Embedded Software Developer

Job profile

Embedded Software Developer

Nowadays, embedded software is found in many of our everyday objects and brings them to "life". These include smartphones, cars, pacemakers, coffee machines and televisions. 

The unseen architects behind this software are embedded software developers who seamlessly shape our interactions with modern technology by programming the embedded systems. As these systems are omnipresent and are strongly anchored in numerous industries, the job of embedded software developer is a profession with a lot of future potential. 

Key Facts

Embedded Software Entwickler

Tasks
  • Programming and implementation of the software 
Education
  • Degree in Embedded Systems or Computer Science 
Skills
  • Knowledge of programming languages and operating systems 
Wages
Ø 56.000 €
gross per year
Tasks
  • Programming and implementation of the software 
Education
  • Degree in Embedded Systems or Computer Science 
Skills
  • Knowledge of programming languages and operating systems 
Wages
Ø 56.000 €
gross per year

Title/no TItle

  • For applicants
  • For companies 
  • For freelancers 

Are you looking for a job as an Embedded Software Developer (m/f/d)? 

As an embedded programmer, you are in high demand in numerous industries. Find your dream job and programme embedded systems for well-known brands and everyday objects. 

Are you looking for an Embedded Software Developer (m/f/d)? 

Are you looking for ambitious embedded software developers to give your products and services the next digital polish? We will do the search for you and introduce you to suitable embedded programmers. 

Are you a freelance Embedded Software Developer (m/f/d) looking for a project? 

Are you a freelance embedded software developer with excellent programming and hardware skills and relevant project experience? We will find an exciting new challenge for you that will further enhance your portfolio. 

What is an embedded software developer?
Definition and overview

Embedded software is a binary system that is built into compatible hardware and communicates with it. Embedded software developers, embedded developers or embedded software engineers are needed to create and install these systems so that they work the way we want them to - for example, the automatic spacer in a car.  

They design, programme and implement the software and transform the respective hardware into the helpful everyday objects that we use every day. As a result, the car's built-in sensors can measure the distance and initiate targeted braking when necessary. 

The profession of embedded developer is becoming more and more relevant as our world becomes more technological. Embedded systems are used in almost every industry, making embedded developers a highly sought-after profession. 

Embedded software developer salary:
a comprehensive overview

Salaries in embedded software development are above average compared to the rest of the industry and vary depending on qualifications, professional experience and the size of the company.  

On average, the salary of an embedded software developer in Germany is just under €56,000 gross per year. According to the Hays IT Salary Report from 2023, IT specialists in automotive manufacturing and supply receive the highest salaries in Germany. Salaries are also highest in large companies based in major cities. 

Starting salary for embedded software developers:
your earnings at the start of your career

The starting salary for embedded developer jobs is around €48,000 gross per year. The salary can be higher for jobs with more responsibility for software development. 

Educational qualifications play a major role in the salary of IT specialists. In the IT Salary Report 2023, Hays found that salaries can differ by around €10,000 per year between those who have completed an apprenticeship and those who have a Master's degree.  

Senior Embedded Software Developer
Salary

Experienced Senior Embedded Software Developers achieve an annual gross salary of up to €75,000. 

What does an embedded software developer do? Tasks and activities

Embedded software developers programme sophisticated software and components for "embedded systems". At the heart of such a system are one or more microprocessors that can receive and send signals to make the respective product functional. The processor itself is controlled by the code programmed by the embedded software developers. The interaction of hardware and software is referred to as an embedded system. 

As the technology is used in numerous industries, the tasks in embedded software development are diverse.

To summarise, embedded software developers have these tasks: 

  • Analysing technical requirements in the company 

  • Conceptualisation of the embedded software 

  • Programming and implementation of the software 

  • Testing and creation of prototypes 

  • Design of micromechanical components 

  • Code reviews and debugging of the software 

  • Further development and optimisation of existing embedded systems 

How do you become an embedded software developer?
- Training, studies & further education

A degree in an information technology or engineering field is primarily suitable for a career as an embedded software engineer. However, a completed vocational training programme in a similar field can also prepare you for working with embedded systems. A good grasp of the job and practical experience in the field of computer engineering are particularly important.

Embedded Software Developer degree programme:
The academic path

A relevant degree offers the best prerequisites for starting a career as an embedded software developer. Most employers value a Bachelor's or Master's degree as well as industry-specific professional experience.  

A degree in computer science is most likely to be recommended; alternatively, mechanical engineering, mechatronics or electrical engineering programmes can also provide an entry point. However, it is then important to learn the most common programming languages elsewhere. 

Some universities now also offer special degree programmes in this field, which prepare students as well as possible for working in embedded software engineering. 

Possible Embedded Software Engineering degree programmes in Germany: 

Further training as an embedded software developer

For technically minded career changers, there are various further training programmes in the field of embedded software that prepare participants for this exciting profession. Different training programmes are suitable depending on the level of experience and professional goals. 
Possible further training programmes for (prospective) embedded software developers are 

Knowledge is power

Subscribe to our newsletter now and never miss any more career information.

What soft and hard skills characterise embedded software developers?

First and foremost, very good programming skills are required for the job of Embedded SW Engineer. In addition, it is important to continuously develop your skills and always be up to date with the latest technology, as the requirements for technologically demanding roles such as these are evolving at a rapid pace. 
To summarise, you should have the following hard skills for this job: 

  • Bachelor's or Master's degree in the field of computer science, automation technology or engineering sciences 

  • (Electrical) technical expertise and interest in the interface between hardware and software 

  • Good knowledge of the programming languages C, C++ and Embedded C++ 

  • Excellent knowledge of hardware programming 

  • Knowledge of operating systems 

  • Experience with databases 

  • Mathematical and physical understanding 

  • Very good knowledge of English 

Other important soft skills are: 

  • Goal-orientated way of working 

  • Personal initiative 

  • Quick comprehension 

  • Great interest in technology, software and hardware 

 Embedded software developer career:
job with future prospects

Female software developers are in high demand on the labour market, with companies in cities such as Hamburg, Stuttgart and Berlin looking for qualified embedded software developers. Depending on their qualifications and interests, they work in fields of expertise such as information technology and engineering.  

As an embedded software engineer, you can choose the industry you want to work in. Embedded systems are particularly important in the automotive industry, automation technology, Industry 4.0 and mechanical engineering. It doesn't matter whether you work for start-ups, medium-sized German companies or large corporations.  

Top embedded software developer jobs:
Jobs throughout Germany

FAQ

What does an embedded developer do?

An embedded developer programmes and implements software for embedded systems that are used in devices such as cars, smartphones and household appliances. This involves harmonising software and hardware. 

What does an embedded developer do?

An embedded developer programmes and implements software for embedded systems that are used in devices such as cars, smartphones and household appliances. This involves harmonising software and hardware. 


What does an embedded software developer earn?

An embedded software developer in Germany earns an average of around €56,000 gross per year, although the salary can vary depending on qualifications and professional experience. 

What does an embedded software developer earn?

An embedded software developer in Germany earns an average of around €56,000 gross per year, although the salary can vary depending on qualifications and professional experience. 


What is the job of an embedded developer?

The main tasks of an embedded developer include analysing technical requirements, programming and implementing the software as well as testing and optimising embedded systems. 

What is the job of an embedded developer?

The main tasks of an embedded developer include analysing technical requirements, programming and implementing the software as well as testing and optimising embedded systems. 


Which programming language for embedded systems?

The programming languages C and C++ are mainly used for the development of embedded systems. 

Which programming language for embedded systems?

The programming languages C and C++ are mainly used for the development of embedded systems.