Example of an Embedded Systems Job Description (With FAQs)
By Indeed Editorial Team
Updated 13 August 2022
Published 6 December 2021
The Indeed Editorial Team comprises a diverse and talented team of writers, researchers and subject matter experts equipped with Indeed's data and insights to deliver useful tips to help guide your career journey.
Embedded systems are sophisticated technologies in a lot of devices that assure their reliability and functions. If you want to pursue a career as an embedded systems engineer, it may demand a considerable understanding of many parts of engineering, software and technology, therefore it is critical to know the requirements. Learning more about embedded systems can help you decide if you want to pursue this area as a career. In this article, we discuss what embedded systems are, learn how to become an embedded systems engineer and review a sample embedded systems job description.
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Embedded Systems Job Description
An embedded systems job description may differ depending on the field of work. Some core responsibilities may remain common across all fields. Embedded systems engineers may employ a variety of software tools to assess a system's performance and optimise its output. Their responsibilities may also include:
Conducting research on software and hardware to improve systems and execute upgrades
Monitoring of documentation during the entire process of developing an efficient embedded system
Conducting risk analysis and solution development
Evaluating a system and its operations' reliabilities
Recognising and resolving systemic issues to enhance performance
Providing technical support to colleagues
What Is An Embedded System?
An embedded system is a microprocessor-based hardware system found in computers and other electronic devices that use specialised software to safely and functionally complete a task. This system is necessary for technology to work effectively and for a real-time user to utilise the gadget or rely on it to complete certain activities. For instance, a car's embedded system can automatically deploy airbags and activate anti-lock brakes in case of an emergency.
What Is An Embedded Systems Engineer?
Embedded systems engineers may handle the design, development, testing and maintenance of embedded systems. These systems are usually in vehicles, smartphones and other technological equipment. An embedded systems engineer may follow these tips to design or modify an embedded system effectively:
Define the embedded system's purpose. This may involve conducting research on the system requirements for a particular sector and speaking with corporate executives to have a better understanding of the technology the organisation wants to build.
Develop a plan. A development plan generally includes a graphic representation of the system's architecture and how the engineer can verify that it works with a device or application. This can assist an engineer in anticipating difficulties in a design and developing viable solutions if they materialise.
Develop and design the system. An embedded systems engineer usually documents the whole process of developing a system for reference if an embedded system requires additional development to improve aspects, such as speed and system load. Their aim is to establish an efficient embedded system or to improve an existing embedded system on a device.
Evaluate and approve system processes. To determine if a system achieves its objectives and functions efficiently, an engineer does performance testing on it using performance testing tools. This may help them determine if the system complies with operational requirements or requires enhancements to do so, at which point they may conclude its development with corporate leaders or clients.
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How To Become An Embedded Systems Engineer
If you are considering a career as an embedded systems engineer, you can consider the following steps:
1. Obtain the necessary education
University education may equip you with the skills necessary to comprehend embedded systems and build them. You may consider engineering, computer science, or information technology as possible majors. While some hiring managers prefer candidates with just a bachelor's degree, others may need further education, such as a master's degree. Consider the following educational paths if you are interested in a career as an embedded systems engineer:
Associate degree: This degree may familiarise you with fundamental computer operations and software engineering. An associate degree typically takes between one and two years to complete.
Bachelor's degree: A bachelor's degree is usually essential for entry-level positions in the software industry. Certain degree programmes may introduce you to computer programming languages and the elements of the development of hardware and software.
Master's degree: Depending on the hiring manager and the amount of expertise required for a particular position, a master's degree can supplement your training and expand your knowledge of software engineering. A master's degree programme typically lasts two or three years.
Related: What Does an IT Engineer Do? (With 6 Steps for Becoming One)
2. Gain experience through training
Internships are usually an effective option if you want to become an embedded systems engineer. Internships can provide a practical learning experience and an opportunity to network in the business. Sometimes, an internship can lead to part-time or full-time employment. Internships are usually necessary for students studying in many bachelor's degree programmes, or you can obtain one on your own after graduation. If you decide to attend a programming boot camp, you may likely gain a lot of direct experience, minimising the benefits of an internship considerably. Anyone can undertake an internship to obtain further expertise.
3. Choose a speciality
While completing your studies and beginning your profession, it may be important for you to choose the field of embedded systems engineering on which you wish to focus your attention. Concentrating your efforts on more specialised areas of software engineering may make it simpler to improve your career. While in school or attending boot camps, you may experiment with many aspects of software engineering to determine which ones you enjoy the most.
4. Enhance your abilities
After you have completed your schooling, you may satisfy the minimum qualifications for an embedded systems engineer position. Yet, many graduates may discover that it can be beneficial to further develop their talents to obtain the type of work they enjoy. There are several methods for both novice and expert engineers to develop their abilities.
Obtaining several certifications can demonstrate your technical expertise in a variety of fields. Attending conferences is another approach to improve your abilities. Attending conferences pertaining to your area of specialisation may allow you to stay informed about new products and industry trends.
Related: 50 Software Engineer Interview Questions (With Answers)
Embedded Systems Engineer FAQ
Here are some frequently asked questions about embedded systems engineers and their roles:
What are the skills necessary for this role?
It can be vital for embedded systems engineers to possess a variety of soft and hard skills to perform excellently in their roles. Tertiary education and certificates can aid in the development of these specialised talents. Certain industries may require candidates to show prior experience in the field to demonstrate skill development. Several examples of soft skills that an embedded systems engineer can possess may include:
Analytical thinking
Problem-solving
Teamwork
Time management
Consider the following hard skills required of an embedded systems engineer:
Knowledge of technological gadgets and software tools
Familiarity with internet-based technology
Knowledge of all components of computer architecture, including microprocessors and hardware
Proficiency in a variety of computer programming languages
Where Do Embedded Systems Engineers Work?
Engineers that specialise in embedded systems may work in a range of sectors that develop, use and market technology or applications. Certain companies may need candidates to have expertise or knowledge in a certain area to have a better understanding of the tasks they receive in their new employment. Systems engineers usually work in the following industries:
Mobile application development
Aerospace
Automotive
Construction
Information technology
Healthcare
Example Of An Embedded System Job Description
Here is an example of a job listing for an embedded systems engineer, including the job duties and required qualifications:
Telfor's systems engineering group is looking for an experienced embedded systems engineer to help with the development of a new smartphone software. It is important for the candidate to have an aptitude for learning, an exceptional ability to pay attention to detail, and competence in computer programming languages such as C and C++. A master's degree in computer science is helpful, but not necessary for this position. As an embedded systems engineer, you are to be responsible for the following:
Developing, designing, and testing embedded systems to ensure the application's efficiency
Analysing systems with the use of algorithms to diagnose and remove issues
Communicating with other team members to ensure they complete projects on time and within budget
Using C and C++ to generate dependable and high-quality code
Developing firmware for microcontrollers used in phone processors
Qualifications
Bachelor's degree in computer science or a related field
At least five years of experience working in software development or a related field
Understanding of computer architecture, programming languages and interface technology
Please note that none of the companies, institutions or organisations mentioned in this article are associated with Indeed.
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