Embedded Systems Engineer in New York Career Overview

As an Embedded Systems Engineer, you play a vital role in the design, development, and implementation of embedded systems—computer systems integrated into larger devices. Your responsibilities often include:

  • Designing Systems: You create functional specifications and architectural designs for embedded systems used in various applications, from consumer electronics to automotive systems.
  • Programming: You write and optimize software code that runs on microcontrollers, ensuring efficiency and performance.
  • Testing and Debugging: You conduct rigorous testing and troubleshooting to identify and resolve issues in hardware and software, ensuring reliable operation.
  • Collaboration: You work closely with other engineers and professionals, such as hardware engineers, systems engineers, and project managers, to bring projects from conception to completion.
  • Integration: You integrate hardware components with software systems to create cohesive, operational embedded systems.
  • Continuous Improvement: You monitor system performance and seek ways to enhance functionality, efficiency, and user experience.

The significance of your role cannot be overstated. Embedded systems are ubiquitous, found in a wide array of devices from medical equipment to advanced robotics. As technology continues to advance, your contributions drive innovation in how devices operate and interact within their environments. Your expertise supports the proliferation of smart technologies, enhancing the capability and reach of countless applications in everyday life and specialized industries.

Embedded Systems Engineer Salary in New York

Annual Median: $136,170
Hourly Median: $65.47

Data sourced from Career One Stop, provided by the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics wage estimates.

Required Education To Become an Embedded Systems Engineer in New York

To become an Embedded Systems Engineer, you will need to obtain relevant educational qualifications and training. Here are the specific college degree programs that are typically required:

  • Bachelor's Degree in Electrical and Electronics Engineering
    This program will provide you with a solid foundation in circuit design, signal processing, and microcontroller systems, which are essential for developing embedded systems.

  • Bachelor's Degree in Computer Engineering
    This degree combines elements of electrical engineering and computer science, equipping you with skills in hardware-software integration that is vital in embedded systems development.

  • Bachelor's Degree in Systems Engineering
    A systems engineering program focuses on the design and management of complex systems, allowing you to understand the entire lifecycle of embedded systems and how they operate within larger systems.

  • Bachelor's Degree in Computer Science
    This program will enhance your programming skills, algorithms, and software development techniques, all of which are important for creating embedded software.

  • Bachelor's Degree in Mechatronics
    A mechatronics degree integrates mechanical engineering, electronics, and computing, providing you with a comprehensive perspective on designing smart systems that involve embedded components.

  • Bachelor's Degree in Robotics
    Robotics involves the design and implementation of robotic systems, which often rely on embedded systems for functionality. This degree will give you insight into both hardware and software aspects of robotic systems.

  • Bachelor's Degree in Automation Engineering Technology
    This program focuses on automated systems and control engineering, preparing you to work with embedded systems used in various automation applications.

In addition to these degree programs, you may consider pursuing internships or co-op placements during your studies. This hands-on experience is beneficial in reinforcing the theoretical knowledge gained in your coursework and can provide exposure to real-world embedded systems projects.

Best Schools to become a Embedded Systems Engineer in New York 2024

#1Prince George's County

University of Maryland-College Park

College Park, MD

In-State Tuition:$9,695
Out-of-State Tuition:$37,931
Admission Rate:45%
Graduation Rate:89%
Total Enrollment:40,792
#2Los Angeles County

University of Southern California

Los Angeles, CA

In-State Tuition:$63,468
Out-of-State Tuition:$63,468
Admission Rate:12%
Graduation Rate:92%
Total Enrollment:48,945
#3Champaign County

University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign

Champaign, IL

In-State Tuition:$14,542
Out-of-State Tuition:$35,122
Admission Rate:45%
Graduation Rate:85%
Total Enrollment:56,916
#4Benton County

Oregon State University

Corvallis, OR

In-State Tuition:$10,425
Out-of-State Tuition:$31,200
Admission Rate:83%
Graduation Rate:70%
Total Enrollment:34,292
#5Orange County

University of California-Irvine

Irvine, CA

In-State Tuition:$11,564
Out-of-State Tuition:$41,636
Admission Rate:21%
Graduation Rate:87%
Total Enrollment:35,937
#6Maricopa County

Arizona State University Campus Immersion

Tempe, AZ

In-State Tuition:$10,978
Out-of-State Tuition:$29,952
Admission Rate:90%
Graduation Rate:67%
Total Enrollment:80,065
Embedded Systems Engineer Job Description:
  • Research, design, develop, or test computer or computer-related equipment for commercial, industrial, military, or scientific use.
  • May supervise the manufacturing and installation of computer or computer-related equipment and components.

Embedded Systems Engineer Required Skills and Competencies in New York

  • Programming Proficiency: Mastery of programming languages such as C, C++, and Python is essential. Familiarity with assembly language can also be advantageous for low-level programming tasks.

