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The differences between embedded software developers and web application 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 web application developer takes usually requires 2-4 years. Additionally, an embedded software developer has an average salary of $89,506, which is higher than the $85,840 average annual salary of a web application developer.
The top three skills for an embedded software developer include python, software development and linux. The most important skills for a web application developer are javascript, web application, and CSS.
| Embedded Software Developer | Web Application Developer | |
| Yearly salary | $89,506 | $85,840 |
| Hourly rate | $43.03 | $41.27 |
| Growth rate | 21% | 13% |
| Number of jobs | 257,508 | 229,802 |
| Job satisfaction | - | - |
| Most common degree | Bachelor's Degree, 66% | Bachelor's Degree, 71% |
| Average age | 39 | 37 |
| 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 web application developer is responsible for designing website and system applications following clients' specifications and business' needs. Web application developers utilize their expertise in programming languages and system codes, ensuring the efficiency and smooth navigation of the website. They also run multiple diagnostic tests on the output before release, identifying inconsistencies, and addressing incompatibilities on browsers and devices. A web application developer should be detail-oriented and highly-technical as this job requires excellent digital knowledge to manage complex systems.
Embedded software developers and web application developers have different pay scales, as shown below.
| Embedded Software Developer | Web Application Developer | |
| Average salary | $89,506 | $85,840 |
| Salary range | Between $68,000 And $117,000 | Between $66,000 And $110,000 |
| Highest paying City | Mountain View, CA | Fairfield, CA |
| Highest paying state | California | Washington |
| Best paying company | Apple | Apple |
| Best paying industry | Automotive | Finance |
There are a few differences between an embedded software developer and a web application developer in terms of educational background:
| Embedded Software Developer | Web Application Developer | |
| Most common degree | Bachelor's Degree, 66% | Bachelor's Degree, 71% |
| 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 web application developers' demographics:
| Embedded Software Developer | Web Application Developer | |
| Average age | 39 | 37 |
| Gender ratio | Male, 89.3% Female, 10.7% | Male, 80.9% Female, 19.1% |
| 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, 6.5% Unknown, 6.5% Hispanic or Latino, 12.1% Asian, 16.1% White, 58.4% American Indian and Alaska Native, 0.4% |
| LGBT Percentage | 8% | 9% |