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Principal Embedded Software Engineer Jobs in Colorado

CesiumAstro is seeking an experienced Embedded Software Engineer II with a strong background in embedded Linux development and the Yocto build system. This role is ideal for engineers with hands-on ...

Embedded Software Engineer

Westminster, CO · On-site

$122K - $168K/yr

We are looking for a Software Engineer with firmware or embedded experience to design and develop cutting-edge code for high-precision GNSS products used in Off-Highway and agricultural applications ...

Senior Embedded Software Engineer

Aurora, CO

$126K - $165K/yr

Our Senior Embedded Software Engineer is a technical position that works in an Integrated Product Team (IPT) environment to architect, design, implement, test, debug, and deploy Software for Firmware ...

As a Senior Embedded Software Engineer at Ursa Major, you will design, develop, and maintain the software powering our engines, vehicles, and avionics systems. You will be part of a small, high ...

We are seeking a Software Engineer with deep expertise in Rust and familiarity with embedded systems development to join our cross-functional engineering team. In this role, you'll work across the ...

We are seeking a Software Engineer with deep expertise in Rust and familiarity with embedded systems development to join our cross-functional engineering team. In this role, you'll work across the ...

We are seeking a Software Engineer with deep expertise in Rust and familiarity with embedded systems development to join our cross-functional engineering team. In this role, you'll work across the ...

Senior Embedded Software Engineer

Aurora, CO

$126K - $165K/yr

Our Senior Embedded Software Engineer is a technical position that works in an Integrated Product Team (IPT) environment to architect, design, implement, test, debug, and deploy Software for Firmware ...

Coherent Aerospace & Defense, Emerging Laser Subsystems Business Unit is seeking an embedded software engineer to contribute to the development of advanced laser systems for defense applications.

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Principal Embedded Software Engineer information

See Colorado salary details

$126.7K

$170.7K

$197.2K

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

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for principal embedded software engineer in Colorado is $170,724.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $158,800.00 and $185,100.00 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.
What job categories do people searching Principal Embedded Software Engineer jobs in Colorado look for? The top searched job categories for Principal Embedded Software Engineer jobs in Colorado are:
Infographic showing various Principal Embedded Software Engineer job openings in Colorado as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 89% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 84% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $170,724 per year, or $82.1 per hour.
Embedded Software Engineer II

Embedded Software Engineer II

CesiumAstro

Westminster, CO

$113K - $136K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 18 days ago


Job description

Please Note: To conform with the United States Government Space Technology Export Regulations, the applicant must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S., conditional resident, asylee or refugee (protected individuals as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3)), or eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State.
 
At CesiumAstro, we are developers and pioneers of out-of-the-box communication systems for satellites, UAVs, launch vehicles, and other space and airborne platforms. We take pride in our dynamic and cross-functional work environment, which allows us to learn, develop, and engage across our organization. If you are looking for hands-on, interactive, and autonomous work, CesiumAstro is the place for you. We are actively seeking passionate, collaborative, energetic, and forward-thinking individuals to join our team.  

CesiumAstro is seeking an experienced Embedded Software Engineer II with a strong background in embedded Linux development and the Yocto build system. This role is ideal for engineers with hands-on experience in embedded systems, including device drivers, kernel customization, bootloaders, and board bring-up, with a preference for experience with the Xilinx platform (experience with other platforms is also valued).
 
As a member of our software team, you will contribute to the full software development lifecycle, from product concept through production, participating in architecture design, implementation, testing, qualification, and in-orbit support. This role involves working closely with hardware, systems, and FPGA engineers, and provides opportunities for technical leadership and cross-disciplinary collaboration.
JOB DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Develop and port embedded Linux applications, device drivers, and libraries.
  • Configure, customize, and integrate the Linux kernel and embedded bootloaders (e.g., U-Boot).
  • Maintain and evolve the Yocto-based Linux build system within a CI/CD pipeline.
  • Package and deploy software images for diverse embedded hardware platforms.
  • Create tailored Linux distributions for specific embedded applications.
  • Collaborate across disciplines (firmware, hardware, systems) to ensure seamless system integration and performance.
  • Participate in design reviews and contribute to customer-facing technical documentation and proposals.
JOB REQUIREMENTS AND MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
  • Bachelor's or Master's degree in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or related field.
  • 2+ years of professional experience in embedded software development.
  • Proficiency in C or C++ for embedded systems.
  • Experience developing and debugging software on embedded hardware (e.g., power systems, motors, sensors).
  • Understanding of multi-threaded programming and resource-constrained environments.
  • Familiarity with version control, issue tracking, and peer review workflows.
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills.
PREFERRED EXPERIENCE
  • Practical experience with Embedded Linux and the Yocto Project.
  • Experience with Xilinx SoCs or other microcontroller-based systems.
  • Proficiency with bootloaders, kernel development, and system bring-up.
  • Familiarity with CI/CD tools and practices in embedded environments.
  • Ability to manage multiple priorities and work independently in a fast-paced environment.
$113,000 - $136,000 a year
CesiumAstro considers several factors when extending an offer, including but not limited to, the role and associated responsibilities, a candidate's work experience, education/training, and key skills.  Full-time employment offers include company stock options and a generous benefits package including health, dental, vision, HSA, FSA, life, disability and retirement plans.  
 
CesiumAstro is an Equal Opportunity employer.  All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, protected Veteran Status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.
 
Please note: CesiumAstro does not accept unsolicited resumes from contract agencies or search firms. Any unsolicited resumes submitted to our website or to CesiumAstro team members will be considered property of CesiumAstro, and we will not be obligated to pay any referral fees.
We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses and identifying potential inconsistencies or verification signals in application materials based on available information. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.
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