  • Microcontroller and Microprocessor Knowledge: Strong understanding of various microcontrollers and microprocessors, including architectures, instruction sets, and interfacing techniques.

  • Embedded Systems Design: Ability to design and develop embedded systems from conception through to implementation. This includes hardware selection, circuit design, and layout.

  • Real-Time Operating Systems (RTOS): Experience with real-time operating systems and understanding their role in managing hardware resources and executing tasks efficiently within time constraints.

  • Hardware Description Languages (HDL): Knowledge of HDLs such as VHDL or Verilog for designing and simulating digital circuits is beneficial.

  • Testing and Debugging Skills: Proficiency in testing embedded systems for functionality and performance. Experience with debugging tools and methodologies is critical for identifying and resolving software and hardware issues.

  • Interface Protocols: Understanding of communication protocols such as I2C, SPI, UART, and CAN. Being able to implement these protocols for device intercommunication is necessary.

  • System-level Thinking: Ability to consider the broader system implications of your work, understanding how your embedded system will interact with other components in a larger ecosystem.

  • Problem-solving Skills: Strong analytical and troubleshooting skills to address unexpected challenges and optimize the performance of embedded systems.

  • Version Control: Familiarity with version control systems such as Git for managing code changes and collaborating with other developers effectively.

  • Documentation Skills: Ability to document designs, code, and processes clearly and concisely, ensuring maintainability and facilitating collaboration with other team members.

  • Team Collaboration: Strong interpersonal skills to work effectively within a multidisciplinary team of engineers, project managers, and other stakeholders.

  • Continual Learning: A commitment to keeping up with the latest technologies, tools, and methodologies in the rapidly evolving field of embedded systems.

Job Duties for Embedded Systems Engineers

  • Confer with engineering staff and consult specifications to evaluate interface between hardware and software and operational and performance requirements of overall system.

  • Design and develop computer hardware and support peripherals, including central processing units (CPUs), support logic, microprocessors, custom integrated circuits, and printers and disk drives.

  • Update knowledge and skills to keep up with rapid advancements in computer technology.

Technologies and Skills Used by Embedded Systems Engineers

Analytical or scientific software

  • SAS
  • The MathWorks MATLAB

Computer aided design CAD software

  • Autodesk AutoCAD
  • Dassault Systemes CATIA

Desktop communications software

  • Eko

Basic Skills

  • Reading work related information
  • Thinking about the pros and cons of different ways to solve a problem

People and Technology Systems

  • Figuring out how a system should work and how changes in the future will affect it
  • Thinking about the pros and cons of different options and picking the best one

Problem Solving

  • Noticing a problem and figuring out the best way to solve it

Job Market and Opportunities for Embedded Systems Engineer in New York

The job market for Embedded Systems Engineers in New York is characterized by a blend of demand and growth potential. As industries increasingly integrate technology into their operations, the need for skilled engineers continues to rise. Here are some key aspects of the current job market:

  • High Demand: There is a significant demand for Embedded Systems Engineers, particularly in sectors such as telecommunications, automotive, healthcare, and consumer electronics. Companies are looking for professionals who can design, implement, and maintain embedded systems to enhance product functionality and efficiency.

  • Growth Potential: The growth potential in this field is robust. As more devices become connected and smarter, the complexity of embedded systems increases. This drives the need for engineers who can innovate and adapt to evolving technologies, such as the Internet of Things (IoT), artificial intelligence, and machine learning.

  • Geographical Hotspots: In New York, several areas are becoming prominent for Embedded Systems Engineers:

    • New York City: The tech scene in NYC is vibrant, with a multitude of startups and established companies focusing on product innovation. The demand for embedded systems is particularly strong in health tech and fintech sectors.
    • Albany: With a growing number of research facilities and tech companies, Albany offers opportunities in aerospace and defense, where embedded systems play a critical role in systems integration and product development.
    • Westchester County: This area is home to various industries, including telecommunications and automotive, which frequently seek embedded systems expertise for technology development and integration projects.
    • Long Island: The defense and aerospace industries are significant employers in this region, providing opportunities for engineers to engage in advanced technology projects.

  • Industry Trends: The ongoing transition toward smart technologies and automation within industries is likely to sustain job growth for Embedded Systems Engineers. Sectors such as renewable energy and electric vehicles continue to invest in embedded systems to improve efficiency and performance.

In summary, the job market for Embedded Systems Engineers in New York presents strong opportunities for growth and advancement, fueled by industry demand and evolving technological landscapes.

