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The differences between embedded software developers and lead software 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 a lead software developer takes usually requires 2-4 years. Additionally, a lead software developer has an average salary of $115,072, which is higher than the $89,506 average annual salary of an embedded software developer.
The top three skills for an embedded software developer include python, software development and linux. The most important skills for a lead software developer are java, architecture, and application development.
| Embedded Software Developer | Lead Software Developer | |
| Yearly salary | $89,506 | $115,072 |
| Hourly rate | $43.03 | $55.32 |
| Growth rate | 21% | 21% |
| Number of jobs | 257,508 | 309,029 |
| Job satisfaction | - | - |
| Most common degree | Bachelor's Degree, 66% | Bachelor's Degree, 68% |
| 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.
A lead software developer is responsible for creating and designing software applications and systems to support business functions and client requirements. Lead software developers analyze specifications to build efficient applications, conduct multiple quality testing, and enhance the user's interface. They also coordinate with the design engineers to modify and improve the features of existing software applications for optimal performance. A lead software developer must have excellent communication and technical skills, especially in considering the current technology trends to meet demands.
Embedded software developers and lead software developers have different pay scales, as shown below.
| Embedded Software Developer | Lead Software Developer | |
| Average salary | $89,506 | $115,072 |
| Salary range | Between $68,000 And $117,000 | Between $87,000 And $151,000 |
| Highest paying City | Mountain View, CA | San Francisco, CA |
| Highest paying state | California | California |
| Best paying company | Apple | Microsoft |
| Best paying industry | Automotive | Manufacturing |
There are a few differences between an embedded software developer and a lead software developer in terms of educational background:
| Embedded Software Developer | Lead Software Developer | |
| Most common degree | Bachelor's Degree, 66% | Bachelor's Degree, 68% |
| Most common major | Electrical Engineering | Computer Science |
| Most common college | Harvard University | Harvard University |
Here are the differences between embedded software developers' and lead software developers' demographics:
| Embedded Software Developer | Lead Software Developer | |
| Average age | 39 | 39 |
| Gender ratio | Male, 89.3% Female, 10.7% | Male, 86.5% Female, 13.5% |
| 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, 4.3% Unknown, 4.8% Hispanic or Latino, 8.1% Asian, 30.0% White, 52.6% American Indian and Alaska Native, 0.2% |
| LGBT Percentage | 8% | 8% |