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Contract Embedded Software Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

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.

Embedded Systems Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$120K - $160K/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.

Eng Prin - SW

Manassas, VA · On-site

$118K - $200K/yr

... talented embedded software developers with a love for space who are comfortable in a fast-paced ... contract, this specific position requires US citizenship status. About BAE Systems Electronic ...

Significant focus on developing embedded software code for spacecraft bus avionics, spacecraft ... on contracts and/or projects, interacts with senior external personnel on technical matters ...

Software Developer VI

Herndon, VA · On-site

$128K - $229K/yr

Significant focus on developing embedded software code for spacecraft bus avionics, spacecraft ... on contracts and/or projects, interacts with senior external personnel on technical matters ...

... running embedded operating systems • Work across the products and teams to implement a ... USG contracts • Demonstrated technical leadership and subject matter expertise • Possess ...

Contract-to-Hire, 6-month initial contract (program minimum 3 years) Compensation Range: $80-100/hr ... Develop embedded software in support of sonar and anti-submarine warfare systems within a cross ...

Terrestrial Software Systems Engineer

Reston, VA · On-site

$180K - $213K/yr

Most contracts allow additional experience (4-5 years) in lieu of a Bachelor's Degree. Some ... Proficiency in embedded software development * Expertise in system integration and testing

Terrestrial Software Systems Engineer

Tysons, VA · On-site

$173K - $205K/yr

Most contracts allow additional experience (4-5 years) in lieu of a Bachelor's Degree. Some ... Proficiency in embedded software development * Expertise in system integration and testing

Eng Sr - SW

Manassas, VA · On-site

$97K - $164K/yr

... talented embedded software developers with a love for space who are comfortable in a fast-paced ... contract, this specific position requires US citizenship status. About BAE Systems Electronic ...

Showing results 21-40

Contract Embedded Software information

See Reston, VA salary details

$72.8K

$159.6K

$181K

How much do contract embedded software jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for contract embedded software in Reston, VA is $159,573.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $136,800.00 and $180,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are typical challenges faced in a contract embedded software role?

Contract embedded software professionals often encounter challenges such as quickly adapting to new hardware platforms, integrating with legacy systems, and rapidly understanding diverse project requirements. Since contracts are often project-based, there may be limited time for onboarding, requiring strong self-motivation and efficient troubleshooting skills. Additionally, clear documentation and collaboration with hardware engineers or cross-functional teams are critical to ensure smooth system integration. These challenges can be rewarding, as they provide opportunities to develop broad technical expertise and experience a wide variety of products and industries.

What is a contract embedded software?

A Contract Embedded Software job involves developing, testing, and maintaining embedded systems software for a company on a temporary or project basis. Contractors typically work with microcontrollers, real-time operating systems (RTOS), and low-level programming languages like C or C++. These roles can vary in duration and may involve working remotely or onsite. Contract engineers often collaborate with hardware teams, follow specific project requirements, and ensure system reliability and performance.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the contract embedded software position, and why are they important?

To excel as a Contract Embedded Software professional, you need strong experience with programming languages like C or C++, real-time operating systems (RTOS), hardware interfacing, and a relevant degree in computer engineering or a related field. Familiarity with development tools such as JTAG debuggers, oscilloscopes, version control systems, and certifications like Certified Embedded Systems Engineer (CESE) are highly valued. Effective problem-solving, adaptability, and clear communication are important soft skills for collaborating with multidisciplinary teams and managing project-based work. These capabilities ensure you can deliver robust, efficient solutions within project timelines in dynamic, technology-driven environments.

What are the most commonly searched types of Embedded Software jobs in Reston, VA? The most popular types of Embedded Software jobs in Reston, VA are:
What are popular job titles related to Contract Embedded Software jobs in Reston, VA? For Contract Embedded Software jobs in Reston, VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities near Reston, VA are hiring for Contract Embedded Software jobs? Cities near Reston, VA with the most Contract Embedded Software job openings:
Infographic showing various Contract Embedded Software job openings in Reston, VA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 85% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $159,573 per year, or $76.7 per hour.

Satellite Systems Software Engineer

Science Applications International Corporation

Chantilly, VA • On-site

$178K - $211K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 15 days ago


SAIC rating

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Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

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Job description


Join a winning team!! SAIC's Space and Intelligence Business Group is currently hiring to advance space capabilities supporting our Department of Defense (DOD) and Intelligence Community customers. Ten miles from the SAIC headquarters, our Chantilly, VA team supports systems development, targeting & intelligence analysis, systems engineering & integration and more.
This position is for a Satellite Systems Software Engineer for a large, multi-year contract supporting a cutting-edge and innovative space program. The Satellite Systems Software Engineer must possess and have successfully demonstrated satellite engineering experience. Requires excellent problem-solving, interpersonal, and oral and written communication skills. The Satellite Systems Software Engineer will partner with multi-Agency and multi-Contractor team of system engineers and subject matter experts to effectively plan, organize, and execute all activities across the system life cycle.
The Satellite Systems Software Engineer provides leadership and technical support that may include, but are not limited to the following:
Role Responsibilities:
  • Directly contribute to the Government's mission success through comprehensive analysis, thought leadership, and proactive system engineering activities.
  • Analyze designs and software engineering practices that is integrated into embedded devices and systems and meets industry, customer, safety and regulation standards.
  • Assists with reviews, analyzes, and translates customer requirements into the design of software products for embedded devices and systems.
  • Analyzes, monitors and improves the efficiency and stability of embedded software systems.
  • Witness developer-executed tests for embedded devices and systems.
  • Recommends implementation of current and emerging technologies, tools, frameworks, and changes in regulations relevant to software development and hardware technologies.
  • Advises on software and hardware integration domains.
  • Provide engineering consultation to current satellite operations assisting with vehicle anomaly or event support.
  • Proactively works with Government, Developer, and SETA program managers and system engineers to identify, report, and resolve issues.
  • Works without any direct supervisor.

Qualifications
  • Must possess an active TS/SCI clearance with Polygraph.
  • Bachelors and 5 years of relevant experience; OR Masters and 3 years of relevant experience.
  • Government or Commercial experience.
  • 4+ years of experience designing and developing software for a real-time or non-real-time system.
  • Expert in embedded software system architecture, design, integration and test.
  • Knowledge of orbital mechanics and utility of different orbits.
  • Expert at defining solutions for broad, abstract topics; succinctly captures issues for customer and provides analysis and recommendations.
  • Ability to work in a fast paced, dynamic, and team environment with no supervision.
  • Polished communicator (written and verbal) with highly effective interpersonal skills and personal judgement.

Desired Qualifications:
  • STEM or intelligence-related degree.
  • Ability to thrive in a face paced and dynamic environment.
  • Willingness to communicate assessments of complex issues to Program and Mission teams.

About Us
SAIC® is a premier mission integrator focused on advancing the power of technology and innovation to serve and protect our world. Our robust portfolio of offerings across the defense, space, intelligence, and civilian markets includes secure high-end solutions in mission IT, enterprise IT, engineering services, and professional services. We integrate emerging technology, rapidly and securely, into mission critical operations that modernize and enable critical national imperatives.
We are approximately 23,000 strong; driven by mission, united by purpose, and inspired by opportunities. SAIC is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Headquartered in Reston, Virginia, SAIC has annual revenues of approximately $7.3 billion. For more information, visit saic.com. For ongoing news, please visit our newsroom.

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