Discover the key Subject Required for Embedded SW Engineer jobs. Learn essential topics like C, RTOS, Linux, and microcontrollers for a successful career.
A few months ago, I found myself sitting late at night, laptop open, staring at a job portal.
After spending years in my current company, I felt ready for a new challenge — a better role, a better project, and a fresh environment.
But as I started reading job descriptions, one thing became very clear — every recruiter asked for core subjects required for embedded SW like C, RTOS, microcontrollers, and Linux.
That’s when I realized:
“If I want to switch successfully, I need to strengthen the foundation — not just years of experience, but the knowledge that really matters.”
So, I decided to revisit and master every important subject required for embedded SW engineer roles. Here’s what I learned and how it changed my approach to career growth.
Introduction
If you are thinking about starting your career as an Embedded Software Engineer, you might be wondering — “What subjects should I study?” or “Where do I even begin?”
Don’t worry! In this beginner-friendly guide, we’ll walk through all the important subjects required for embedded SW (Software) jobs, step by step — so you can build a strong foundation and land your dream role confidently.
What Is an Embedded Software Engineer?
An Embedded Software Engineer is someone who designs, develops, and programs software that runs on hardware devices — like microcontrollers, sensors, automotive systems, medical devices, or IoT gadgets.
In simple terms, embedded engineers make hardware come alive through software.
To get there, you’ll need to master some core subjects required for embedded SW development.
Core Subject Required for Embedded SW Engineer Job
1. C Programming Language
C is the heart of embedded systems.
It helps you write efficient, low-level code to directly interact with hardware.
Learn about:
- Variables, data types, pointers, and arrays
- Memory management (stack, heap, static)
- Bitwise operations
- Interrupt handling and ISR (Interrupt Service Routine)
Tip: Start with C before jumping into C++ or advanced languages.
2. C++ Programming (Object-Oriented Concepts)
Modern embedded systems use C++ for scalability and abstraction.
Key concepts include:
- Classes, objects, inheritance, polymorphism
- Constructors and destructors
- Templates and STL (Standard Template Library)
- RAII and memory-safe programming
Many automotive and IoT companies prefer engineers with both C and C++ knowledge.
3. Microcontroller and Microprocessor Fundamentals
You can’t be an embedded engineer without understanding the brain of embedded systems — microcontrollers (like ARM, STM32, Atmega, ESP32).
Topics to cover:
- Architecture and instruction set
- GPIO, Timers, UART, SPI, I2C, ADC, PWM
- Memory mapping and registers
- Peripheral interfacing
Try experimenting with Arduino or STM32 boards to get hands-on experience.
4. Embedded Operating Systems (RTOS)
When you work on complex devices, you’ll use Real-Time Operating Systems (RTOS) such as FreeRTOS or QNX.
Learning RTOS helps you understand how embedded systems handle multiple tasks efficiently.
You’ll need to study:
- Task scheduling and priorities
- Inter-task communication
- Synchronization (mutex, semaphore)
- Interrupt latency and real-time behavior
If you want to prepare for interviews, check out this detailed guide on 100 FreeRTOS Interview Questions — it’s a great way to strengthen your practical understanding and boost your confidence.
Understanding RTOS makes you stand out for automotive, robotics, and IoT roles.
5. Digital Electronics and Computer Architecture
A solid understanding of electronics helps you debug and design hardware-aware software.
Study:
- Logic gates, flip-flops, multiplexers, ADC/DAC
- Memory hierarchy (RAM, ROM, cache)
- Instruction cycles and bus systems
- CPU registers and pipelining
This subject bridges your software skills with hardware understanding.
6. Communication Protocols
Devices communicate through protocols, and knowing them is essential.
Important ones:
- UART, SPI, I2C – for board-level communication
- CAN, LIN, Ethernet – used in automotive
- Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, MQTT – used in IoT
Understanding these makes you capable of integrating sensors and peripherals effectively.
7. Linux and Embedded Linux
Most real-world embedded systems run on Linux.
Learn:
- Shell scripting
- Device drivers
- File system hierarchy
- Cross-compilation and Makefiles
Learning Embedded Linux helps you work on advanced boards like BeagleBone Black or Raspberry Pi.
8. Debugging and Testing Tools
Every embedded engineer should know how to debug hardware and software issues.
Get comfortable with:
- GDB (GNU Debugger)
- Logic analyzers, oscilloscopes
- JTAG and SWD debugging
- Unit testing frameworks (Google Test, Parasoft)
Debugging is where true problem-solving skills shine.
