1

Principal Embedded Software Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

As a Principal Embedded Software Engineer, you will be part of a growing team that writes applications using C/C++ and Python code that executes in electronic systems on boats for interfacing with ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Principal Embedded Software Engineer information

See salary details

$120.5K

$162.4K

$187.5K

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.
More about Principal Embedded Software Engineer jobs
What cities are hiring for Principal Embedded Software Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Principal Embedded Software Engineer job openings:
Who are the top companies hiring for Principal Embedded Software Engineer jobs? The top employers for Principal Embedded Software Engineer jobs are:
What states have the most Principal Embedded Software Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Principal Embedded Software Engineer jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Principal Embedded Software Engineer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Principal Embedded Software Engineer jobs are:
Principal Embedded Software Engineer II

Principal Embedded Software Engineer II

CesiumAstro

Westminster, CO • On-site

Full-time

Posted 25 days ago


Job description

Job Summary:
CesiumAstro is a developer of advanced communication systems for satellites and airborne platforms, seeking a Principal Embedded Software Engineer II to join their software team. The role involves designing and implementing software for embedded devices, overseeing the development process from concept to production, and providing customer support post-production.
Responsibilities:
• Design and implement software for embedded devices and systems, from requirements to production and commercial deployment.
• Design, develop, code, test, debug and document system software.
• Review code and system designs.
• Analyze code for efficiency, stability and scalability.
• Integrate and validate new product designs.
• Support software quality assurance and optimize I/O performance.
• Provide post-production/in-orbit customer support.
• Interface with hardware design and development engineers.
• Assess third party and open source software.
Qualifications:
Required:
• U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S., conditional resident, asylee or refugee, or eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State.
• Bachelor of Science (BS) or Master of Science (MS) degree in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or Computer Engineering.
• Minimum of 11 years of industry experience in software development.
• Experience in hands-on development and troubleshooting of embedded hardware.
• API design for interfacing with FPGAs.
• Extensive programming experience in C and an object oriented programming language, preferably C++.
• Experience in embedded systems design with preemptive, multitasking real-time operating systems.
• Familiarity with software configuration management tools, defect tracking tools, and peer review.
• Excellent knowledge of real-time system coding techniques, IP protocols, interfaces, and hardware subsystems.
• Excellent understanding of multi-threaded applications and resource management.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
Preferred:
• Experience with products for aerospace applications.
• Adequate knowledge of reading electronics schematics and component data sheets.
• Experience with ARM processors and fully-featured microcontrollers.
• Experience in design and development of a Software Development Kit (SDK).
Company:
CesiumAstro provides out-of-the-box communication systems for satellites, UAVs, launch vehicles, and other space or airborne platforms. Founded in 2017, the company is headquartered in Austin, USA, with a team of 501-1000 employees. The company is currently Growth Stage.