Are embedded software engineers in demand?

Yes, embedded software engineers are in demand. In fact, positions for embedded software engineers are expected to grow over 20% by 2028, according to The Better Business Bureau. Embedded software engineering is a critical position in many technologies and products. Pretty much anything, from toasters and flashlights to smartwatches, digital TVs, smartphones, airplanes, and electronic control units in cars, has embedded software in it.

How can I start a career in embedded systems?

To start a career in embedded systems, you need the right educational training and job experience. An embedded systems position is a multidisciplinary job requiring comprehensive computer, electronics, and electrical engineering skills.

How much do embedded software engineers make?

Embedded software engineers make, on average, $81,000 a year ($39.02 an hour). However, there is a considerable range in how much an embedded software engineer can make - starting from as little as $64,000 to as much as $150,000 a year.

What are the skills required for an embedded engineer?

The skills required for an embedded engineer are numerous and highly technical. An embedded system is just a blend of hardware and software, tailor-made for a specific purpose. Almost everything we use is part of an embedded system, from everyday appliances, smartphones to ceiling fans. Therefore, embedded systems engineers need to understand the entire process and be multidisciplinary with strong computing, electrical, and electronics expertise.

What is an embedded software engineer and how to become one

Updated January 8, 2025

4 min read

Quoted experts

Frank McCown Ph.D.,

Christian Hansen Ph.D.

An embedded software engineer designs, develops, and tests software for embedded systems such as medical devices, automobiles, and consumer electronics. They work with hardware engineers to ensure that components are compatible and functional. Their responsibilities include writing code, debugging software, and optimizing performance. Embedded software engineers also collaborate with project managers and teams to complete projects on time and within budget. They must have problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and an understanding of computer science.

What general advice would you give to an embedded software engineer?

Frank McCown Ph.D.

Associate Professor, Harding University

The market is stable for software developers, despite the economic challenges created by the pandemic. Before accepting a job offer, talk to the company's employees through online meetings or email, and see what they think of the company. Do they enjoy their work? Are there opportunities to learn new technologies? How does the company treat their employees? There's a good chance you will be working remotely in your first job, so you will need to exercise a lot of self-discipline, be punctual for online meetings, do the work you've been assigned, and know when to ask questions when you get stuck. Expect a steeper-than-normal learning curve if you are working remotely instead of in an office.

ScoreEmbedded Software EngineerUS Average

Salary

7.7

Avg. Salary $102,143

Avg. Salary $59,228

Stability level

4.7

Growth rate 21%

Growth rate 0.3%

Diversity

4.0

Race

American Indian and Alaska Native 0.17%

Asian 30.81%

Black or African American 4.65%

Hispanic or Latino 8.42%

Unknown 4.86%

White 51.11%

Gender

female 13.22%

male 86.78%

Age - 38

Race

American Indian and Alaska Native 3.00%

Asian 7.00%

Black or African American 14.00%

Hispanic or Latino 19.00%

White 57.00%

Gender

female 47.00%

male 53.00%

Age - 38

Stress level

4.7

Stress level is manageable

7.1 - high

Complexity level

6.8

Complexity level is challenging

7 - challenging

Work life balance

6.2

Work life balance is fair

6.4 - fair

What are the pros and cons of being an embedded software engineer?

Pros

High demand for embedded software engineers
Competitive salary and benefits package
Possibility of working remotely
High job security due to the importance of embedded systems in various industries
Potential for innovation and creativity in problem-solving

Cons

Long hours and tight deadlines
Often requires specialized training or certifications
Risk of burnout due to intense workload and pressure
Limited interaction with end-users
Can be repetitive work, especially when working on similar projects for extended periods

Key steps to become an embedded software engineer

Explore embedded software engineer education requirements

Most common embedded software engineer degrees

Bachelor's

72.8 %

Master's

20.7 %

Associate

3.1 %

Start to develop specific embedded software engineer skills

Skills	Percentages
Python	8.42%
Software Development	8.36%
Linux	6.65%
C	6.28%
C++	6.28%

Complete relevant embedded software engineer training and internships

Accountants spend an average of 1-3 months on post-employment, on-the-job training. New embedded software engineers learn the skills and techniques required for their job and employer during this time. The chart below shows how long it takes to gain competency as an embedded software engineer based on U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data and data from real embedded software engineer resumes.

Research embedded software engineer duties and responsibilities

Review and manage defects using Jira and SVN.
Create script files to automate compilation and linking of source files using compilers commands and Perl on a regular basis.
Manage firmware of automate bench top devices that utilize a microprocessor.
Create custom domain specific UI controls with JavaScript and CSS.

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