How Much They Make Logo How Much They Make

How Much Do Firmware Developer Make?

How much do firmware developer make? Discover the average salary, base salary, and compensation for firmware developer in the development & it category. Learn about firmware developer pay per hour, per week, per month, and per annum with detailed salary ranges from $80,000 to $120,000.

Base Salary (avg)
$115,000
Per Hour
$55/hr
Avg Bonus
$10,000
Job Outlook
10.12%
Experience
3 yrs

How Much Do Firmware Developer Make? Complete Salary Guide

How much do firmware developer make? This is one of the most common questions in career planning. Firmware Developer in the Development & IT field can expect to earn an average salary of $115,000 per year, with entry-level positions starting at $80,000 and experienced professionals earning up to $120,000 annually.

When breaking down the average salary of firmware developer by time periods, firmware developer typically make around $9,583.333 per month and approximately $2,211.538 per week. The basic salary of firmware developer varies significantly based on experience level, location, and industry specialization. Entry-level firmware developer typically start with a base salary of $80,000, while mid-career professionals earn an average of $95,000, and senior-level roles can command salaries exceeding $120,000.

The salary landscape for firmware developer is influenced by several key factors including geographic location, years of experience, educational background, and specific industry demands. How much do firmware developer make in a week? On average, this translates to approximately $2,211.538 per week. How much do firmware developer make per annum? The annual salary range spans from $70,000 to $150,000, with the median salary sitting at $115,000. Additionally, many firmware developer receive bonuses averaging $10,000 annually, representing approximately 10.25% of their base salary.

How Much Do Firmware Developer Get Paid Per Annum? Firmware Developer Salary

Annual salary data for firmware developer across different experience levels, showing entry-level, mid-career, and experienced professional compensation ranges based on industry standards.

Entry Level Annual Salary

$80,000
Range: $70,000 - $90,000

Mid-Career Annual Salary

$95,000
Range: $90,000 - $120,000

Experienced Annual Salary

$120,000
Range: $90,000 - $150,000

How Much Do Firmware Developer Get Paid in a Month? Firmware Developer Monthly Salary

Monthly salary breakdowns for firmware developer at different career stages, providing practical budgeting insights and compensation expectations for financial planning.

Entry Level Monthly Salary

$6,667
per month

Mid-Career Monthly Salary

$7,917
per month

Experienced Monthly Salary

$10,000
per month

How Much Do Firmware Developer Get Paid in Different Locations?

Geographic salary variations for firmware developer across different cities and regions, including cost of living adjustments and regional market demand factors that impact compensation.

Austin
$95,000
Range: $70,000 - $115,000
Remote
$75,000
Range: $50,000 - $100,000
Seattle
$110,000
Range: $80,000 - $140,000
New York
$90,000
Range: $60,000 - $120,000
San Francisco
$120,000
Range: $90,000 - $150,000

Firmware Developer Salary Trends

Historical salary progression for firmware developer over the past years, showing year-over-year compensation growth and market trends in the industry.

Firmware Developer Salary Trends (2020 - 2025)

Bonus & Compensation Package

Additional compensation beyond base salary, including bonuses, commissions, and overtime opportunities that contribute to total annual earnings.

Bonus Percentage

10.25%

of annual salary

Bonuses for Firmware Developers are often based on performance metrics, project completion, innovation contributions, and company profitability or individual achievements.

Average Bonus

$10,000

annually

Commission

Firmware Developer roles generally focus on salary, with few offering commission or incentives. Bonuses may be available based on performance or project completion.

Overtime

Overtime pay for firmware developers varies by company; while some offer it, many tech firms often provide salary compensation without additional overtime benefits.

Employee Benefits Package

Comprehensive benefits and perks provided to employees, including health coverage, retirement plans, time off policies, and professional development opportunities.

Comprehensive Benefits

Typical benefits for a Firmware Developer include health insurance, 401(k) retirement plans, paid time off (PTO), flexible work hours, professional development opportunities, and performance bonuses.

Health Insurance
Paid Time Off
Retirement Plans
Development

Firmware Developer Job Overview

Comprehensive details about the firmware developer role including daily responsibilities, work environment, physical demands, and key tasks that define this career path.

About This Role

A Firmware Developer designs, writes, and tests software that controls hardware devices. They bridge the gap between hardware and software, ensuring efficient operation and functionality. Their role involves debugging, optimizing performance, and collaborating with cross-functional teams to create innovative solutions for embedded systems across various industries.

Primary Responsibilities

Designing and developing firmware, debugging and testing firmware, optimizing code for performance, collaborating with hardware engineers, writing documentation and specifications, maintaining existing firmware, implementing security features, conducting code reviews, troubleshooting issues in embedded systems, staying updated with industry trends.

Day-to-Day Tasks

A Firmware Developer typically writes and tests code, debugs software issues, collaborates with hardware engineers, reviews specifications, documents processes, and participates in team meetings to enhance product functionality.

Work Environment

Hybrid

Firmware Developers typically work in office environments, collaborating with teams, using computers, and focusing on coding and debugging tasks.

Physical Demands

Minimal

Firmware Developers typically work in office environments, requiring prolonged computer use, occasional collaboration with hardware teams, and may involve travel for testing or installation purposes.

Firmware Developer Requirements & Prerequisites

Essential qualifications and credentials needed to pursue a career as a firmware developer, including educational background, certifications, and experience requirements.

Education

Bachelor’s degree.

Field: Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, Software Engineering, Information Technology, Embedded Systems, Robotics, Mechatronics.

