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The differences between senior firmware engineers and embedded software developers can be seen in a few details. Each job has different responsibilities and duties. It typically takes 1-2 years to become both a senior firmware engineer and an embedded software developer. Additionally, a senior firmware engineer has an average salary of $123,759, which is higher than the $89,506 average annual salary of an embedded software developer.
The top three skills for a senior firmware engineer include python, SPI and embedded systems. The most important skills for an embedded software developer are python, software development, and linux.
| Senior Firmware Engineer | Embedded Software Developer | |
| Yearly salary | $123,759 | $89,506 |
| Hourly rate | $59.50 | $43.03 |
| Growth rate | 21% | 21% |
| Number of jobs | 58,307 | 257,508 |
| Job satisfaction | 4 | - |
| Most common degree | Bachelor's Degree, 71% | Bachelor's Degree, 66% |
| Average age | 39 | 39 |
| Years of experience | 2 | 2 |
As a senior firmware engineer, you will be in charge of designing software models such as special monitors, device drivers, and application firmware. You often need to test various software programs to improve the functionality of the products. You need to test the algorithms as well as optimize the products for the target audience. The algorithms which you structure should have practical applications so that the clients will meet their needs.
You also need to participate in the research and development process of the company so that you can understand the various requirements. From this discussion, you can create innovative ideas for the improvement of the products. Extensive knowledge of programming languages such as C, C++, PCI, Linux, and a bachelor's degree in computer science or computer engineering or a related field is required to qualify for this position.
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.
Senior firmware engineers and embedded software developers have different pay scales, as shown below.
| Senior Firmware Engineer | Embedded Software Developer | |
| Average salary | $123,759 | $89,506 |
| Salary range | Between $94,000 And $161,000 | Between $68,000 And $117,000 |
| Highest paying City | San Francisco, CA | Mountain View, CA |
| Highest paying state | Washington | California |
| Best paying company | Apple | Apple |
| Best paying industry | Automotive | Automotive |
There are a few differences between a senior firmware engineer and an embedded software developer in terms of educational background:
| Senior Firmware Engineer | Embedded Software Developer | |
| Most common degree | Bachelor's Degree, 71% | Bachelor's Degree, 66% |
| Most common major | Electrical Engineering | Electrical Engineering |
| Most common college | Harvard University | Harvard University |
Here are the differences between senior firmware engineers' and embedded software developers' demographics:
| Senior Firmware Engineer | Embedded Software Developer | |
| Average age | 39 | 39 |
| Gender ratio | Male, 90.0% Female, 10.0% | Male, 89.3% Female, 10.7% |
| Race ratio | Black or African American, 4.5% Unknown, 4.8% Hispanic or Latino, 8.2% Asian, 30.9% White, 51.4% American Indian and Alaska Native, 0.2% | 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% |
| LGBT Percentage | 8% | 8% |