Future Tech Jobs Future Tech Jobs

Embedded Systems Engineer Jobs

Design and develop the brains of devices that operate at the network edge. From IoT sensors to industrial machinery, these engineers ensure real-time performance and reliability.

Open roles
5
Salary range
£40k – £70k
Hiring companies
5
View 5 live roles → Get an alert

Embedded Systems Engineers are the architects of the hardware and software that power devices at the network edge. They work on everything from tiny IoT sensors to complex industrial machinery, ensuring that these devices can operate efficiently and reliably in real-time. These roles are crucial in the edge computing ecosystem, where low latency and high reliability are paramount. Companies ranging from scaleups to the larger consultancies are actively hiring in this space, driven by the growing demand for edge-optimised solutions.

What the role does

Inside the role of an Embedded Systems Engineer

A typical week is split between coding, testing, and collaborating with cross-functional teams.

  1. 01
    Design and implement embedded software solutions.
  2. 02
    Conduct code reviews and participate in peer feedback sessions.
  3. 03
    Test and debug hardware and software components.
  4. 04
    Collaborate with hardware engineers on system integration.
  5. 05
    Document design decisions and technical specifications.
  6. 06
    Stay updated with the latest advancements in edge computing and IoT.
Salary on the board

£40k – £70k

Based on advertised midpoints across the 3 priced listings posted in the last 12 months. Base salary only.

By seniority
£k base
Mid
40
60
1 job
Senior
50
70
1 job
Career ladder

From Junior to Principal

A typical UK progression for embedded systems engineers. Years are guidance — strong people move faster, and many senior folks sidestep into research, product or management.

  1. Level 1

    Junior Embedded Systems Engineer

    0–2 yrs

    Assist in the development and testing of embedded systems, focusing on learning and gaining hands-on experience.

  2. Level 2

    Embedded Systems Engineer

    2–5 yrs

    Take ownership of specific modules or components, contributing to the overall system design and implementation.

  3. Level 3

    Senior Embedded Systems Engineer

    5–8 yrs

    Lead the design and development of complex embedded systems, mentoring junior engineers and driving innovation.

  4. Level 4

    Principal Embedded Systems Engineer

    8+ yrs

    Oversee the entire embedded systems development lifecycle, from concept to deployment, and influence strategic decisions.

Pathway

How to become a Embedded Systems Engineer

There's no single route, but most people follow some version of these steps.

  1. 1

    Learn the Basics

    Gain foundational knowledge in embedded systems, including programming languages, hardware interfaces, and real-time operating systems.

  2. 2

    Gain Practical Experience

    Work on projects that involve designing, coding, and testing embedded systems. Participate in code reviews and collaborate with hardware engineers.

  3. 3

    Specialise in a Domain

    Focus on a specific area such as IoT, industrial automation, or real-time data processing. Develop deep expertise in this domain.

  4. 4

    Lead Projects

    Take on leadership roles in embedded systems projects, managing teams and driving the development of complex systems.

  5. 5

    Influence Strategy

    Contribute to the strategic direction of the company by identifying new opportunities and innovations in edge computing and IoT.

Live jobs

5 live roles

Embedded Systems Engineer

Our client is a leading innovator in advanced scientific instrumentation, developing cutting-edge technologies used across a range of high-impact sectors including research, healthcare, and industrial applications. As part of their continued growth and investment in R&D, they are seeking an...

VRS UK Sheffield, South Yorkshire, United Kingdom £40,000 – £60,000 pa
On-site Permanent

Embedded Systems Engineer

Embedded Systems EngineerA long-established global manufacturer of high-voltage power solutions used in medical devices, semiconductor equipment, scientific instruments and industrial systems. The organisation operates design and manufacturing facilities across North America, Europe and Asia and partners with leading OEMs developing...

Terry Parris Associates Codmore Hill, West Sussex, RH20 1DQ, United Kingdom

Senior Embedded Systems Engineer - Linux - Xilinx - Video

Senior Embedded Systems Engineer (Linux, Xilinx, Video)High Wycombe / Thames Valley area (Hybrid) – 6 – 12 month contractFor more details contact Adam Mayne, (url removed) (phone number removed)We are seeking a highly experienced Embedded Linux specialist to work with...

Vector Recruitment High Wycombe, Buckinghamshire, United Kingdom £600 – £650 pd

Senior Embedded Systems Engineer

This role involves leading the development of robust, deployable embedded Linux and edge AI systems for a camera-based platform using NVIDIA Jetson hardware. You will work across software, electronics, and hardware integration, focusing on performance, reliability, and delivery in real-world environments.

Enterprise Recruitment Nottingham, Nottinghamshire, United Kingdom £50,000 – £70,000 pa
On-site Permanent

Embedded System Engineer

Embedded Systems Engineer (Hybrid – Grantham)Are you an Embedded Systems Engineer who thrives on developing smart, future‑focused technology? This role offers the chance to shape next‑generation condition‑monitoring products and contribute to a long‑term technology roadmap that supports global sustainability.You’ll work...

Sauce People Ltd Grantham, Lincolnshire, United Kingdom £50,000 – £60,000 pa
FAQs

Common questions

  • Essential skills include proficiency in C/C++, understanding of hardware interfaces, knowledge of real-time operating systems, and experience with debugging tools.

  • An Embedded Systems Engineer focuses on the hardware-software interface and real-time performance, while a Software Engineer typically works on higher-level applications and systems.

  • Common industries include automotive, aerospace, manufacturing, and telecommunications, as well as tech companies and research institutions.

  • Continuously update your skills, gain practical experience, specialise in a domain, and take on leadership roles to advance your career.

  • Salaries vary based on experience and location. For more detailed information, refer to the salary section on this page.

Hiring embedded systems engineers?

Post your role in 90 seconds and reach the specialist audience that already reads this page.

Post a job → See pricing

🍪 Basic, anonymous analytics (aggregate counts only, never shared) are always on. Accept to also enable third-party tools — Google Analytics, Microsoft Clarity, Mixpanel, Leadfeeder — which help us match you with relevant Edge Computing roles. We never sell your data or use it for cross-site advertising. See our Cookie Policy.