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The differences between embedded software developers and software programmers 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 programmer takes usually requires 6-8 years. Additionally, an embedded software developer has an average salary of $89,506, which is higher than the $71,612 average annual salary of a software programmer.
The top three skills for an embedded software developer include python, software development and linux. The most important skills for a software programmer are java, javascript, and software development.
| Embedded Software Developer | Software Programmer | |
| Yearly salary | $89,506 | $71,612 |
| Hourly rate | $43.03 | $34.43 |
| Growth rate | 21% | -7% |
| Number of jobs | 257,508 | 253,235 |
| Job satisfaction | - | - |
| Most common degree | Bachelor's Degree, 66% | Bachelor's Degree, 69% |
| Average age | 39 | 47 |
| Years of experience | 2 | 8 |
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 programmer is an information technology expert who specializes in programming software and generating codes, ensuring quality and efficiency. In a company setting, they typically perform research and analysis to understand and identify the projects' needs, develop and implement test structures, troubleshoot and resolve issues, write technical instructions, and provide technical support to staff as needed. Most of the time, a software programmer works in a team setting, which requires an active communication line for a smooth workflow.
Embedded software developers and software programmers have different pay scales, as shown below.
| Embedded Software Developer | Software Programmer | |
| Average salary | $89,506 | $71,612 |
| Salary range | Between $68,000 And $117,000 | Between $55,000 And $92,000 |
| Highest paying City | Mountain View, CA | San Francisco, CA |
| Highest paying state | California | Washington |
| Best paying company | Apple | Panaya |
| Best paying industry | Automotive | Technology |
There are a few differences between an embedded software developer and a software programmer in terms of educational background:
| Embedded Software Developer | Software Programmer | |
| Most common degree | Bachelor's Degree, 66% | Bachelor's Degree, 69% |
| 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 software programmers' demographics:
| Embedded Software Developer | Software Programmer | |
| Average age | 39 | 47 |
| Gender ratio | Male, 89.3% Female, 10.7% | Male, 71.3% Female, 28.7% |
| 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, 4.1% Unknown, 4.4% Hispanic or Latino, 7.2% Asian, 25.2% White, 58.8% American Indian and Alaska Native, 0.2% |
| LGBT Percentage | 8% | 11% |