I read an article on this recently.
They were enthusing about how the runtime JVM (Java Virtual Machine) needs "only" 56K of code!!!
(didn't mention how much RAM).

The thing is, "Embedded System" covers a very wide spectrum - from tiny 4-bit, single-chip devices in washing machine controllers way up to 32- or even 64-bit SPARC, ARM, PowerPC, etc performing major subsystem functions in the likes of GSM infrastructure equipment with multi-megabytes of code & data.

Thus it is somewhat meaningless to talk in such broad terms as just "embedded work"
As ever, you need to consider all your requirements & constraints and determine what is appropriate to your particular application.