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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 ...

Abbott

Principal Embedded Software Engineer

Alameda, CA · On-site

$130K - $261K/yr

The Sr Staff Embedded Software Engineer leads the development, verification, ensuring timely delivery and adherence to FDA-compliant design control procedures. They provide technical leadership ...

Abbott

Principal Embedded Software Engineer

Alameda, CA · On-site

$130K - $261K/yr

The Sr Staff Embedded Software Engineer leads the development, verification, ensuring timely delivery and adherence to FDA-compliant design control procedures. They provide technical leadership ...

Abbott

Principal Embedded Software Engineer

Alameda, CA · On-site

$130K - $261K/yr

The Sr Staff Embedded Software Engineer leads the development, verification, ensuring timely delivery and adherence to FDA-compliant design control procedures. They provide technical leadership ...

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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 Jun 12, 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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Principal Embedded Software Engineer jobs near you
Principal Embedded Software Engineer

Principal Embedded Software Engineer

Fortinet, Inc.

Sunnyvale, CA • On-site

$140K - $190K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 7 days ago

Job description

Job Description
WiFi team is looking for a Principal Embedded Software Engineer with C programming and networking knowledge to join our team. This is a great opportunity to immerse yourself in all phases of the software development cycle to reach new product launches and feature development for our Enterprise Wireless solutions. This position offers a large scope of experience and direct involvement with complex and innovative technology. In addition, you will be working alongside a close-knit team of experienced software developers.
Job Responsibilities:
  • Develop Secured Enterprise Wireless products and features
  • Linux kernel/driver development of popular Wifi chipsets
  • Wifi security protocol implementation

Job Requirements:
  • Proficient C programming skill
  • Excellent problem solving and troubleshooting skills.
  • Strong knowledge or experience with network and system design
  • Passion and talent on Linux Kernel and application development
  • Highly motivated, positive, detail oriented and responsible
  • Good team player and good communication skills
  • 802.11, 802.1x and Enterprise Wireless solution experience is plus

Education Requirement:
  • Bachelor's Degree in Computer Science or Electrical Engineering is required
  • Master's Degree is preferred

Must be authorized to work in the U.S. without sponsorship
The US base salary range for this full-time position is $140,000-$190,000. 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 Us
Fortinet (NASDAQ: FTNT) secures the largest enterprise, service provider, and government organizations around the world. Fortinet empowers its customers with intelligent, seamless protection across the expanding attack surface and the power to take on ever-increasing performance requirements of the borderless network - today and into the future. Only the Fortinet Security Fabric architecture can deliver security without compromise to address the most critical security challenges, whether in networked, application, cloud or mobile environments. Fortinet ranks number one in the most security appliances shipped worldwide and more than 500,000 customers trust Fortinet to protect their businesses.
We are committed to providing reasonable accommodations for all qualified individuals with disabilities. If you require assistance or accommodation due to a disability, please contact us at accommodations@fortinet.com.
Fortinet is an equal opportunity employer. We value diversity in our company, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, military/veteran status or any other applicable legally protected characteristics in the location in which the candidate is applying.

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