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Real Time Software Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Learn more at We are searching for the best talent for our Software Engineer, Real-time Software position. This position will be located in Santa Clara, CA Purpose: You will be developing software ...

Our Principal Embedded Real-Time Software Developer/Integrator is a technical position that works in an Integrated Product Team (IPT) environment to architect, design, implement, test, debug, and ...

Our Principal Embedded Real-Time Software Developer/Integrator is a technical position that works in an Integrated Product Team (IPT) environment to architect, design, implement, test, debug, and ...

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Real Time Software Engineer information

See California salary details

$62.7K

$145.6K

$202.8K

How much do real time software engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average yearly pay for real time software engineer in California is $145,592.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $118,400.00 and $170,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a real time software engineer?

A Real Time Software Engineer develops software that must operate within strict timing constraints, often for systems that require immediate or predictable responses. These engineers work on applications such as embedded systems, robotics, aerospace, automotive, and telecommunications. They design, code, and optimize software to ensure low-latency performance, reliability, and synchronization with real-world events. Their role often involves working with real-time operating systems (RTOS), programming in languages like C or C++, and debugging performance issues.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a real time software engineer?

To thrive as a Real Time Software Engineer, you need strong programming skills in languages such as C or C++, a solid understanding of real-time operating systems (RTOS), and a degree in computer science, electrical engineering, or a related field. Familiarity with development tools like debuggers, oscilloscopes, version control systems, and certifications such as Embedded Systems Certification can be highly beneficial. Excellent problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective teamwork and communication skills help you excel in fast-paced project environments. These skills ensure robust, efficient, and timely software solutions for mission-critical systems across industries such as aerospace, automotive, and telecommunications.

What are some typical challenges faced by real time software engineers in their daily work?

Real Time Software Engineers often face the challenge of ensuring that their code meets strict timing and reliability requirements, as even minor delays can cause critical failures in real-time systems. Debugging and testing can be complex, especially when working with hardware integration and low-level system interactions. Engineers in this role frequently collaborate with hardware engineers and cross-functional teams to troubleshoot issues and optimize performance. Staying current with rapidly evolving technologies and best practices is also essential for ongoing success and career advancement in this dynamic field.

What job categories do people searching Real Time Software Engineer jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Real Time Software Engineer jobs in California are:

Infographic showing various Real Time Software Engineer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 67% In-person, and 33% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $145,592 per year, or $70 per hour.

Real-Time Software Engineer

El Segundo, CA • On-site


Booz Allen Hamilton
IT Services • 10K+ employees

8.9

Company rating: 8.9 out of 10

Based on 49 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

10th of 72 rated business consultants

People enjoy working here

Good employer

Recommended by students


$86K - $198K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 5 days ago


Job description

Real-Time Software Engineer

The Opportunity:

Are you excited to apply RF theory to critical national security missions? Your expertise in RF digital signal processing software development will be critical to integrate, test, and evaluate RF software applications. Apply core principles, theories, and concepts to provide effective solutions for practical applications. Solve complex technical problems and deliver innovative solutions. Operate with substantial independence and provide oversight or mentorship for your team's technical competencies. Collaborate effectively with minimal supervision, overseeing and mentoring junior employees as needed.

This is a hands-on engineering role focused on real-time software, including embedded systems, distributed systems, and hardware-software integration. You will work across software applications for RF applications which require and understanding of embedded software, firmware, distributed software, and machine learning to successfully execute. You will be debugging at every layer, from software behavior to system-level interactions in deployed hardware.

Join us. The world can't wait.

