TechnologyOfficial Payroll Survey · 99/1003–5 years

3–5 Years Experience Embedded Systems Engineer Salary in San Francisco

2026 · Professionals with 3–5 years building toward senior-level expertise.

$176,354/yr

Typical range: $148,137 $234,266

P25–P50 · BLS OEWS employer payroll data

Embedded Systems Engineer Salary Progression in San Francisco

From entry-level through staff — based on BLS OEWS percentile data

Experience LevelYearsPercentileAnnual SalaryMonthlyvs Entry
Entry0 yrs0 yrs$126,677$10,556
Junior2 yrs2 yrs$156,483$13,040+24%
Mid-LevelThis page4 yrs4 yrs$176,354$14,696+39%
Senior6 yrs6 yrs$204,173$17,014+61%
Staff10 yrs10 yrs$275,708$22,976+118%
Principal14 yrs14 yrs$345,752$28,813+173%
Distinguished18 yrs18 yrs$363,264$30,272+187%
Current Salary
$176,354
3–5 Years Experience · 3–5 years
Hourly: $85/hr
Next Level Target
$204,173
Senior · 6
+$28Kpotential uplift
Career Opportunity
45/100
Below Average
+12% demand · Low AI risk

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the 3–5 years experience Embedded Systems Engineer salary in San Francisco, CA?

3–5 Years Experience Embedded Systems Engineers in San Francisco, CA earn approximately $176K per year (2026). This corresponds to the P25–P50 range of BLS OEWS employer payroll data.

How much does a 3–5 years experience Embedded Systems Engineer make per hour in San Francisco, CA?

Based on $176K annually, the hourly rate is approximately $85/hr (2,080-hour work year).

How do I get from 3–5 years experience to senior Embedded Systems Engineer in San Francisco, CA?

The typical progression takes 2–4 years with consistent skill development, project leadership, and strategic job moves. A senior Embedded Systems Engineer in San Francisco, CA earns $234K–$288K/yr.