well, you have a specialization, low level/embedded systems programming

there is work out there, just go back to what you can get easier with your resume now and build out your transition

it just may take a lot longer to get the more interesting low level stuff in the bag so just spend a bit of time on it when you are off duty

i have been doing that with nostr, even though it has been a big part of my main gig, making useful tools builds reputation and stuff you can point to when the interview needs some spice

reality is that even though most jobs ask for oodles of experience, reality is they accept anyone with adjacent skills