An embedded engineer needs a blend of hardware and software skills. First and foremost, a solid understanding of microcontrollers, microprocessors, and various hardware components is essential. Embedded engineers must be able to read and design circuit schematics, as well as work with communication protocols like I2C, SPI, and UART.

On the software side, proficiency in programming languages such as C and C++ is critical, as they are the most commonly used languages in embedded systems. Engineers should also be familiar with assembly language and real-time operating systems (RTOS) like FreeRTOS or Zephyr. Knowledge of debugging tools, such as JTAG or GDB, is necessary for troubleshooting and optimizing system performance.

Furthermore, embedded engineers must understand low-level device drivers and how to interface hardware with software. Problem-solving skills and attention to detail are vital, given the complexity and resource constraints typical in embedded systems. Additionally, understanding power management and memory optimization is crucial, as embedded systems often run on limited resources.

To build expertise in this field, pursuing an embedded programming certification can be a valuable step in showcasing your knowledge and skills to potential employers.