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The differences between embedded software developers and software design engineers 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 software design engineer takes usually requires 2-4 years. Additionally, a software design engineer has an average salary of $98,799, 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 software design engineer are software development, python, and software design.
| Embedded Software Developer | Software Design Engineer | |
| Yearly salary | $89,506 | $98,799 |
| Hourly rate | $43.03 | $47.50 |
| Growth rate | 21% | 21% |
| Number of jobs | 257,508 | 315,080 |
| Job satisfaction | - | - |
| Most common degree | Bachelor's Degree, 66% | Bachelor's Degree, 72% |
| 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 software design engineer or SDE is part of a software development enterprise. Software design engineers determine the problems or issues and figure out how to establish programs to ease and automate the situations. They fabricate style sheets for the management of the individual aspects of huge engineering projects. It is their job to develop strategies for hardware architecture and software engineering. They also handle and mentor engineering interns for professional guidance.
Embedded software developers and software design engineers have different pay scales, as shown below.
| Embedded Software Developer | Software Design Engineer | |
| Average salary | $89,506 | $98,799 |
| Salary range | Between $68,000 And $117,000 | Between $74,000 And $130,000 |
| Highest paying City | Mountain View, CA | San Francisco, CA |
| Highest paying state | California | California |
| Best paying company | Apple | Apple |
| Best paying industry | Automotive | Technology |
There are a few differences between an embedded software developer and a software design engineer in terms of educational background:
| Embedded Software Developer | Software Design Engineer | |
| Most common degree | Bachelor's Degree, 66% | Bachelor's Degree, 72% |
| Most common major | Electrical Engineering | Computer Science |
| Most common college | Harvard University | Harvard University |
Here are the differences between embedded software developers' and software design engineers' demographics:
| Embedded Software Developer | Software Design Engineer | |
| Average age | 39 | 39 |
| Gender ratio | Male, 89.3% Female, 10.7% | Male, 81.6% Female, 18.4% |
| 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, 4.5% Unknown, 4.8% Hispanic or Latino, 8.2% Asian, 29.9% White, 52.4% American Indian and Alaska Native, 0.2% |
| LGBT Percentage | 8% | 8% |