Experience

3 years

Employers seek Firmware Developers with strong programming skills in C/C++, embedded systems experience, problem-solving abilities, familiarity with hardware interfaces, and a background in real-time operating systems.

Certifications

Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or related field, Certified Embedded Systems Engineer (CESE), Certified Software Development Professional (CSDP), Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP), ARM Accredited Engineer, Microsoft Certified: Azure Developer Associate, CompTIA Security+, Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA)

Required Skills

C programming, Embedded systems knowledge, Debugging skills, Hardware interfacing, Real-time operating systems (RTOS), Version control systems, Problem-solving abilities, Communication skills.

Technical Skills

C ProgrammingEmbedded SystemsHardware InterfacingReal-Time Operating SystemsDebugging TechniquesVersion Control (Git)Software Development Life Cycle (SDLC)Microcontroller Programming

Soft Skills

Problem SolvingTeam CollaborationCommunicationAdaptabilityAttention to DetailTime Management

Firmware Developer Career Path

Professional progression opportunities for firmware developer from entry-level to senior management, including typical career advancement timeline and role evolution.

Entry Level

Positions:

Embedded Software Engineer, Junior Firmware Engineer, Software Development Intern

Early-career Firmware Developers design, code, and test software that controls hardware devices, ensuring functionality and performance while collaborating with engineering teams to troubleshoot issues.

Mid-Career

Positions:

Embedded Software Engineer, Hardware Engineer, Systems Software Engineer

Mid-career Firmware Developers design, develop, and maintain embedded systems software, troubleshoot issues, collaborate with hardware teams, optimize performance, and mentor junior developers in coding practices.

Senior Management

Positions:

Firmware Engineering Manager, Senior Firmware Architect, Director of Firmware Development

Senior firmware developers oversee design, implementation, and optimization of embedded systems, lead teams, ensure project alignment with business goals, and mentor junior engineers for skill development.

Career Progression Timeline

Timeline: 5 years

A Firmware Developer typically advances from junior roles to senior positions, often progressing to lead developer or engineering manager, with opportunities in specialized areas like embedded systems. Continuous learning and experience enhance their career trajectory.

Firmware Developer Industry & Growth

Market outlook and growth prospects for firmware developer, including industry trends, job market demand, and factors influencing career opportunities and advancement.

Job Outlook

10.12% Growth

Faster than average

Projected: 2024–2034

Industry Trends

Increased demand for IoT (Internet of Things) devices, growing emphasis on cybersecurity in firmware development, and the rise of AI and machine learning integration in embedded systems.

Growth Factors

Rising IoT devices, increased automation, demand for smart technology, cybersecurity needs, and the growth of embedded systems are driving the need for Firmware Developers.

Future Opportunities

Edge computing, IoT security, AI integration, automotive software, wearable technology, smart home devices, and blockchain applications are emerging niches for Firmware Developers.

Firmware Developer Related Professions

Alternative career paths and similar roles for firmware developer, including career transitions, related positions, and advancement opportunities within the field.

Similar Roles

Embedded Systems EngineerSoftware EngineerHardware EngineerSystems Architect

Career Alternatives

Embedded Systems EngineerSoftware ArchitectProduct ManagerQuality Assurance EngineerTechnical Consultant

Upgrade Paths

Lead Firmware EngineerFirmware ArchitectTechnical Manager

Related Entry Roles

Junior Firmware EngineerEmbedded Systems InternSoftware Development Technician

Firmware Developer Skills & Development

Essential skills and professional development resources for firmware developer, including technical abilities, soft skills, recommended courses, and ongoing learning opportunities.

Technical Skills

CC++Embedded SystemsReal-Time Operating Systems (RTOS)MicrocontrollersDebugging ToolsVersion Control (Git)Hardware Interface Protocols

Soft Skills Needed

Problem SolvingCommunicationTeam CollaborationAdaptabilityAttention to Detail

Recommended Certifications

Certified Embedded Systems EngineerCertified Firmware DeveloperEmbedded Software Development Certificate

Recommended Courses

Embedded Systems - Shape the WorldMastering Microcontroller with Embedded Driver DevelopmentFirmware Development for Embedded Systems

Development Resources

UdacityedXPluralsightEmbedded.com

Training Timeline

6-12months

Estimated training time

Frequently Asked Questions About Firmware Developer Salary

Common questions and answers about pursuing a career as a firmware developer, covering qualifications, salary expectations, career prospects, and practical career guidance.

What qualifications are needed to become a firmware developer?

A degree in computer science, electrical engineering, or a related field, along with proficiency in programming languages like C and C++.

What is the average salary of a firmware developer?

The average salary ranges from $80,000 to $120,000 per year, depending on experience and location.

What skills are essential for a firmware developer?

Key skills include embedded systems knowledge, debugging capabilities, and familiarity with hardware interfaces.

Is prior experience required to become a firmware developer?

While entry-level positions may be available, most employers prefer candidates with some relevant experience or internships.

Are there certifications that can enhance my career as a firmware developer?

Yes, certifications such as Certified Embedded Systems Engineer (CESE) can improve job prospects and credibility.

How Much Others Make?

Explore salary data for other professions to compare compensation across different career paths and industries.

Important Disclaimer

Salary information provided on this website is for general informational purposes only. Actual salaries may vary based on location, experience, education, industry, company size, and other factors. We strive to provide accurate data, but cannot guarantee the completeness or accuracy of all information. Please verify with official sources before making career decisions.