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The differences between embedded software engineers and computer engineers can be seen in a few details. Each job has different responsibilities and duties. It typically takes 1-2 years to become both an embedded software engineer and a computer engineer. Additionally, an embedded software engineer has an average salary of $102,143, which is higher than the $96,805 average annual salary of a computer engineer.
The top three skills for an embedded software engineer include python, software development and linux. The most important skills for a computer engineer are python, software development, and java.
| Embedded Software Engineer | Computer Engineer | |
| Yearly salary | $102,143 | $96,805 |
| Hourly rate | $49.11 | $46.54 |
| Growth rate | 21% | 10% |
| Number of jobs | 171,613 | 126,709 |
| Job satisfaction | - | - |
| Most common degree | Bachelor's Degree, 73% | Bachelor's Degree, 66% |
| Average age | 39 | 42 |
| Years of experience | 2 | 2 |
An embedded software engineer is an individual who develops and implements software of embedded devices and systems as well as monitor the efficiency and stability of the system. Embedded software engineers should write programming codes and conduct testing of system software to optimize the input/output (I/O) performance. They must support the software QA and provide post-production support if necessary. Embedded software engineers should interface with hardware design and development and assess third-party and open-source software.
A computer engineer is someone who examines, designs, and manages computer hardware and software systems. He/She or she helps in solving issues or any concerns that may occur with the computer's hardware and software as well as assists in the innovation of computer technology. Computer engineers are responsible for computer hardware design, development, research, and test computer systems. They examine components like circuit boards, processors, memory devices, routers, and networks. While, those working with the computer software are in charge of the development, design, and administration of software programs.
Embedded software engineers and computer engineers have different pay scales, as shown below.
| Embedded Software Engineer | Computer Engineer | |
| Average salary | $102,143 | $96,805 |
| Salary range | Between $77,000 And $134,000 | Between $70,000 And $132,000 |
| Highest paying City | San Francisco, CA | San Francisco, CA |
| Highest paying state | California | California |
| Best paying company | Meta | Waymo |
| Best paying industry | Automotive | Finance |
There are a few differences between an embedded software engineer and a computer engineer in terms of educational background:
| Embedded Software Engineer | Computer Engineer | |
| Most common degree | Bachelor's Degree, 73% | Bachelor's Degree, 66% |
| Most common major | Electrical Engineering | Computer Engineering |
| Most common college | Harvard University | Harvard University |
Here are the differences between embedded software engineers' and computer engineers' demographics:
| Embedded Software Engineer | Computer Engineer | |
| Average age | 39 | 42 |
| Gender ratio | Male, 86.8% Female, 13.2% | Male, 86.3% Female, 13.7% |
| Race ratio | Black or African American, 4.6% Unknown, 4.9% Hispanic or Latino, 8.4% Asian, 30.8% White, 51.1% American Indian and Alaska Native, 0.2% | Black or African American, 10.7% Unknown, 5.3% Hispanic or Latino, 15.0% Asian, 15.0% White, 53.5% American Indian and Alaska Native, 0.4% |
| LGBT Percentage | 8% | 11% |