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Embedded C Programming Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

S. Government. * Proficiency in C/C++ for systems-level or embedded software development ... Experience with reverse engineering and firmware rehosting for embedded systems, including analysis ...

Embedded Software Engineer

Herndon, VA · On-site +1

$135K - $177K/yr

Solid programming experience in C/C++ object-oriented design and development * Linux or a POSIX O/S ... Embedded development including hardware debug, device drivers, and real-time constraints in a ...

Embedded Software Engineer

Herndon, VA · On-site +1

$135K - $177K/yr

Solid programming experience in C/C++ object-oriented design and development * Linux or a POSIX O/S ... Embedded development including hardware debug, device drivers, and real-time constraints in a ...

Embedded Software Engineer

Herndon, VA · On-site +1

$135K - $177K/yr

Solid programming experience in C/C++ object-oriented design and development * Linux or a POSIX O/S ... Embedded development including hardware debug, device drivers, and real-time constraints in a ...

Embedded Software Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

$151K - $199K/yr

Embedded Software Engineer Apogee Research is at the forefront of a revolution in how the DoD ... High proficiency in C and C++. * Thorough understanding of the theory and practice of buffers ...

Embedded Software Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

$151K - $199K/yr

Embedded Software Engineer Apogee Research is at the forefront of a revolution in how the DoD ... High proficiency in C and C++. * Thorough understanding of the theory and practice of buffers ...

Electrical Engineer - Senior

Reston, VA · On-site

$111K - $145K/yr

Electrical Engineer - Senior ***This position requires an active TS/Sensitive Compartmental ... Proven background in embedded C or C derived language development for microcontrollers

Electrical Engineer - Senior

Reston, VA · On-site

$111K - $145K/yr

Electrical Engineer - Senior ***This position requires an active TS/Sensitive Compartmental ... Proven background in embedded C or C derived language development for microcontrollers

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Embedded C Programming information

What is an Embedded C Programming job?

An Embedded C Programming job involves writing and optimizing C code for microcontrollers and embedded systems. Engineers in this role develop firmware to control hardware devices like IoT gadgets, automotive systems, or industrial machines. They work with low-level hardware interactions, real-time operating systems (RTOS), and peripheral drivers. Strong knowledge of memory management, debugging, and performance optimization is essential for this role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Embedded C Programming position, and why are they important?

To thrive in Embedded C Programming, you need a solid understanding of C language, microcontroller architectures, real-time operating systems (RTOS), and low-level hardware-software integration, typically supported by a degree in Computer Engineering or related fields. Experience with embedded development environments, debugging tools like JTAG, and version control systems such as Git is commonly required, and certifications like ARM Accredited Engineer can be advantageous. Strong analytical skills, attention to detail, effective problem solving, and the ability to communicate technical concepts clearly are highly valued soft skills. These skills ensure reliable, efficient firmware development and enable seamless collaboration within multidisciplinary engineering teams.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of someone working in Embedded C Programming?

A professional in Embedded C Programming typically works on writing, testing, and optimizing code that runs on microcontrollers or embedded systems within electronic products. Day-to-day tasks often include debugging hardware-software interactions, integrating different device drivers, performing code reviews, and collaborating closely with hardware engineers and QA teams to meet project requirements. Additionally, you may be responsible for documenting software designs and participating in team meetings to discuss system architecture or project milestones. This role requires both independent problem-solving and teamwork, as successful project delivery depends on effective communication and close coordination with other engineering specialists.

What are the most commonly searched types of Embedded C Programming jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Embedded C Programming jobs in Virginia are:
What job categories do people searching Embedded C Programming jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Embedded C Programming jobs in Virginia are:
Infographic showing various Embedded C Programming job openings in Virginia as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 66% Full Time, 23% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 7% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution.
Embedded Systems Emulation Engineer

