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Contract Embedded Software Engineer Jobs in Virginia

Software/Embedded Systems Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

$150.30K - $197.70K/yr

This role involves overseeing the management, auditing, and validation of embedded software rather than hands-on coding. You will work closely with hardware engineers to evaluate the impact of ...

Overview SCCI is currently seeking an Embedded Software Design Engineer to join our team! In this position you will be responsible for developing weapon control system code for multiple projects ...

Satellite Systems Software Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$177.10K - $209.90K/yr

This position is for a Satellite Systems Software Engineer for a large, multi-year contract ... Analyze designs and software engineering practices that is integrated into embedded devices and ...

Satellite Systems Software Engineer

Chantilly, VA

$177.10K - $209.90K/yr

This position is for a Satellite Systems Software Engineer for a large, multi-year contract ... Analyzes, monitors and improves the efficiency and stability of embedded software systems.

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Contract Embedded Software Engineer information

See Virginia salary details

$69.4K

$152.1K

$172.5K

How much do contract embedded software engineer jobs pay per year?

As of May 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for contract embedded software engineer in Virginia is $152,068.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $130,400.00 and $171,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Contract Embedded Software Engineer job?

A Contract Embedded Software Engineer is a professional hired on a temporary or project basis to design, develop, and optimize software for embedded systems. These engineers work with microcontrollers, processors, and real-time operating systems (RTOS) to create software that operates hardware devices efficiently. They often specialize in industries like automotive, medical devices, aerospace, or consumer electronics. Contract roles can vary in duration and scope, offering flexibility and opportunities to work on diverse projects.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Contract Embedded Software Engineer position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Contract Embedded Software Engineer, you need strong skills in C/C++ programming, embedded systems development, debugging, and a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with microcontrollers, real-time operating systems (RTOS), hardware interfaces, and tools like oscilloscopes or JTAG debuggers is often required, and certifications such as Certified Embedded Systems Engineer can be beneficial. Excellent problem-solving, adaptability, and communication skills help you collaborate on diverse projects and meet tight contract deadlines. These abilities are crucial for delivering reliable, high-quality embedded software solutions in a fast-paced and dynamic work environment.

What are typical day-to-day responsibilities for a Contract Embedded Software Engineer?

As a Contract Embedded Software Engineer, your daily tasks often include writing and debugging embedded code, integrating software solutions with hardware components, and working closely with hardware engineers to meet project requirements. You'll participate in code reviews, documentation, and sometimes testing or troubleshooting hardware-software interactions. Communication with project managers and cross-functional teams is also common to ensure project milestones and deadlines are met. This variety allows you to apply your technical expertise while gaining experience across different industries and applications.

What engineering jobs pay $500,000?

Senior embedded software engineers with extensive experience, specialized skills in hardware and firmware development, and often working in high-demand industries such as aerospace or defense, can reach or exceed $500,000 annually including bonuses and stock options. Achieving this level typically requires advanced certifications, leadership roles, and working for large technology or defense firms.
What are the most commonly searched types of Embedded Software Engineer jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Embedded Software Engineer jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Contract Embedded Software Engineer jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Contract Embedded Software Engineer job openings:
Lead Software Engineer-Embedded Computing Software-Onsite

Lead Software Engineer-Embedded Computing Software-Onsite

Curtiss-Wright

Ashburn, VA • On-site

$145.20K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 14 hours ago


Curtiss-Wright rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 33 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

87th of 415 rated machine equipment manufacturers


Job description

Lead Software Engineer-Embedded Computing Software- Defense Solutions-Onsite
Curtiss Wright is seeking an experienced Lead Software Engineer-Embedded Computing Software to join our Defense Solutions Group.
As our Lead Software Engineer-Embedded Computing Software, you will oversee and perform the design, development, enhancement, and testing of complex software for embedded processing products used in US DoD and other secure applications. The Lead Software Development engineer also serves as a technical expert who drives architecture decisions, resolves advanced software issues, and ensures high-quality solutions that are aligned with product, customer, and business needs.
Location: Ashburn, VA
Salary Information: $ 108,900.00 - $145,200.00 per year plus bonus
Please note that the salary range information provided is a general guideline only, reflecting a position based in Virginia. Criteria such as the candidate's qualifications and relevant experience, the scope of the specific position, as well as market and business considerations will be evaluated when extending an offer.
We Take Care of Our People
Paid Time Off I 401K with Employer Match and Profit Sharing I Health and Wellness Benefits I Learning and Development Opportunities I Referral Program I Competitive Pay I Recognition I Employee Stock Purchase Plan I Inclusive & Supportive Culture
Your Challenge:
  • Participate in discussions and analyze marketing and product line managers' product plans and requirements and generate the software specifications and requirements for new products and enhancements to current products. Assist in Bids and Proposals (B&P) efforts, including generating engineering labor and material estimates based on requirements and defined scope of effort.
  • Collaborate with systems engineering and hardware development teams, and work with technical staff to create sustainable solutions and develop resolutions for software and/or hardware problems.
  • Plan, design, develop, and test new embedded computing software or complex enhancements to existing software for embedded systems based on specifications, and in compliance to industrial, military, and aerospace standards.
  • Implement and integrate, or debug embedded software including bootloaders (BIOS, SlimBootLoader and U-Boot), device drivers (Linux and VxWorks), customized applications and embedded test software, and product simulation and production test software.
  • Diagnose and resolve advanced software defects by collaborating with cross-functional technical staff and applying expert-level analytical and troubleshooting skills
  • Evaluate and respond to customer-reported issues, recommending and implementing software modifications or enhancements to improve functionality and user experience
  • Assist in the development of software design and test documentation, and user manuals.

