Embedded Systems Engineer Salary in 2026
Design and develop software for embedded systems in devices and hardware.
Median Salary
$110,000
$9,167/mo
Entry Level
$78,000
starting pay
Senior Level
$155,000
experienced
Job Growth
+12%
10-yr outlook
Embedded Systems Engineer Overview
Design and develop software for embedded systems in devices and hardware.
Education
Bachelor's Degree
Experience
3-5 years
Industry
Technology
Total Jobs (US)
55K
5-Year Growth
+14%
Category
Technology
Hourly Rate
$52.88/hr
Monthly Pay
$9,167
Embedded Systems Engineer Salary Calculator
Adjust your state and experience level to see the estimated Embedded Systems Engineer salary in your area.
Mid Career (5-9 yrs)
Estimated Embedded Systems Engineer Salary
$129,000
$10,750/month · $4,962/biweekly · $62.02/hr
Embedded Systems Engineer Salary Range
Salary distribution from entry-level to top earners in the Embedded Systems Engineer field.
Entry-level Embedded Systems Engineers earn around $78,000, while the top 10% earn $170,000 or more.
Top Paying States for Embedded Systems Engineers
| State | Est. Median Salary | vs National |
|---|---|---|
| California | $130,000 | +$20,000 |
| Massachusetts | $123,000 | +$13,000 |
| Oregon | $113,000 | +$3,000 |
| Texas | $108,000 | $-2,000 |
| Michigan | $105,000 | $-5,000 |
Top Paying Cities for Embedded Systems Engineers
| City | Est. Median Salary | vs National |
|---|---|---|
| San Jose | $141,000 | +$31,000 |
| Boston | $123,000 | +$13,000 |
| Portland | $117,000 | +$7,000 |
| Austin | $113,000 | +$3,000 |
| Detroit | $105,000 | $-5,000 |
Required Skills & Certifications
Key Skills
Certifications
Embedded Systems Engineer Career Progression
Typical salary growth path for a Embedded Systems Engineer from entry level to expert.
$78,000
0-2 years
$117,000
3-7 years
$155,000
8-14 years
$185,000
15+ years
Related Technology Jobs
Embedded Systems Engineer Salary FAQ
How much does a Embedded Systems Engineer make in 2026?
The median salary for a Embedded Systems Engineer in the United States is $110,000 per year in 2026. Entry-level positions start around $78,000, while senior professionals earn up to $155,000. Top earners in the field can make $185,000 or more annually.
What education is needed to become a Embedded Systems Engineer?
A Embedded Systems Engineer typically requires a Bachelor's Degree with 3-5 years of experience. Key skills include C/C++, RTOS, Microcontrollers. Relevant certifications such as Embedded Linux Certification can boost earning potential and career advancement.
What is the job outlook for Embedded Systems Engineers?
The job market for Embedded Systems Engineers is projected to grow by 12% over the next decade. There are currently approximately 55K Embedded Systems Engineer positions in the US. Salary growth over the past 5 years has been approximately 14%, reflecting strong demand for this role.
Which states pay Embedded Systems Engineers the most?
The highest-paying states for Embedded Systems Engineers include California, Texas, Michigan. In California, the median salary is approximately $130,000. However, cost of living varies significantly, so adjusted purchasing power should be considered when comparing salaries across states.
How can I increase my Embedded Systems Engineer salary?
To increase your Embedded Systems Engineer salary, focus on gaining expertise in high-demand skills like C/C++ and RTOS. Pursue certifications such as Embedded Linux Certification. Consider relocating to higher-paying markets like San Jose. With 3-5 years of experience, you can progress from $78,000 to $155,000 or more.
Methodology & Data Sources — Embedded Systems Engineer Salary
How we calculate Embedded Systems Engineer salary data: Our figures combine BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS) for the national salary baseline, adjusted by cost-of-living multipliers from the C2ER Cost of Living Index. State-level estimates use BLS regional wage survey data weighted by occupation employment counts. We calibrate entry/senior/top-level tiers against BLS percentile distributions (P10, P25, P75, P90) for this occupation.
- National median salary: $110,000 — sourced from BLS OEWS for SOC code corresponding to Embedded Systems Engineer in the Technology sector.
- Entry-level ($78,000) and senior-level ($155,000) figures reflect BLS P25 and P75 percentile wage estimates adjusted for experience.
- Job outlook: +12% projected growth through 2034, from BLS Employment Projections program. Approximately 55K total positions nationwide.
- 5-year salary growth: 14% over the past 5 years, derived from BLS Employment Cost Index for Technology sector wages.
- Education requirement: Bachelor's Degree, per BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook entry for this occupation.
- State-level estimates use BLS regional CPI-U data and OEWS metropolitan area wage surveys, normalized to the national median of $110,000.
Authoritative US data sources for Embedded Systems Engineer compensation:
- BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS) — national and metro-area salary data
- BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook — Embedded Systems Engineer job projections, education, and career outlook
- BLS Employment Projections — 10-year occupation growth and decline data
- BLS Employment Cost Index — quarterly compensation trend data for Technology
- BLS Consumer Price Index (CPI-U) — regional inflation for cost-of-living wage adjustments
- IRS Revenue Procedure 2025-32 summary — 2026 federal tax brackets and standard deductions
Disclaimer: Embedded Systems Engineer salary figures are statistical estimates for general guidance. Actual compensation depends on employer, location, negotiation, specific skills (C/C++, RTOS, Microcontrollers), certifications, and industry conditions. Always verify with multiple sources including current job listings, recruiter data, and direct employer offers before making career decisions.
Reviewed by Brazora Monk · Last updated May 17, 2026 · BLS data current as of latest OEWS annual release
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