Job profile
Embedded software developer (m/f/d)
Embedded software developers: specialists in the development area
Embedded software interacts with specific technical systems. Such embedded systems can be found, for example, in the field of medical technology (e.g. in pacemakers) or in everyday life (e.g. in coffee machines and televisions). The task of embedded software developers is to program the software for these systems. Since these systems are omnipresent, the job of an embedded software developer is a job with a lot of future potential.
Which opportunities do embedded software developers have on the labour market?
Embedded software developers are highly sought-after – not only companies in large cities are looking for them. Compared to other professions in the industry, embedded software developers have an above-average income. Depending on individual qualifications and interests, they can work in industries such as information technology or engineering.
What are the tasks and responsibilities of embedded software developers?
Embedded software developers program software and components for embedded systems, i.e. for specific hardware, such as control devices. Furthermore, debugging is part of their daily work. This makes systems safer and more cost-efficient.
Since you can work in various industries, the tasks in embedded software development are diverse. In summary, the following activities describe the job profile very well:
- Analysis of technical requirements in companies
- Design and development of embedded software
- Software debugging
- Further development and optimisation of existing embedded systems
Which hard skills and soft skills should embedded software developers have?
Embedded software developers must have very good programming skills. A degree in computer sciences definitely is a plus, alternatively mechanical engineering, mechatronics or electrical engineering courses can also enable you to get started. In that case, however, you will have to teach yourself the relevant programming languages elsewhere. In the meantime, some universities offer special degree programmes for the subject area, such as the "Embedded Systems Engineering" degree programme in Freiburg. However, programmers with relevant skills and experience can also start a career in embedded software engineering. To be a successful embedded software developer, it is essential to continuously develop further and to always stay up-to-date with the latest technology.
In addition, an interest in electrical engineering, certain soft skills, such as team spirit, and foreign language skills are important. In summary, you should bring the following with you for this profession:
- An academic degree in a field related to computer sciences or automation technology or a similar qualification
- Technical know-how and an interest in the interfaces between hardware and software
- Excellent hardware programming skills
- Knowledge of operating systems
- Experience with databases
- A target-oriented way of working
- A proactive approach
Salary: Embedded software developers
The salary of embedded software developers is higher than the average salary within the industry. It varies depending on qualifications, professional experience and company size. At the beginning of their career, embedded software developers earn a gross annual salary of about EUR 50,000. With more responsibility, income increases as well. While the average gross annual salary of programmers (m/f/d) in Germany amounts to about EUR 80,000, experienced senior embedded software developers may earn up to EUR 95,000.
Job with future prospects: these industries are promising
As an embedded software engineer, you can choose the industry in which you would like to work. Embedded systems play a key role in the automotive industry, automation technology, Industry 4.0 and mechanical engineering. Beyond that, you also have a wide range of possible companies at your disposal - from large corporations to start-ups.
Top job offers for embedded software developers
This might also interest you
Job interview tips
Have you cleared the first hurdle and been invited to an interview? Don't waste any time, and get our tips now so that you can impress all along the line when you try them out in person.
Contract design made easy
Find the type of contract that suits your needs. It does not always have to be a permanent position or temporary work.
Salary checker
Are you earning enough? In our salary comparison, you can anonymously obtain salary information, regardless of whether it is a junior or senior position.