Find your next role as an Embedded Software Engineer in New Zealand
Real IT JobsBrowse available embedded software engineer jobs below or get in touch with us about any upcoming opportunities in Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch, and across New Zealand.
As IT employers and IT jobseekers increasingly recognize the critical importance of embedded systems in our connected world, these specialised roles offer exciting career prospects in the tech recruitment landscape.
Why choose Younity as your recruitment partner for Embedded Software Engineer roles?
At Younity, we understand that embedded software engineering is a highly specialised field that sits at the intersection of hardware and software development. Our experienced IT recruitment consultants have deep knowledge of the embedded systems landscape, from IoT devices and automotive systems to industrial automation and consumer electronics. We work closely with leading tech companies across New Zealand who are developing cutting-edge embedded solutions, and we understand exactly what they’re looking for in embedded software engineers.
Whether you’re an experienced firmware developer looking for your next challenge, or a software engineer wanting to transition into embedded systems, we provide personalised support throughout your job search. Our team takes the time to understand your technical background, career aspirations, and preferred working environment to match you with opportunities that align with your goals. We also provide guidance on technical interviews, portfolio development, and career progression in this rapidly evolving field.
What does an Embedded Software Engineer do in IT?
Embedded software engineers design, develop, and maintain software that runs on embedded systems – specialised computing devices that perform dedicated functions within larger mechanical or electrical systems. Unlike traditional software applications that run on general-purpose computers, embedded software operates directly on hardware with limited resources, requiring engineers to write highly efficient, reliable code.
Daily responsibilities typically include writing firmware in C, C++, or assembly language for microcontrollers and microprocessors, developing device drivers to interface with hardware components, and implementing real-time operating systems (RTOS) like FreeRTOS or Zephyr. Engineers work extensively with development boards, debuggers, and oscilloscopes to test and troubleshoot their code, ensuring it meets strict timing, memory, and power consumption requirements.
Modern embedded software engineers also work on IoT connectivity, implementing communication protocols such as Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Zigbee, or cellular connectivity to enable devices to connect to cloud platforms like AWS IoT, Azure IoT, or Google Cloud IoT. They collaborate closely with hardware engineers during the product development lifecycle, participate in code reviews, and ensure their software meets safety and regulatory standards, particularly in industries like automotive, medical devices, and industrial automation.
What’s it like to work in this discipline?
Working as an embedded software engineer offers a unique blend of low-level programming challenges and tangible, real-world impact. Unlike web or mobile development, embedded engineers see their code directly controlling physical devices – from smart home appliances and wearable fitness trackers to autonomous vehicles and industrial robots. This creates a highly satisfying work environment where technical achievements have immediate, visible results.
The field requires strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail, as embedded systems often have strict constraints on memory, processing power, and energy consumption. Engineers must think creatively to optimise code performance while maintaining reliability and safety standards. The work can be challenging when debugging hardware-software integration issues, but the satisfaction of solving complex technical problems makes it highly rewarding for those who enjoy deep technical work.
Career progression in embedded software engineering is excellent, with opportunities to specialise in areas like automotive embedded systems, IoT development, robotics, or safety-critical systems. Senior engineers often move into technical leadership roles, system architecture positions, or product management. The field offers strong job security due to the specialised nature of the skills and the growing demand for connected devices across all industries.
What qualifications or experience does this role benefit from?
Most embedded software engineer positions require a strong foundation in computer science, electrical engineering, or computer engineering.
A Bachelor’s degree in Electrical and Electronic Engineering from the University of Auckland provides excellent preparation, particularly courses like COMPSYS 303: Microcomputers and Embedded Systems and COMPSYS 723: Embedded Systems Design. AUT’s Bachelor of Engineering Honours with Software Engineering major also offers relevant embedded software development training.
Professional certifications can significantly enhance career prospects in this field. Industry-recognized certifications include ARM Cortex-M processor training, which covers the most widely used microcontroller architecture in embedded systems.
FreeRTOS training and certification is highly valued, as this real-time operating system is used extensively in commercial embedded products. Cloud platform certifications from AWS, Azure, or Google Cloud are increasingly important as embedded devices become more connected to cloud services.
Practical experience with embedded development tools is essential, including integrated development environments (IDEs) like Keil, IAR, or Eclipse-based toolchains. Familiarity with version control systems like Git, debugging tools such as JTAG debuggers, and hardware testing equipment like oscilloscopes and logic analyzers is highly valued by employers. Many successful embedded engineers also have hands-on experience with popular development boards like Arduino, Raspberry Pi, or STM32 Discovery kits.
Preparing a CV or Cover letter for an Embedded Software Engineer role
When preparing your CV for embedded software engineer positions, focus on demonstrating your technical expertise through specific examples of embedded projects you’ve worked on. Highlight the microcontrollers or processors you’ve programmed, the programming languages you’re proficient in (particularly C and C++), and any real-time operating systems you’ve used. Include details about the types of embedded systems you’ve developed, such as IoT devices, automotive components, or industrial control systems.
Your cover letter should demonstrate your understanding of the unique challenges in embedded software development, such as resource constraints, real-time requirements, and hardware-software integration. Discuss specific technical challenges you’ve overcome, such as optimizing code for memory-constrained environments, implementing communication protocols, or debugging complex timing issues. Mention any experience with industry standards or safety certifications relevant to the target industry, such as ISO 26262 for automotive or IEC 62304 for medical devices.
Be prepared to discuss your development methodology, including how you approach testing embedded software, your experience with continuous integration for embedded systems, and your familiarity with agile development practices adapted for hardware-software co-development. Employers value candidates who can articulate their problem-solving approach and demonstrate their ability to work effectively in cross-functional teams with hardware engineers, product managers, and quality assurance professionals.