Embedded Systems Engineer vs Security Analyst: Which Pays More?
Side-by-side salary comparison by city, experience level, and career growth outlook. Data reflects current market rates.
Embedded Systems Engineer
Develop firmware and software for embedded hardware and IoT devices.
Security Analyst
Monitor, detect, and respond to security incidents and threats.
Embedded Systems Engineer earns more on average — the national median is $46,425/year (52%) higher than a Security Analyst. However, salaries vary significantly by city, employer, and experience level — see the city-by-city breakdown below.
Embedded Systems Engineer vs Security Analyst — Salary by City
National median figures in USD across top cities.
| City | Embedded Systems Engineer | Security Analyst | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Francisco, CA | $202,193 | $133,466 | Embedded +$68,727 |
| New York, NY | $161,501 | $109,717 | Embedded +$51,784 |
| Seattle, WA | $194,146 | $129,188 | Embedded +$64,958 |
| Austin, TX | $153,569 | $98,064 | Embedded +$55,505 |
| Chicago, IL | $147,632 | $98,234 | Embedded +$49,398 |
| Boston, MA | $180,677 | $114,557 | Embedded +$66,120 |
| London, UK | £107,963 | £70,022 | Embedded +$37,941 |
| Toronto, Canada | CA$182,205 | CA$118,720 | Embedded +$63,485 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a Embedded Systems Engineer or Security Analyst earn more?+
A Embedded Systems Engineer earns more on average. The national median salary for a Embedded Systems Engineer is $135,980/year, compared to $89,555/year for a Security Analyst — a difference of $46,425 (52%).
Which has better career growth — Embedded Systems Engineer or Security Analyst?+
Embedded Systems Engineer roles are growing at 12% YoY while Security Analyst demand is growing at 32% YoY. Security Analyst has stronger near-term demand growth.
Can you switch from Embedded Systems Engineer to Security Analyst?+
Yes. Many professionals transition between these roles, especially since both are in the same category. Shared skills include: analytical thinking, communication, and industry knowledge.
Which is harder to automate — Embedded Systems Engineer or Security Analyst?+
Security Analyst has a lower AI automation risk (30% vs 30%). Based on Oxford Martin School and McKinsey 2023 analysis.