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The differences between embedded software developers and applications developers can be seen in a few details. Each job has different responsibilities and duties. While it typically takes 1-2 years to become an embedded software developer, becoming an applications developer takes usually requires 2-4 years. Additionally, an embedded software developer has an average salary of $89,506, which is higher than the $89,205 average annual salary of an applications developer.
The top three skills for an embedded software developer include python, software development and linux. The most important skills for an applications developer are java, javascript, and C++.
| Embedded Software Developer | Applications Developer | |
| Yearly salary | $89,506 | $89,205 |
| Hourly rate | $43.03 | $42.89 |
| Growth rate | 21% | 21% |
| Number of jobs | 257,508 | 279,877 |
| Job satisfaction | - | - |
| Most common degree | Bachelor's Degree, 66% | Bachelor's Degree, 71% |
| Average age | 39 | 39 |
| Years of experience | 2 | 4 |
An embedded software developer designs and develops software embedded into systems and devices. They are primarily in charge of writing codes that implement systems and solutions, ensuring the embedded software adheres to project goals and requirements. They also develop test structures to find and improve weaknesses, troubleshoot issues, monitor systems, and perform regular maintenance checks. Most embedded software developers work in a team setting, which requires an active communication line for a smooth and efficient workflow.
An application developer is responsible for creating program applications for devices based on clients' specifications and business needs. Application developers must have excellent knowledge of computer systems, as well as a strong command of programming languages to develop customized programs. Duties of an application developer also include running diagnostic tests to ensure the application's performance and stability, providing instruction manuals for reference, performing troubleshooting for any inconsistencies, upgrading design codes for optimization, and launching the application following the client's timetable.
Embedded software developers and applications developers have different pay scales, as shown below.
| Embedded Software Developer | Applications Developer | |
| Average salary | $89,506 | $89,205 |
| Salary range | Between $68,000 And $117,000 | Between $67,000 And $118,000 |
| Highest paying City | Mountain View, CA | San Francisco, CA |
| Highest paying state | California | Washington |
| Best paying company | Apple | Meta |
| Best paying industry | Automotive | Finance |
There are a few differences between an embedded software developer and an applications developer in terms of educational background:
| Embedded Software Developer | Applications Developer | |
| Most common degree | Bachelor's Degree, 66% | Bachelor's Degree, 71% |
| Most common major | Electrical Engineering | Computer Science |
| Most common college | Harvard University | Massachusetts Institute of Technology |
Here are the differences between embedded software developers' and applications developers' demographics:
| Embedded Software Developer | Applications Developer | |
| Average age | 39 | 39 |
| Gender ratio | Male, 89.3% Female, 10.7% | Male, 77.0% Female, 23.0% |
| Race ratio | Black or African American, 4.7% Unknown, 4.9% Hispanic or Latino, 8.4% Asian, 31.0% White, 50.8% American Indian and Alaska Native, 0.2% | Black or African American, 4.4% Unknown, 4.8% Hispanic or Latino, 8.2% Asian, 29.9% White, 52.5% American Indian and Alaska Native, 0.2% |
| LGBT Percentage | 8% | 8% |