9. Version Control and Build Systems
Companies expect you to use Git, CMake, or Makefiles for code management and building projects.
Learn how to:
- Create branches, commit, and merge in Git
- Write Makefiles for embedded projects
- Automate builds using Jenkins or CI/CD tools
These skills make your workflow professional and efficient.
10. Basic Knowledge of Hardware
Even if you’re a software person, basic electronics skills help a lot.
Understand:
- Circuit diagrams and schematics
- Sensors and actuators
- Power supply and voltage levels
- Soldering and breadboard testing
Being hands-on with hardware builds your confidence in debugging and integration.
Bonus Subjects to Stand Out
If you want to go beyond basics, explore:
- Python (for automation and testing)
- MATLAB/Simulink (for automotive systems)
- AI/ML in Embedded Systems
- Cybersecurity for Embedded Devices
Conclusion: Your Roadmap to Success
Getting an Embedded Software Engineer job takes patience and continuous learning.
Start with the core subjects required for embedded SW like C, microcontrollers, and RTOS — then gradually build on advanced topics like Linux, communication protocols, and debugging tools.
Remember: Real growth happens when you apply what you learn.
Build small projects, test your code on real hardware, and keep exploring new technologies.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What are the main subjects required for embedded SW engineer jobs?
The main subjects required for embedded SW jobs include C programming, C++, microcontroller basics, embedded operating systems (RTOS), digital electronics, communication protocols (UART, SPI, I2C, CAN), Linux, and debugging tools.
2. Do I need to be from an electronics background to get an embedded software job?
Not necessarily! Even if you are from a computer science background, you can become an embedded engineer. Just make sure you learn key subjects required for embedded SW such as microcontrollers, C programming, and basic electronics.
3. Is C programming still important for embedded software engineers?
Absolutely yes! C is the most essential subject required for embedded SW. It allows you to write efficient and hardware-level programs. Most embedded systems still rely heavily on C for performance and reliability.
4. Should I learn C++ for embedded systems
Yes. After mastering C, learning C++ will help you handle complex projects and real-time applications efficiently. Many industries now use modern C++ in embedded systems for scalability and clean code design.
5. Do I need to learn RTOS (Real-Time Operating System)?
Yes, understanding RTOS is highly recommended. It teaches how tasks are scheduled and executed in real-time environments, which is an important subject required for embedded SW engineers working on automotive or industrial systems.
6. Which microcontroller should beginners start with?
Beginners can start with easy-to-learn boards like Arduino or ESP32, then move to STM32 or ARM Cortex-M controllers. This helps you apply the subjects required for embedded SW practically through small projects.
7. Is Linux important for embedded software development?
Yes. Knowing Linux or Embedded Linux is a major advantage. It teaches you about file systems, device drivers, and cross-compilation — all key topics in subjects required for embedded SW.
8. What tools should an embedded software engineer learn?
You should learn tools like GDB for debugging, Git for version control, Makefiles/CMake for builds, and oscilloscopes or logic analyzers for testing hardware signals.
9. Can I get an embedded job without hardware knowledge?
You can start with a focus on software, but having basic hardware understanding (like reading circuit diagrams or connecting sensors) strengthens your profile. Hardware basics are an underrated but useful subject required for embedded SW engineers.
10. What projects should I build to get an embedded software job?
Start with simple ones like:
- LED control via GPIO
- Sensor reading with I2C
- Real-time data display on OLED
- Small RTOS-based multitasking project
These projects let you apply the subjects required for embedded SW practically and build a strong portfolio.
Mr. Raj Kumar is a highly experienced Technical Content Engineer with 7 years of dedicated expertise in the intricate field of embedded systems. At Embedded Prep, Raj is at the forefront of creating and curating high-quality technical content designed to educate and empower aspiring and seasoned professionals in the embedded domain.
Throughout his career, Raj has honed a unique skill set that bridges the gap between deep technical understanding and effective communication. His work encompasses a wide range of educational materials, including in-depth tutorials, practical guides, course modules, and insightful articles focused on embedded hardware and software solutions. He possesses a strong grasp of embedded architectures, microcontrollers, real-time operating systems (RTOS), firmware development, and various communication protocols relevant to the embedded industry.
Raj is adept at collaborating closely with subject matter experts, engineers, and instructional designers to ensure the accuracy, completeness, and pedagogical effectiveness of the content. His meticulous attention to detail and commitment to clarity are instrumental in transforming complex embedded concepts into easily digestible and engaging learning experiences. At Embedded Prep, he plays a crucial role in building a robust knowledge base that helps learners master the complexities of embedded technologies.
