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Principal Embedded Software Engineer Jobs in Detroit, MI

Embedded Software Engineer

Warren, MI · On-site

$123K - $162K/yr

Develop best in class embedded software using C/C++, Java and QNX/Linux * Deploy and maintain the software for future enhancements * Work with GM business leads and engineering specialists to ...

Embedded Software Engineer

Dearborn, MI · On-site +1

$90K - $188K/yr

Embedded Software Engineer - positions offered by Ford Motor Company (Dearborn, Michigan). Note, this is a hybrid position whereby the employee will work both from home and from the anticipated ...

Embedded Control Software Engineer

Allen Park, MI · On-site

$119K - $157K/yr

Stefanini is looking for an Embedded Control Software Engineer, Allen Park, MI For quick apply, please reach out to Saurabh Kapoor at / As an Embedded Controls Software Engineer, you will be a ...

Embedded Software Engineer

Dearborn, MI · On-site

$102K - $192K/yr

Embedded Software Engineer - positions offered by Ford Motor Company (Dearborn, Michigan). Note, this is a hybrid position whereby the employee will work both from home and from the aforementioned ...

Embedded Software Engineer

Ann Arbor, MI · On-site

$128K - $169K/yr

... engineering, product, and global partners to design and implement software solutions for the Arene ... embedded firmware for real-time and Linux-based automotive systems. ● Implement and enhance ...

Showing results 21-40

Principal Embedded Software Engineer information

See Detroit, MI salary details

$119.3K

$160.7K

$185.6K

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

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for principal embedded software engineer in Detroit, MI is $160,730.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $149,500.00 and $174,200.00 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?

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 Detroit, MI look for? The top searched job categories for Principal Embedded Software Engineer jobs in Detroit, MI are:
Infographic showing various Principal Embedded Software Engineer job openings in Detroit, MI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Internship, 74% Full Time, and 24% Contract. Highlights an 94% In-person, 4% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $160,730 per year, or $77.3 per hour.

Embedded Software Engineer

PSG Global Solutions

Warren, MI • On-site

$123K - $162K/yr

Contractor

Re-posted 9 days ago


Job description

Company Description

CDI Corporation is a multinational company providing engineering, information technology and staffing services to clients in a range of industries including energy, chemical, aerospace, defense, transportation and financial services.

Job Description

Job Responsibilities:

  • Develop best in class embedded software using C/C++, Java and QNX/Linux
  • Deploy and maintain the software for future enhancements 
  • Work with GM business leads and engineering specialists to identify, capture and refine system requirements. 
  • Provide robust and elegant software solutions
  • Facilitate internal developers or third party companies to develop, integrate, and test software deliveries using embedded diagnostic and development tools.
  • Coordinate and participate in architecture, requirements, code, and test case reviews.  
  • Work closely with other team leads to support triage and resolution of difficult system problems in a timely manner 
  • Interact with internal customers, vendors and external organizations to refine understanding of requirements and identify opportunities for innovation 
  • Work with program management and Product Owners to define sprints and releases.
Qualifications

Experience doing development in embedded development, i.e. in constrained environment

Good knowledge of QNX operating system

Good understanding of interprocess communication in QNX

Solid understanding of Linux operating system

C, C++

Linux Curl functions, LibCurl

Linux Command Library

Good understanding of the HTTP & FTP protocols

Knowledge of Transport Layer Security (TLS)

Knowledge of Singleton in C, C++

Knowledge of STL containers for C++

Gdb (gnu debugger)

Messaging, ZeroMQ

OMA-DM, FUMO, preferred, not a requirement

Scripting languages - Groovy, Python

Unit testing

Knowledge of C Unit and CPP Unit for unit testing

Experience with State machines implementation

Experience using Certicom libraries for implementing TLS

GOF Design patterns

Good understanding of data structures

Eclipse IDE

Preferable to have knowledge of CAN vehicle networking, not required though

Experience working with VM's

Experience

Likely experience designing 1+ products

Likely 2+ years of experience

  • I
  • ntermediate regarding skill mastery

    Additional Information

    Szarlene Culannay | Technical Recruiter

    CDI Corporation

    500 Northridge Road, Suite 240

    Ph: 513-898-0191