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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
1
Salary range
£38k – £80k
Hiring companies
1
View 1 live role → 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

£38k – £80k

Based on advertised midpoints across the 53 UK listings priced in pounds in the last 12 months. Base salary only.

Salary visibility
39% of listings advertise a salary.
By seniority
£k base
Mid
40
73
16 jobs
Senior
46
89
13 jobs
Skills & tools

What hiring managers ask for

% of 43 listings posted in the last 12 months that mention each skill, extracted from job descriptions.

C
60%
C++
53%
Embedded Systems
44%
Linux
33%
RTOS
26%
Python
23%
Git
21%
SPI
19%
CAN
16%
CI/CD
14%
I2C
14%
ARM
12%
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

1 live role

Embedded Systems Engineer

This role involves designing and developing custom PCBs and embedded firmware for next-generation HVAC systems using C/C++, Python, and various communication protocols. The engineer will work on solid-state heat pump technology, control systems, and hardware-in-the-loop testing, collaborating with mechanical and thermal engineers.

WR HVAC London, City And County Of the City Of London, United Kingdom £60,000 – £70,000 pa
Hiring locations

Where this role is hiring

The locations with the most live listings for this role today.

London

Location
1 open
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.

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