AI Embedded Systems Developer.

You must fit ML models into kilobytes of memory, execute inference within millisecond latency budgets, and minimize power consumption for battery-operated devices. Standard ML frameworks do not run on microcontrollers. You need to understand both ML model optimization and embedded systems constraints: memory layouts, fixed-point arithmetic, DMA, and interrupt-driven architectures.

TensorFlow Lite Micro, ONNX Runtime for edge, and vendor-specific inference engines (STM32 AI, NXP eIQ) are common frameworks. Development involves cross-compilation, hardware-in-the-loop testing, and profiling tools specific to target hardware. Understanding of CMSIS-NN for ARM Cortex-M processors and RISC-V vector extensions for AI is increasingly relevant.

Ask about equity structure, vesting schedule, annual bonus targets, 401(k) match, health insurance premiums, PTO policy, and remote flexibility. Equity at IoT and edge AI companies adds $15,000 to $55,000 annually. In San Antonio's market, these extras can add $31,000 or more on top of the base salary.

Compensation reflects the specialized skill of deploying ML models on resource-constrained hardware. Developers who can optimize neural networks for microcontrollers, DSPs, and edge accelerators while meeting real-time and power constraints earn premiums. Experience with TinyML, model quantization for embedded targets, and RTOS integration is highly valued. In San Antonio, these factors can push compensation from the 25th percentile of $94,000 to the 75th percentile of $157,000 or beyond.

San Antonio has a major military presence with Joint Base San Antonio and a growing cybersecurity hub. The city is home to USAA headquarters and a cluster of healthcare systems. For AI Embedded Systems Developers specifically, the median salary of $124,000 reflects that demand.

Remote work has compressed geographic salary premiums for AI Embedded Systems Developers. Some San Antonio employers offer location adjusted pay, while others maintain local rates to attract in office talent. In San Antonio's moderate cost market, remote and local salaries are converging. The $94,000 to $157,000 range reflects both arrangements.

San Antonio has a major military presence with Joint Base San Antonio and a growing cybersecurity hub. The city is home to USAA headquarters and a cluster of healthcare systems. For AI Embedded Systems Developers specifically, compensation reflects the specialized skill of deploying ml models on resource-constrained hardware, which signals sustained demand. The current compensation range of $94,000 to $157,000 reflects a market that is competing for talent.