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The differences between embedded software developers and software development 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 development engineer takes usually requires 2-4 years. Additionally, a software development engineer has an average salary of $109,147, 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 development engineer are java, software development, and AWS.
| Embedded Software Developer | Software Development Engineer | |
| Yearly salary | $89,506 | $109,147 |
| Hourly rate | $43.03 | $52.47 |
| Growth rate | 21% | 21% |
| Number of jobs | 257,508 | 356,971 |
| Job satisfaction | - | - |
| Most common degree | Bachelor's Degree, 66% | Bachelor's Degree, 70% |
| 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 development engineer is responsible for designing and developing software systems and applications based on clients' specifications and business needs. Software development engineers manage operating systems and analyze network codes to maintain the compatibility of the software applications and control systems. They also run diagnostic tests for every software structure to ensure smooth navigations and perform immediate troubleshooting for inconsistencies. A software development engineer must have a strong command of programming languages, as well as technological processes and analytical skills.
Embedded software developers and software development engineers have different pay scales, as shown below.
| Embedded Software Developer | Software Development Engineer | |
| Average salary | $89,506 | $109,147 |
| Salary range | Between $68,000 And $117,000 | Between $80,000 And $147,000 |
| Highest paying City | Mountain View, CA | San Francisco, CA |
| Highest paying state | California | California |
| Best paying company | Apple | Meta |
| Best paying industry | Automotive | Technology |
There are a few differences between an embedded software developer and a software development engineer in terms of educational background:
| Embedded Software Developer | Software Development Engineer | |
| Most common degree | Bachelor's Degree, 66% | Bachelor's Degree, 70% |
| Most common major | Electrical Engineering | Computer Science |
| Most common college | Harvard University | Harvard University |
Here are the differences between embedded software developers' and software development engineers' demographics:
| Embedded Software Developer | Software Development Engineer | |
| Average age | 39 | 39 |
| Gender ratio | Male, 89.3% Female, 10.7% | Male, 79.6% Female, 20.4% |
| 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, 4.7% Unknown, 4.9% Hispanic or Latino, 8.4% Asian, 32.7% White, 49.2% American Indian and Alaska Native, 0.2% |
| LGBT Percentage | 8% | 8% |