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The differences between embedded software developers and 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 software developer takes usually requires 2-4 years. Additionally, an embedded software developer has an average salary of $89,506, which is higher than the $87,521 average annual salary of a software developer.
The top three skills for an embedded software developer include python, software development and linux. The most important skills for a software developer are java, python, and C++.
| Embedded Software Developer | Software Developer | |
| Yearly salary | $89,506 | $87,521 |
| Hourly rate | $43.03 | $42.08 |
| Growth rate | 21% | 21% |
| Number of jobs | 257,508 | 294,329 |
| 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 developer is responsible for designing application systems to support the user and business' needs. Duties of a software developer include testing software codes, performing diagnostic programs and troubleshooting, interpreting system data and establishing efficient parameters, and ensuring the compatibility of the systems. A software developer must have an excellent knowledge of computer programs and programming languages to understand its complexities, especially on detecting system defects and malfunctions. A software developer must have strong attention to detail, communication, and decision-making skills to coordinate with the team and also work independently under minimal supervision.
Embedded software developers and software developers have different pay scales, as shown below.
| Embedded Software Developer | Software Developer | |
| Average salary | $89,506 | $87,521 |
| Salary range | Between $68,000 And $117,000 | Between $67,000 And $113,000 |
| Highest paying City | Mountain View, CA | San Francisco, CA |
| Highest paying state | California | California |
| Best paying company | Apple | The Citadel |
| Best paying industry | Automotive | Finance |
There are a few differences between an embedded software developer and a software developer in terms of educational background:
| Embedded Software Developer | Software Developer | |
| 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 developers' demographics:
| Embedded Software Developer | Software Developer | |
| Average age | 39 | 39 |
| Gender ratio | Male, 89.3% Female, 10.7% | Male, 79.3% Female, 20.7% |
| 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, 52.5% American Indian and Alaska Native, 0.2% |
| LGBT Percentage | 8% | 8% |