Top Related Careers to Embedded Systems Engineer 2024

Network Hardware Developer
Circuit Design Specialist
Firmware Developer
Peripherals Integration Engineer

Additional Resources To Help You Become an Embedded Systems Engineer in New York

  • IEEE (Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers)
    Explore membership benefits, publications, and conferences relevant to embedded systems.
    IEEE

  • Embedded Systems Design
    This resource provides articles, blogs, and news on embedded systems techniques and technologies.
    Embedded Systems Design

  • NIST (National Institute of Standards and Technology)
    Offers guidelines and standards for embedded systems security and performance.
    NIST

  • EDN Network
    Access technical articles, design tips, and product reviews focused on electronic design and embedded systems.
    EDN Network

  • MIT OpenCourseWare
    Free courses related to embedded systems, software engineering, and computer science.
    MIT OpenCourseWare

  • Coursera
    Find online courses on embedded systems from esteemed universities. Some may offer professional certificates.
    Coursera

  • The Embedded Systems Community (Embedded.com)
    A platform to read blogs, participate in forums, and gain insights from industry leaders.
    Embedded.com

  • ARM Developer
    Access technical documentation, training resources, and development tools related to ARM-based embedded systems.
    ARM Developer

  • GitHub
    Browse repositories related to embedded projects, collaborate with other engineers, and contribute to open-source embedded systems software.
    GitHub

  • LinkedIn Groups
    Join groups like “Embedded Systems” or “Embedded Software Engineers” for networking, discussions, and job postings. LinkedIn

  • National Society of Professional Engineers (NSPE)
    A professional association for engineers, offering resources to advance your career and maintain ethical standards.
    NSPE

  • IEEE Xplore Digital Library
    Access scholarly articles, conference papers, and industry journals on embedded systems engineering.
    IEEE Xplore

  • FunnelVision
    A community and resource center for engineers, focusing on embedded systems and IoT.
    FunnelVision

  • YouTube Channels
    Explore channels like “EEVblog” and “GreatScott!” for practical guides and tutorials on embedded systems projects.
    YouTube

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Embedded Systems Engineer in New York

  • What is an Embedded Systems Engineer?
    An Embedded Systems Engineer designs, develops, and maintains embedded systems—integrated hardware and software systems that perform dedicated functions within larger mechanical or electrical systems. These can be found in devices like smartphones, automobiles, medical equipment, and consumer electronics.

  • What skills are essential for an Embedded Systems Engineer?
    Key skills include:

    • Proficiency in programming languages such as C, C++, or Python.
    • Understanding of microcontrollers and microprocessors.
    • Knowledge of hardware design and architecture.
    • Expertise in real-time operating systems (RTOS).
    • Familiarity with software development tools and debugging techniques.

  • What educational background is required for this career?
    A bachelor's degree in Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field is typically required. Many employers prefer candidates with a master’s degree or additional certifications, especially for advanced positions.

  • Is prior experience necessary to become an Embedded Systems Engineer?
    While some entry-level positions may accept fresh graduates, having internships or relevant projects can significantly enhance your employability. Practical experience helps demonstrate your skills and understanding of embedded systems.

  • What industries employ Embedded Systems Engineers?
    Embedded Systems Engineers are needed across various industries, including:

    • Consumer electronics
    • Automotive
    • Aerospace and defense
    • Industrial automation
    • Telecommunications
    • Medical devices

  • What are the job prospects for Embedded Systems Engineers in New York?
    The job market in New York for Embedded Systems Engineers is promising, driven by the growth of technology companies and innovation sectors. Demand is expected to remain strong, particularly in industries focusing on IoT, automation, and healthcare technology.

  • What is the typical salary range for an Embedded Systems Engineer in New York?
    Salaries can vary widely based on experience and specific skills. As of October 2023, the average salary for an Embedded Systems Engineer in New York ranges from $85,000 to over $130,000 annually, with high-level positions earning even more.

  • What certification options are available for Embedded Systems Engineers?
    Certifications can enhance your qualifications and may include:

    • Certified Embedded Systems Engineer (CESE)
    • Certifying courses from organizations like IEEE or CompTIA.
    • Specialized training in areas like IoT or specific programming languages.

  • How can I advance my career as an Embedded Systems Engineer?
    Career advancement can be achieved through:

    • Gaining specialized skills and certifications.
    • Taking on leadership roles in projects.
    • Networking with professionals in the field.
    • Continuing education through workshops or further studies.

  • What are common challenges faced in this career?
    Challenges may include:

    • Keeping pace with rapidly evolving technology.
    • Debugging complex systems that integrate hardware and software.
    • Managing project timelines and meeting deadlines under pressure.

  • What tools and technologies should I be familiar with?
    Familiarity with the following tools is beneficial:

    • Integrated development environments (IDEs) like Keil or Eclipse.
    • Hardware description languages (HDLs) like VHDL or Verilog.
    • Version control systems like Git.
    • Debuggers and simulators specific to embedded systems.