What You Bring:
  • U.S. citizenship and active US DoD Clearance required.
  • Bachelor's degree in computer science, Computer Engineering, Software Engineering, or a related technical field; advanced degree preferred.
  • 8-12+ years of progressive software development experience, including ownership of complex applications or subsystems. 5+ years' experience developing software systems and 4+ years software project lead experience
  • Competencies in computer architecture, development of real-time embedded software, and engineering process discipline.
  • Hands-on and demonstrable experience with software development using C/C++, Linux (Red Hat, LynxOS, WindRiver), VxWorks (7.x), Linux and VxWorks device drivers, Scripting(bash/csh), high-level application software, Python, LabVIEW and IPMI.
  • Hands-on and demonstrable experience with development tools such as IDEs (Visual Studio, Eclipse-based), AMD/Xilinx Vivado/Vitis, Petalinux, GCC, CMake, Yocto, and MS Office.
  • Hands-on and demonstrable experience with with Intel x86 Processors, ARM, and AMD Zynq MPSoCs.
  • Knowledge and experience with protocol/standard, e.g., Ethernet, Infiniband, RDMA, PCIe Gen3/4, SPI, I2C, and RS232/RS422
  • Hands-on and demonstrable experience with laboratory debugging equipment and tools, e.g., Oscilloscope, Logic Analyzer, Spectrum Analyzer, and JTAG emulators
  • Proficiency with requirements management (IBM Rational DOORS), source code control (git, Bitbucket), JIRA, & Confluence
  • Familiarity with GreenHills Multi SW Development Suite, COSMIC SW Development Suite, ClearQuest, VectorCAST, LabVIEW
  • Familiarity with virtualization concepts and LynxOS Hypervisor preferred
  • Full software lifecycle development experience in accordance with DO-178C and CMMI
  • Fundamental understanding of software regression testing/verification
  • Strong analytical, problem-solving, and cross-functional collaboration skills.
  • Proven ability to interface with customers, resolve escalated technical issues, and translate feedback into actionable improvements.
  • Familiarity with industry guidelines and standards for engineering processes

Who We Are:
Our Values
Environmental, Social and Governance
Curtiss-Wright's Defense Solution division is a trusted, proven leader, delivering superior products and services that meet the defense and aerospace industries' toughest challenges with best-in-class value. Our solutions address air, ground, and naval defense applications, and are focused on growth segments with a high demand for advanced technology, enhanced safety, security, and performance. As a leading Modular Open Systems Approach (MOSA) solutions supplier for battlefield platforms and communication systems, we are uniquely positioned to benefit from the DoD's commitment to maintaining technological superiority on the battlefield.
To learn more visit: Home | Curtiss-Wright Defense Solutions (curtisswrightds.com)
No unsolicited agency submittals please. Agency partners must be invited to participate in a search by our Talent Acquisition Team and have signed terms in place prior to any submittal. Resumes submitted directly to any Curtiss-Wright employee or affiliate will not qualify for fee payment, and therefore become the property of Curtiss-Wright.
Compliance Statement
This position may require exposure to export-controlled information and subject to additional security screening. In the event information provided during the security screening reveals ineligibility to access export-controlled information, any offer of employment may be reconsidered or withdrawn.
Curtiss-Wright is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, ethnicity, color, sexual orientation, gender identity, physical or mental disability, age, ancestry, legally protected medical condition, family care status, marital status, religion, veteran status, national origin, or any other legally protected status. If you require accommodation during the recruitment process, please contact Talent Acquisition.
For US Applicants: EEO is The Law - click here for more information.
If you require accommodation due to a disability at any time during the recruitment and/or assessment process, please contact Talent Acquisition and we will make all reasonable efforts to accommodate your request.

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About Curtiss-Wright

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Curtiss-Wright Actuation Division designs, manufactures and supports electro-mechanical actuation products and systems for use in demanding applications in Aerospace, Defense and Industrial Automation markets. Our market leading solutions help improve the reliability, efficiency and performance of our customers' operations and platforms, as well as reducing their environmental impact with energy efficient electro-mechanical designs and technology. For the Aerospace market, we supply actuation systems for flight control, landing gear, utility and other applications on both commercial and military aircraft. In Ground & Naval Defense markets, we support a wide array of applications ranging from door assist, ramp and hatch actuation, weapons handling systems, radar and launch platform actuation, and robotic (AUV/ROV) actuation. In Industrial Automation, our Exlar® actuators are globally recognized as a leading brand offering high power density, precision and reliability for machine/process applications in automotive, food & beverage, oil & gas, robotics, entertainment and many other industries.

Industry

Computer and electronic product manufacturing

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Davidson, NC, US

Year founded

1929

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