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Principal Embedded Software Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

CFS

Embedded Software Engineer

Fort Wayne, IN · Hybrid

$150K - $175K/yr

Principal Embedded Software Engineer Salary: $150,000 - $175,000 We're seeking a Lead/Principal Embedded Software Engineer to take technical ownership of embedded software programs in a fast‑moving ...

CFS

Embedded Software Engineer

Fort Wayne, IN · Hybrid

$150K - $175K/yr

Principal Embedded Software Engineer Salary: $150,000 - $175,000 We're seeking a Lead/Principal Embedded Software Engineer to take technical ownership of embedded software programs in a fast‑moving ...

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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 the United States is $162,359.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $151,000.00 and $176,000.00 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

Raytheon Technologies

Columbia, MD • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 22 days ago

Job description

Date Posted:
2026-04-21
Country:
United States of America
Location:
US-MD-COLUMBIA-7100 ~ 7100 Columbia Gateway Dr ~ COLUMBIA GATEWAY, Ste 160
Position Role Type:
Onsite
U.S. Citizen, U.S. Person, or Immigration Status Requirements:
The ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. government issued security clearance is required. U.S. citizenship is required, as only U.S. citizens are eligible for a security clearance
Security Clearance Type:
DoD Clearance: Secret
Security Clearance Status:
Active and existing security clearance required after day 1
At Raytheon, the foundation of everything we do is rooted in our values and a higher calling - to help our nation and allies defend freedoms and deter aggression. We bring the strength of more than 100 years of experience and renowned engineering expertise to meet the needs of today's mission and stay ahead of tomorrow's threat. Our team solves tough, meaningful problems that create a safer, more secure world.
Raytheon's Subsystem Engineering and Photonics group is actively seeking a Principal Embedded Software Engineer to join our group in Columbia, MD. The Subsystem Engineering and Photonics Group is a hands-on, multi-disciplinary engineering team that works to design, develop, and fabricate the next generation of RF and photonic systems. The Principal Embedded Software Engineer will be responsible for supporting our design and testing efforts by working with the engineering team to develop and implement firmware solutions in prototype hardware demonstrations.
What You Will Do:
  • Designing, implementing, testing, and debugging integrated embedded real-time software within heterogenous systems composed of firmware and hardware.
  • Collaborate in a multi-discipline team setting to solve complex engineering problems.
  • Perform hands-on integration and troubleshooting of solutions to ensure functionality.
  • Be responsible for significant portions of the embedded code base, becoming the subject matter expert in those areas.
  • Assist the team in elevating our software development practices.
  • Perform and participate in internal and external technical reviews.
  • Independently drive projects and execute to program schedules and budget.
  • Travel up to 10%, with some overnight travel.
  • This 1st shift role will be 100% onsite and based in Columbia, MD.

Qualifications You Must Have:
  • Typically a degree in a Science, Technology, Engineering, or Mathematics (STEM) and a minimum of 8 years of prior relevant experience.
  • Experience in at least 4 of the following categories:
    • Software-defined radio.
    • Signal processing.
    • Real-time embedded software/firmware development.
    • Embedded Linux.
    • ARM processors and system on a chip (SoC) systems.
    • FPGA development using Verilog, VHDL, or high-level synthesis tools.
    • Experience with Python or C programming.
  • The ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. government issued security clearance is required. U.S. citizenship is required, as only U.S. citizens are eligible for a security clearance.

Qualifications We Prefer:
  • Degree in Electrical Engineering highly preferred.
  • Experience in digital signal processing.
  • Experience working with RF or Photonic sensor systems.
  • Experience with embedded processor and System on a Chip development for FPGA devices.
  • Familiarity with the Linux environment and commands.
  • Experience in rapid prototyping and hardware integration.
  • Self-motivated problem solver with a positive attitude and willingness to learn.
  • Self-directed - Able to complete tasks with minimum oversight.
  • Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work in a team environment.

What We Offer:
  • Our values drive our actions, behaviors, and performance with a vision for a safer, more connected world. At RTX we value: Safety, Trust, Respect, Accountability, Collaboration, and Innovation.
  • This position offers relocation based on candidate eligibility.

Learn More & Apply Now
  • Please consider the following role type definition as you apply for this role. Onsite: Employees who are working in Onsite roles will work primarily onsite.
  • Clearance Information: This position requires a security clearance. DCSA Consolidated Adjudication Services (DCSA CAS), an agency of the Department of Defense, handles and adjudicates the security clearance process. More information about Security Clearances can be found on the US Department of State government website here: https://www.state.gov/m/ds/clearances/c10978.htm

As part of our commitment to maintaining a secure hiring process, candidates may be asked to attend select steps of the interview process in-person at one of our office locations, regardless of whether the role is designated as on-site, hybrid or remote.
The salary range for this role is 118,300 USD - 224,900 USD. The salary range provided is a good faith estimate representative of all experience levels. RTX considers several factors when extending an offer, including but not limited to, the role, function and associated responsibilities, a candidate's work experience, location, education/training, and key skills.
Hired applicants may be eligible for benefits, including but not limited to, medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short-term disability, long-term disability, 401(k) match, flexible spending accounts, flexible work schedules, employee assistance program, Employee Scholar Program, parental leave, paid time off, and holidays. Specific benefits are dependent upon the specific business unit as well as whether or not the position is covered by a collective-bargaining agreement.
Hired applicants may be eligible for annual short-term and/or long-term incentive compensation programs depending on the level of the position and whether or not it is covered by a collective-bargaining agreement. Payments under these annual programs are not guaranteed and are dependent upon a variety of factors including, but not limited to, individual performance, business unit performance, and/or the company's performance.
This role is a U.S.-based role. If the successful candidate resides in a U.S. territory, the appropriate pay structure and benefits will apply.
RTX anticipates the application window closing approximately 40 days from the date the notice was posted. However, factors such as candidate flow and business necessity may require RTX to shorten or extend the application window.
RTX is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability or veteran status, or any other applicable state or federal protected class. RTX provides affirmative action in employment for qualified Individuals with a Disability and Protected Veterans in compliance with Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act and the Vietnam Era Veterans' Readjustment Assistance Act.
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