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Volunteer Embedded Systems Engineer Jobs in Reading, MA

Sr Embedded Software Engineer

Boston, MA · On-site

$143K - $188K/yr

The Job's Responsibilities • Design and develop Android applications for embedded systems ... This will include microcontrollers, DSPs, and FPGAs. • Collaborate with hardware engineers to ...

Senior Systems Engineer

Framingham, MA

$107K - $147K/yr

Experience in consumer audio, automotive audio, wearables, or other complex embedded product ... Experience using model-based systems engineering (MBSE) approaches to support architecture ...

Senior Systems Engineer

Framingham, MA · On-site

$107K - $147K/yr

Experience in consumer audio, automotive audio, wearables, or other complex embedded product ... Experience using model-based systems engineering (MBSE) approaches to support architecture ...

Showing results 41-60

Volunteer Embedded Systems Engineer information

See Reading, MA salary details

$65.9K

$144.8K

$202.6K

How much do volunteer embedded systems engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average yearly pay for volunteer embedded systems engineer in Reading, MA is $144,850.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $117,700.00 and $172,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a volunteer embedded systems engineer?

Volunteer Embedded Systems Engineers are individuals who offer their expertise in designing, developing, and maintaining embedded systems—such as microcontroller-based hardware or firmware—without monetary compensation. They typically work with nonprofits, educational institutions, or community projects, helping to create or improve electronic devices and systems for social good. Their work can range from programming microcontrollers to designing circuit boards, often collaborating with other volunteers or professionals. Volunteering in this field is a great way to gain experience, contribute to meaningful projects, and support communities in need.

How do volunteer embedded systems engineers typically collaborate with other team members during a project?

Volunteer Embedded Systems Engineers often work closely with multidisciplinary teams, including hardware designers, software developers, and project coordinators. Collaboration usually involves regular meetings to discuss technical requirements, progress updates, and integration challenges. Since many volunteer projects are remote or have limited resources, effective communication and documentation are key to ensuring that all team members are aligned and project milestones are met. Team members may use collaboration tools like version control systems, shared documentation platforms, and virtual meeting software to stay connected and productive.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a volunteer embedded systems engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Volunteer Embedded Systems Engineer, you need a solid understanding of electronics, microcontrollers, and programming languages such as C/C++, typically supported by a degree in electrical engineering or related experience. Familiarity with tools like oscilloscopes, logic analyzers, and development environments (e.g., Arduino IDE, Keil, or MPLAB) is often required. Strong problem-solving skills, teamwork, and effective communication help you collaborate across diverse volunteer teams and overcome technical challenges. These competencies ensure you can design reliable embedded solutions, contribute effectively to projects, and support organizational missions.

What is the difference between Volunteer Embedded Systems Engineer vs Embedded Systems Engineer?

AspectVolunteer Embedded Systems EngineerEmbedded Systems Engineer
CredentialsTypically requires relevant technical skills, certifications are optionalOften requires a degree or certification in electrical engineering or computer science
Work EnvironmentNon-profit, humanitarian, or open-source projects, often remote or flexibleCorporate, industrial, or product development settings, usually full-time
Employer & IndustryNon-profit organizations, NGOs, open-source communitiesTechnology companies, manufacturing, automotive, aerospace

Volunteer Embedded Systems Engineers focus on contributing to projects for social good or open-source initiatives, often on a part-time or voluntary basis. Embedded Systems Engineers typically work in commercial settings, developing products or systems as part of their professional career. The main differences lie in the work environment, employment status, and project goals.

What are the most commonly searched types of Embedded Systems Engineer jobs in Reading, MA?

The most popular types of Embedded Systems Engineer jobs in Reading, MA are:

What are popular job titles related to Volunteer Embedded Systems Engineer jobs in Reading, MA?

For Volunteer Embedded Systems Engineer jobs in Reading, MA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Volunteer Embedded Systems Engineer jobs in Reading, MA look for?

The top searched job categories for Volunteer Embedded Systems Engineer jobs in Reading, MA are:

What cities near Reading, MA are hiring for Volunteer Embedded Systems Engineer jobs?

Cities near Reading, MA with the most Volunteer Embedded Systems Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Volunteer Embedded Systems Engineer job openings in Reading, MA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 10% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $144,850 per year, or $69.6 per hour.

