Associate Embedded Systems Engineer

About This Role

Qualcomm is hiring Associate Embedded Systems Engineers to develop firmware and software for Snapdragon chipsets powering smartphones, automotive systems, IoT devices, and XR headsets. You will work at the intersection of hardware and software, writing low-level code that runs directly on silicon deployed in billions of devices annually.

Job Overview

• Job Title: Associate Embedded Systems Engineer
• Company: Qualcomm
• Location: San Diego, CA / Santa Clara, CA / Austin, TX / Raleigh, NC / Boxborough, MA
• Job Type: Full-time
• Experience Level: Entry-level (0–2 years)
• Salary Range: $36–$50/hr
• Posted Date: 2026-06-06
• Application Deadline: 2026-07-06

Role Context

Qualcomm's embedded teams work on bootloaders, RTOS drivers, modem firmware, and power management software. Associate engineers are paired with senior engineers and work on well-scoped subsystem tasks in their first year. The role requires comfort with hardware documentation and debugging embedded systems at the register level.

Key Responsibilities

• Write and debug firmware in C and C++ for Snapdragon-based SoC platforms
• Develop and maintain device drivers for peripherals including cameras, displays, and connectivity modules
• Use JTAG debuggers, logic analyzers, and serial consoles to trace embedded system behavior
• Analyze hardware reference manuals and implement software to match specifications
• Write and execute unit tests and integration tests for firmware modules
• Collaborate with hardware validation teams to diagnose board-bring-up issues

Requirements & Skills

• Bachelor's or Master's in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or Computer Science
• Strong C and C++ programming skills — pointers, memory layout, bitwise operations
• Familiarity with RTOS concepts (scheduling, IPC, memory management)
• Understanding of serial protocols — UART, SPI, I2C, PCIe
• Coursework or project experience with embedded systems or microcontrollers

Benefits & Work Conditions

• $36–$50/hr with Qualcomm RSUs and annual bonus
• Onsite at Qualcomm labs with hardware development equipment
• Top-tier health, dental, and vision insurance from day one
• Annual education stipend and technical conference support
• 401(k) with Qualcomm match and generous PTO

Who Should Apply

Graduates with a strong hardware background who want to write software that runs directly on silicon. Ideal for candidates who are comfortable reading datasheets, working with oscilloscopes, and debugging at the register level.

About the Company

Qualcomm is the world's leading wireless technology company, designing the Snapdragon SoCs found in the majority of premium Android devices. Its chips also power automotive ADAS systems, XR headsets, and 5G infrastructure equipment globally.

How to Apply

Apply through Qualcomm Careers. Search "Associate Embedded" or "Firmware Engineer entry level." The process includes a C programming test and technical interview covering embedded systems, memory, and debugging.