You Have:

  • 6+ years of experience with software development languages, including Python, C, or C++

  • Experience with the design, development, and testing of real-time software

  • Experience with microservice architectures and tools such as Kubernetes or Docker, and optimizing applications for distributed environments

  • Experience using Agile processes and tools, including Jira or Confluence, and using version control, including GitHub

  • Experience developing software and firmware for embedded systems, such as SCPI, Ethernet, and Serial integration

  • Ability to work in a team environment to brainstorm and innovate new ideas

  • Ability to obtain a TS/SCI clearance

  • Bachelor's degree in a STEM field

Nice If You Have:

  • Experience leading and managing small to medium-sized engineering, integration, and testing projects

  • Experience using Windows and Linux systems; experience porting software from Windows to Linux, including compiling and cross-compiling libraries as needed

  • Experience with UI development, including Javascript, Rust, Angular, React

  • Experience with machine learning packages and building and testing neural network architectures using TensorFlow, Keras, or PyTorch

  • Experience with firmware development languages such as VHDL, Verilog, or CoreFire

  • Experience with RF theory, software defined radios, Low noise amplifiers

  • TS/SCI clearance

  • Master's degree in a STEM field

Clearance:

Applicants selected will be subject to a security investigation and may need to meet eligibility requirements for access to classified information.

Skills Assessment As part of Booz Allen's skills first hiring process, candidates must complete the required skills assessment to ensure they meet the Basic Qualifications for this role. Candidates must complete the assessment and meet the minimum proficiency threshold to continue in the hiring process.

Compensation

At Booz Allen, we celebrate your contributions, provide you with opportunities and choices, and support your total well-being. Our offerings include health, life, disability, financial, and retirement benefits, as well as paid leave, professional development, tuition assistance, work-life programs, and dependent care. Our recognition awards program acknowledges employees for exceptional performance and superior demonstration of our values. Full-time and part-time employees working at least 20 hours a week on a regular basis are eligible to participate in Booz Allen's benefit programs. Individuals that do not meet the threshold are only eligible for select offerings, not inclusive of health benefits. We encourage you to learn more about our total benefits by visiting the Resource page on our Careers site and reviewing Our Employee Benefits page.

Salary at Booz Allen is determined by various factors, including but not limited to location, the individual's particular combination of education, knowledge, skills, competencies, and experience, as well as contract-specific affordability and organizational requirements. The projected compensation range for this position is $86,800.00 to $198,000.00 (annualized USD). The estimate displayed represents the typical salary range for this position and is just one component of Booz Allen's total compensation package for employees. This posting will close within 90 days from the Posting Date.

Identity Statement

As part of the hiring process, we will ask you to complete an identity verification process that leverages advanced biometrics and artificial intelligence to ensure authenticity and protect against identity fraud. You are expected to be on camera during interviews and assessments. We reserve the right to take your picture to verify your identity and prevent fraud.

Candidate AI Usage Policy

AI is a part of our daily work at Booz Allen, and we are committed to the responsible and ethical use of AI tools. However, we want to ensure a fair candidate process based on your own skills and knowledge. As part of this commitment, the use of artificial intelligence (AI) or other tools to assist with responses during interviews (whether in-person or virtual) is prohibited unless permission is explicitly provided.

Work Model
Our people-first culture prioritizes the benefits of collaboration, whether it occurs in person or virtually. To support engagement and effective communication, employees working virtually are generally expected to have their cameras on during meetings.

  • Remote: If this position is listed as remote, there may still be occasions when you are required to work in person at a Booz Allen or customer facility.

  • Hybrid: If this position is listed as hybrid, you will be expected to work from a Booz Allen facility frequently, in alignment with leadership expectations and the needs of the role. You may also be required to work from or visit a customer facility.

  • Onsite: If this position is listed as onsite, work will primarily be performed at a Booz Allen office or customer facility, where employees will collaborate directly with colleagues and customers as required by the role.

Commitment to Non-Discrimination

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to disability, status as a protected veteran or any other status protected by applicable federal, state, local, or international law.


Booz Allen Hamilton logo

About Booz Allen Hamilton

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Booz Allen Hamilton is a leading provider of management and technology consulting services to the US government in defense, intelligence, and civil markets. Headquartered in McLean, Virginia, the firm also serves major corporations, institutions, and not-for-profit organizations. Founded in 1914 by Edwin G. Booz, the company has a long-standing tradition of helping clients achieve success by delivering a wide range of consulting services that include strategic planning, human capital and learning, communication, systems development, and others. The company's mission is to empower people to change the world, and it has a reputation for maintaining the highest standards of integrity and-excellence.

Industry

It services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

McLean, VA, US

Year founded

1914


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Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

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