Distinguished Systems Engineer for Embedded Microsystems Architecture and Design

Draper

Cambridge, MA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 10 days ago


Job description

Overview:
Draper is an independent, nonprofit research and development company headquartered in Cambridge, MA. The 2,000+ employees of Draper tackle important national challenges with a promise of delivering successful and usable solutions. From military defense and space exploration to biomedical engineering, lives often depend on the solutions we provide. Our multidisciplinary teams of engineers and scientists work in a collaborative environment that inspires the cross-fertilization of ideas necessary for true innovation. For more information about Draper, visit www.draper.com.
Job Description Summary:
The Embedded Microsystems and Sensors Group at Draper is seeking a Principal Systems Engineer to develop and manage requirements, architecture, interface documentation, and system specifications for systems in mission domains such as: embedded secure communications, advanced electronics miniaturization, edge processing and computing, trustworthy secure platforms, and autonomous air/sea vehicles.
This role will involve working across a multi-disciplinary team (including external and internal stakeholders) innovating new microelectronics system solutions over the full system development lifecycle.
The group has multidisciplinary proficiencies in secure systems architecture, hardware security and resilience, software security and resilience, system validation and accreditation, sensor development and validation, and cryptography.
Job Description:
Duties/Responsibilities
• Independently drive solutions to complex, multidisciplinary problems with a deep understanding of a customer's strategic priorities.
• Capable of helping customers shape their needs and develop requirements for programs that solve their most challenging technical problems.
• Demonstrated ability to lead large multidisciplinary teams (greater than 10 people). Aligns team towards program goals and builds trust within the team.
• Subject Matter Expert (SME) in Systems Engineering.
• Contributes to advancing State of the Art (SOA) solutions and techniques in their field
• Able to analyze Draper strategy and work with management to build capability in key areas to help sustain business growth.
• Identifies risks common among multiple programs/technology areas/etc. and develops and executes mitigation strategies for them.
• Works to improve operations at the enterprise level. Identifies areas for improvement within the organization and uses positive collaboration practices to achieve change.
• Actively mentors and seeks opportunities to build depth for their area of expertise. Recognizes strengths and weaknesses in others and gives thoughtful, constructive feedback.
• Performs other duties as assigned.
Skills/Abilities
• Highly-organized, capable of approaching problems with a system-level perspective.
• Strong oral and written communication skills.
• Practical experience with simulation-based performance analysis.
• Practical experience with the systems engineering process.
• Roles may require proficiency with modeling and simulation, computer language coding, descriptive modeling (e.g. SysML), STPA, and/or other engineering analysis tools
• Knowledge of GN&C, avionics architectures, fault tolerance, cyber/security, comms/encryption, threat modeling or other technologies may be required as defined in the summary.
Education
Bachelor's degree in engineering, physics, mathematics, or related field. Masters degree or higher preferred.
Experience
10-15+ years experience as systems engineer or related role.
Additional Job Description:
A successful candidate will be motivated to build deeper expertise in both the core mission domains and underlying microsystems technology. This position will provide exposure to a wide range of advanced technologies (including inertial sensors, imagers, precision electronics, and advanced algorithms) as well as provide growth opportunities in the development of capabilities to address challenges in national security. Additionally, a successful candidate will be able to seamlessly join project teams that collaborate by sharing thoughts and opinions of individuals from a diverse set of experience and viewpoints in order to create the best possible technical solution.
  • Experience maintaining traceability between requirements and system architecture & design work products
  • Technical depth in fields relevant to electronics development, embedded systems, embedded software, or packaging miniaturization such as:
    • Possess a broad understanding of microprocessors, Field Programmable Gate Arrays (FPGAs), Application Specific Integrated Circuits (ASICs), and real-time software & firmware needed to enable solutions.
    • Have experience with serial digital data interfaces (e.g. SPI, RS422, Ethernet) used to interconnect distributed and modular avionics.
    • Understand power electronics, A/D, D/A, clock and timing electronics that support and interface with the digital electronics.
  • Be able to work with thermal analysis and reliability experts in developing solutions.
  • Expertise in full life-cycle systems engineering (architecture, design, development, integration, approval, and deployment) of security technologies and components within cyber-physical systems and systems-of-systems
  • Strong presentation skills and the ability to articulate complex technical ideas to both internal and external stakeholders
  • Strong set of interpersonal and communication skills with demonstrated experience of fostering a culture of inclusion in the workplace
  • Experience in the development of System Security documentation per Government requirements
  • Experience planning and leading Systems Engineering Technical Reviews
  • Experience working with modern data bus / electrical interfaces for flight/space systems
  • Experience in writing innovative R&D proposals to commercial and government sponsors
  • An understanding of the fundamentals of cryptographic key management, public key infrastructure, and NSA's Key Management Infrastructure, and the applications of cryptology
  • Be familiar with the unique aspects of space avionics: environmental testing (MIL-STD-810), radiation hardening, and EMI/EMC considerations (MIL-STD-461).

Applicants selected for this opportunity will be required to obtain and maintain a government security clearance.
Secret Clearance is preferred.
Connect With Draper for Future Opportunities! If you don't find the right posting in our Career Opportunities, you may submit your resume for future consideration.
Job Location - City:
Cambridge
Job Location - State:
Massachusetts
Job Location - Postal Code:
02139-3563
The US base salary range for this full-time position is
$100,000.00 - $275,000.00
Our salary ranges are determined by role, level, and location. The range displayed on each job posting reflects the minimum and maximum target salaries for the position across all US locations. Within the range, individual pay is determined by work location and additional factors, including job-related skills, experience, and relevant education or training. Union ranges will be in compliance with the collective bargaining agreement's approved rates by location and role. Your recruiter can share more about the specific salary range for your preferred location during the hiring process. Please note that the compensation details listed in US role postings reflect the base salary only, and does not include bonuses or benefits.
Our work is very important to us, but so is our life outside of work. Draper supports many programs to improve work-life balance including workplace flexibility, employee clubs ranging from photography to yoga, health and finance workshops, off site social events and discounts to local museums and cultural activities. If this specific job opportunity and the chance to work at a nationally renowned R&D innovation company appeals to you, apply now www.draper.com/careers.
Draper is committed to creating an inclusive environment. We understand the value of inclusivity and its impact on a high-performance culture. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, disability, age, sexual orientation, national origin, veteran status, or genetic information. Draper is committed to providing access, equal opportunity, and reasonable accommodation for individuals with disabilities in employment, its services, programs, and activities. To request reasonable accommodation, please contact hr@draper.com.