, automotive, aerospace, industrial automationSimilar industries, often as a team member
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding senior roles, responsibilities, and qualificationsEntry to mid-level job distinctions

The Principal Embedded Software Engineer typically holds a senior leadership role with extensive experience, focusing on system architecture and strategic development. In contrast, an Embedded Software Engineer is more involved in coding and testing at an entry or mid-level. Both roles are vital in embedded systems development but differ in scope, responsibility, and experience requirements.

What does a Principal Embedded Software Engineer do?

A Principal Embedded Software Engineer is a senior-level professional who designs, develops, and oversees software that runs on embedded systems, such as microcontrollers and specialized hardware devices. They are responsible for leading software architecture decisions, mentoring junior engineers, and ensuring the reliability and efficiency of the embedded software. Their work often involves close collaboration with hardware engineers and cross-functional teams to deliver integrated solutions. Principal Embedded Software Engineers also play a key role in setting technical standards and driving innovation within their organization.

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

To thrive as a Principal Embedded Software Engineer, you need advanced expertise in embedded systems programming, real-time operating systems, and a strong background in computer engineering or related fields, often supported by a bachelor’s or master’s degree. Familiarity with technical tools like C/C++, embedded Linux, microcontroller development environments, and certifications such as Certified Embedded Systems Engineer are typically required. Leadership, effective communication, and problem-solving abilities are essential soft skills to guide teams and collaborate with cross-functional stakeholders. These skills and qualities are crucial for successfully architecting complex embedded solutions and driving innovation in product development.

How does a Principal Embedded Software Engineer typically collaborate with cross-functional teams during product development?

As a Principal Embedded Software Engineer, you will frequently work alongside hardware engineers, system architects, and product managers to ensure seamless integration of software and hardware components. You may lead technical discussions, provide guidance on system constraints, and participate in design reviews to align on specifications and timelines. Effective communication and collaboration are essential, as you'll be responsible for translating product requirements into reliable embedded solutions while mentoring junior engineers and ensuring best practices across the team.
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What job categories do people searching Principal Embedded Software Engineer jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Principal Embedded Software Engineer jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Principal Embedded Software Engineer jobs in CA? For Principal Embedded Software Engineer jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Principal Embedded Software Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Principal Embedded Software Engineer job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 89% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $160,233 per year, or $77 per hour.
Principal Embedded Software Developer

Principal Embedded Software Developer

Fortinet

Sunnyvale, CA • On-site

$170K - $210K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 9 days ago

Job description

Join Fortinet, a cybersecurity pioneer with over two decades of excellence, as we continue to shape the future of cybersecurity and redefine the intersection of networking and security. At Fortinet, our mission is to safeguard people, devices, and data everywhere. We are currently seeking a Principal Embedded Software Developer for our FortiSwitch Team

As a Principal Embedded Software Developer, you will:

  • Develop and maintain software components on current and future products.
  • Be responsible for the development of the networking-related features of the FortiSwitch product line.
  • Mentor 1-2 junior developers in feature development
  • Take a hands on in bug fixing current products.
  • Implement software features of high quality and on schedule.
  • Communicate effectively, both verbal and written.

We Are Looking For:

  • Minimum of 10 years of experience in Networking, particularly in switching, related embedded software development.
  • B.S. in Computer Science or Electrical Engineering; M.S. preferred.
  • Experience in implementing L2/L3 features such as STP, DHCP, LACP, LLDP, MC-LAG, Private VLAN, L2/L3 Multicast, EVPN, RIP, OSPF, IS-IS, BGP, TRILL 803.1X, Port Extension, Switch Stacking, Open vSwitch.
  • In-depth knowledge of TCP/IP networking, switching and routing.
  • Understanding of workings of Broadcom/Marvell/RealTek switching ASICs in an Ethernet switch/router.
  • Strong C/C++ experience in Unix/Linux environment is essential.
  • Experience with ARM, PPC and x86 architectures in a multi process/thread programming environment
  • Familiarity with system installations, configurations, and troubleshooting.
  • Knowledge of scripting languages: Shell, Ruby, Python a plus.
  • Understanding of general QA procedures and methodologies as well as software development fundamentals.
  • Experience with firewalls is a plus
  • Experience with Linux kernel and driver development is plus.

Must be authorized to work in the U.S. without sponsorship.

The US base salary range for this full-time position is $170,000 - $210,000. Fortinet offers employees a variety of benefits, including medical, dental, vision, life and disability insurance, 401(k), 11 paid holidays, vacation time, and sick time as well as a comprehensive leave program. Wage ranges are based on various factors including the labor market, job type, and job level. Exact salary offers will be determined by factors such as the candidate's subject knowledge, skill level, qualifications, experience, and geographic location. All roles are eligible to participate in the Fortinet equity program, Bonus eligibility is reviewed at time of hire and annually at the Company's discretion.

About Our Team:

Join our team, known for its collaborative ethos, working seamlessly with global customers, internal engineering teams and product development groups. Our team culture emphasizes continuous learning, innovation, and a strong commitment to customer satisfaction. We embrace Fortinet's core values of openness, teamwork and innovation, fostering an environment where team members support each other, share knowledge. Our inclusive and dynamic team thrives on collaboration and is driven by the shared goal of maintaining Fortinet's high standards of excellence in cybersecurity solutions

Why Join Us:

We encourage candidates from all backgrounds and identities to apply. We offer a supportive work environment and a competitive Total Rewards package to support you with your overall health and financial well-being. Embark on a challenging, enjoyable, and rewarding career journey with Fortinet. Join us in bringing solutions that make a meaningful and lasting impact to our 660,000+ customers around the globe

Apply