What does an embedded software developer do?
Embedded software developers design, develop, and maintain software specifically created for embedded systems and devices. These systems are often part of larger hardware systems with specific, dedicated functions, such as automobiles, medical devices, IoT gadgets, and industrial machinery. Embedded software developers bridge the gap between hardware and software, ensuring that embedded systems function smoothly and efficiently.
The role of embedded software developers involves working closely with hardware engineers to ensure seamless integration between software and hardware components. They develop code that runs on microcontrollers and processors, providing the device functions as intended.
These professionals are also responsible for debugging, testing, and optimising software to meet performance requirements. Given the wide range of applications, such as consumer electronics and automotive systems, embedded software developers are significant in ensuring reliability, performance, and efficiency in embedded systems.
Embedded software developers are also called embedded systems developers or embedded software engineers. They may be confused with embedded systems engineers and software engineers. However, these professionals differ in their core responsibilities and scope of work.
While the former focuses solely on software development, embedded systems engineers focus on both the hardware and software of embedded systems. And while software engineers work on general-purpose computer software and applications, embedded software developers work on software for specific hardware with resource constraints.
Job Description: Template
We’re seeking an experienced embedded software developer to join our team at [Company X].
You will develop, test, and optimise software for embedded systems, working closely with hardware engineers to ensure the smooth operation of devices and systems. This position requires a deep understanding of embedded systems architecture, programming languages like C/C++, and hands-on experience with real-time operating systems (RTOS).
If you’re passionate about embedded systems and enjoy solving complex technical challenges, we invite you to join our fast-paced, growth-oriented environment. We offer an attractive remuneration, a comprehensive benefits package, and a collaborative work environment.
Objectives of this role
- Designing and developing embedded software for various hardware platforms, including microcontrollers and processors.
- Writing efficient, reliable, and optimised code in C/C++ and other programming languages for embedded systems to ensure system functionality and reliability.
- Collaborating with hardware engineers to ensure seamless integration of software and hardware components.
- Developing software that meets performance, reliability, and scalability standards.
- Optimising software performance, including memory usage, processing speed, and energy efficiency.
- Participating in system architecture design and contributing to technical decision-making.
- Working with real-time operating systems (RTOS) and embedded Linux environments.
- Developing and maintaining technical documentation for software development and testing.
- Documenting software design, coding practices, and maintenance procedures.
- Ensuring the software meets industry standards, safety regulations, and project specifications.
Your tasks
- Analyse project requirements and translate them into embedded software design specifications.
- Write efficient, reusable embedded code that interfaces with hardware components such as sensors, actuators, and communication modules.
- Test and debug software using simulation tools, hardware emulators, and on-target testing methods in simulated environments before deployment to real-world devices.
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams to define software requirements and validate product functionality.
- Optimise embedded systems for performance, including code execution and power consumption.
- Provide technical support and troubleshooting for software-related issues during production, manufacturing, testing, and field operations.
- Implement software updates and enhancements in existing embedded systems.
- Prepare technical documentation, including design specs and code annotations.
- Stay updated with industry trends, new technologies, and best practices in embedded software development.
Required skills and qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or a related field.
- 2-5 years of experience as an embedded software developer with solid knowledge of embedded systems architecture.
- Proficiency in programming languages such as C/C++ or assembly language.
- Familiarity with RTOS (Real-Time Operating Systems), embedded Linux, and other embedded platforms.
- Good understanding of debugging and testing embedded systems, including hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) testing.
- In-depth understanding of microcontrollers, microprocessors, and hardware-software interaction.
- Proficiency in debugging tools, oscilloscopes, and logic analysers for hardware troubleshooting.
- Familiarity with version control systems (e.g., Git) and development pipelines.
- Understanding low-level hardware architecture, software optimization, memory management, and real-time processing.
- Strong problem-solving skills and ability to work with hardware/software interfaces.
- Excellent communication skills and ability to work effectively in a collaborative environment.
Preferred skills and qualifications
- Master’s degree in Embedded Systems, Computer Engineering, or a related field.
- Experience with ARM architecture, PIC, or other microcontroller architectures.
- Experience with embedded security and encryption protocols.
- Knowledge of communication protocols such as UART, SPI, I2C, CAN, or Ethernet.
- Hands-on experience with IoT devices and wireless communication protocols (e.g., BLE, Zigbee).
- Knowledge of Python or other scripting languages for testing automation.
- Familiarity with Agile development methodologies and tools like Jira.
- Familiarity with MATLAB/Simulink for simulation and modelling.
- Understanding of power management techniques for low-power embedded systems.
