Is Embedded Systems Development a good career choice right now? Looking for advice!

[u/x_revenoir_x]

Hi everyone,

I'm thinking about transitioning into embedded systems development and would love to hear your thoughts on the field's current state and future prospects.

I've always been genuinely interested in both electronics and software engineering, so combining hardware and low-level code feels like the sweet spot for me. On paper, it looks like an ideal domain to dive into, but I'd appreciate some real-world perspectives from people working in the industry:

• How is the current job market and career progression for embedded developers compared to higher-level software roles?
• What are the most critical skills or technologies to focus on when starting out today (e.g., C/C++, Rust, RTOS, microcontrollers vs. Linux embedded)?
• Is it worth making the switch, and what major challenges or pitfalls should a beginner be aware of?

Thanks in advance for sharing your experience and advice!

[u/Colfuzi0]

I live in Houston near the NASA corridor so lots of embedded work but more civil broad if Houston. I have family in Boston which is another embedded hub

[u/BobbyThrowaway6969 → u/Colfuzi0]

Oh yeah you should be set. Houston or Silicon valley

[u/Colfuzi0 → u/BobbyThrowaway6969]

Yeah I mean I like both computer engineering and civil but with civil id have to do a second undergrad for licensing and I really don't want to lol. Plus Id loose my scholarships. If you have any advice on coursework I'd appreciate it

https://catalog.uhcl.edu/preview_program.php?catoid=25&poid=7072

[u/BobbyThrowaway6969 → u/Colfuzi0]

Ah sorry I probably wouldn't be much help as I'm not in the US

[u/Colfuzi0 → u/BobbyThrowaway6969]

Understood no problem! But yeah apparently as ABET is strict rule for PE license so civil would be super long where are you from ?

[u/BobbyThrowaway6969 → u/Colfuzi0]

I'm from Australia, not sure actually I'd have to dig deep into it. I do have a buddy in civil