Embedded Systems Emulation Engineer

STR

Arlington, VA • On-site

$110K - $151K/yr

Full-time

Posted 13 days ago


Job description

STR is hiring an Embedded Systems Emulation Engineer to join our multidisciplinary team of researchers and engineers developing cutting-edge technologies with significant and immediate impact on our national security. In this role, you will work at the intersection of computer systems and real-world physical systems, building the tools and models that emulate complex cyber-physical platforms to enable analysis, reverse engineering, and experimentation.
We believe every employee brings a unique set of skills, experiences, and perspectives that are essential to providing innovative solutions for our customers. You do not need to have experience with every technology listed to be successful in this role. Strong fundamentals, curiosity, and the ability to learn new tools and domains are highly valued.
What you will do:
  • Work as part of a small, focused team to architect, develop, implement, and test modular software applications and tools for emulating cyber-physical systems.
  • Extend and customize existing emulation frameworks (e.g., QEMU) in C/C++ and Python to support new targets, peripherals, and capabilities.
  • Rehost unknown or sparsely documented firmware by analyzing binaries, identifying hardware dependencies, and adapting these to run correctly in emulated environments.
  • Develop emulator tooling and virtual device models to support reverse engineering and analysis of embedded systems across diverse architectures (e.g., ARM, PPC).
  • Develop digital models using virtualization tools (e.g., QEMU) and network them together to create integrated, end-to-end system simulations that closely approximate real hardware behavior.
  • Ensure model quality and correctness through unit-level and system-level testing, and by validating behavior against first principles, measured data, documentation, and hardware/software artifacts.
  • Communicate technical foundations of models and algorithms through reports and briefings

Who you are:
  • This position requires an Active Secret security clearance with eligibility for Top Secret (TS) clearance, for which U.S. citizenship is needed by U.S. Government.
  • Proficiency in C/C++ for systems-level or embedded software development
  • Proficiency in Python for tool development, automation, and integration
  • Familiarity with emulation and virtualization tools (e.g., QEMU or similar frameworks)
  • Strong understanding of computer architecture, emulation principles, and software engineering best practices (e.g., modular design, testing, code review)
  • Experience using collaborative source code management (e.g., Git)

Education:
  • BS in Computer Engineering, Computers Science, Electrical Engineering or related field

Nice to have:
  • Active Top Secret (TS) Security Clearance
  • Familiarity with network architecture and protocols, and experience integrating networked simulations
  • Experience with low-level software modifications (e.g., implants, firmware changes, binary patch development)
  • Experience at the software/hardware interface, including device drivers or real-time/embedded operating systems
  • Experience with reverse engineering and firmware rehosting for embedded systems, including analysis of instruction set architectures (e.g., ARM, PPC) and use of tools such as Ghidra, IDA Pro, or Binary Ninja
  • Experience implementing component models (e.g., sensors, actuators, dynamics, environmental factors) in Python and/or C/C++, and integrate them into system-level simulations and software processing chains
  • Experience working with hardware components and interfaces
  • Masters or PhD in related field

Pay Information
Full-Time Salary Range: $110,000 - $151,000
The salary range listed is based on external market data. Offers are based on factors, such as but not limited to, the candidate's experience, education, training, key skills/critical skills, security clearances, and prevailing market and business conditions.
STR is a growing technology company with locations near Boston, MA, Arlington, VA, near Dayton, OH, Melbourne, FL, and Carlsbad, CA. We specialize in advanced research and development for defense, intelligence, and national security in: cyber; next generation sensors, radar, sonar, communications, and electronic warfare; and artificial intelligence algorithms and analytics to make sense of the complexity that is exploding around us.
STR is committed to creating a collaborative learning environment that supports deep technical understanding and recognizes the contributions and achievements of all team members. Our work is challenging, and we go home at night knowing that we pushed the envelope of technology and made the world safer.
STR is not just any company. Our people, culture, and attitude along with their unique set of skills, experiences, and perspectives put us on a trajectory to change the world. We can't do it alone, though - we need fellow trailblazers. If you are one, join our team and help to keep our society safe! Visit us at www.str.us for more info.
STR is an equal opportunity employer. We are fully dedicated to hiring the most qualified candidate regardless of race, color, religion, sex (including gender identity, sexual orientation and pregnancy), marital status, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, genetic information or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.
If you need a reasonable accommodation for any portion of the employment process, email us at appassist@str.us and provide your contact info.
Pursuant to applicable federal law and regulations, positions at STR require employees to obtain national security clearances and satisfy the requirements for compliance with export control and other applicable laws.