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The differences between embedded software developers and software systems 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 systems engineer takes usually requires 2-4 years. Additionally, a software systems engineer has an average salary of $107,102, 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 systems engineer are java, python, and software development.
| Embedded Software Developer | Software Systems Engineer | |
| Yearly salary | $89,506 | $107,102 |
| Hourly rate | $43.03 | $51.49 |
| Growth rate | 21% | 21% |
| Number of jobs | 257,508 | 370,518 |
| Job satisfaction | - | - |
| Most common degree | Bachelor's Degree, 66% | Bachelor's Degree, 73% |
| 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 systems engineer is responsible for designing and creating software systems applications and programs according to clients' specifications or business' needs. They work to improve the features of existing applications to boost efficiency and optimal performance. Software systems engineers manage systems configuration and structural development to develop high-quality outputs and deliverables. They also run multiple diagnostic tests to ensure smooth navigations and server transitions and identify efficient technical solutions. A software systems engineer assists the end-users with application issues, performing troubleshooting operations, and creating resolution reports for reference.
Embedded software developers and software systems engineers have different pay scales, as shown below.
| Embedded Software Developer | Software Systems Engineer | |
| Average salary | $89,506 | $107,102 |
| Salary range | Between $68,000 And $117,000 | Between $80,000 And $142,000 |
| Highest paying City | Mountain View, CA | San Francisco, CA |
| Highest paying state | California | California |
| Best paying company | Apple | Meta |
| Best paying industry | Automotive | Start-up |
There are a few differences between an embedded software developer and a software systems engineer in terms of educational background:
| Embedded Software Developer | Software Systems Engineer | |
| Most common degree | Bachelor's Degree, 66% | Bachelor's Degree, 73% |
| Most common major | Electrical Engineering | Computer Science |
| Most common college | Harvard University | Harvard University |
Here are the differences between embedded software developers' and software systems engineers' demographics:
| Embedded Software Developer | Software Systems Engineer | |
| Average age | 39 | 39 |
| Gender ratio | Male, 89.3% Female, 10.7% | Male, 81.1% Female, 18.9% |
| 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, 4.6% Unknown, 4.8% Hispanic or Latino, 8.3% Asian, 29.8% White, 52.3% American Indian and Alaska Native, 0.2% |
| LGBT Percentage | 8% | 8% |