Solutions Architect vs Embedded Systems Engineer: Which Pays More?
Side-by-side salary comparison by city, experience level, and career growth outlook. Data reflects current market rates.
Solutions Architect
Design technical solutions to meet customer business requirements.
Embedded Systems Engineer
Develop firmware and software for embedded hardware and IoT devices.
Embedded Systems Engineer earns more on average — the national median is $19,400/year (17%) higher than a Solutions Architect. However, salaries vary significantly by city, employer, and experience level — see the city-by-city breakdown below.
Solutions Architect vs Embedded Systems Engineer — Salary by City
National median figures in USD across top cities.
| City | Solutions Architect | Embedded Systems Engineer | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Francisco, CA | $166,946 | $202,193 | Solutions $35,247 |
| New York, NY | $142,757 | $161,501 | Solutions $18,744 |
| Seattle, WA | $165,593 | $194,146 | Solutions $28,553 |
| Austin, TX | $130,504 | $153,569 | Solutions $23,065 |
| Chicago, IL | $128,220 | $147,632 | Solutions $19,412 |
| Boston, MA | $149,219 | $180,677 | Solutions $31,458 |
| London, UK | £88,896 | £107,963 | Solutions $19,067 |
| Toronto, Canada | CA$151,769 | CA$182,205 | Solutions $30,436 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a Solutions Architect or Embedded Systems Engineer earn more?+
A Embedded Systems Engineer earns more on average. The national median salary for a Solutions Architect is $116,580/year, compared to $135,980/year for a Embedded Systems Engineer — a difference of $19,400 (17%).
Which has better career growth — Solutions Architect or Embedded Systems Engineer?+
Solutions Architect roles are growing at 24% YoY while Embedded Systems Engineer demand is growing at 12% YoY. Solutions Architect has stronger near-term demand growth.
Can you switch from Solutions Architect to Embedded Systems Engineer?+
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 — Solutions Architect or Embedded Systems Engineer?+
Embedded Systems Engineer has a lower AI automation risk (30% vs 30%). Based on Oxford Martin School and McKinsey 2023 analysis.