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Embedded Contractor Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Satellite Systems Software Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$177K - $209K/yr

The Satellite Systems Software Engineer will partner with multi-Agency and multi-Contractor team of ... Analyze designs and software engineering practices that is integrated into embedded devices and ...

Senior Software Engineer

Arlington, VA

$141K - $186K/yr

Knowledge of the responsibilities of the applicable Government and contractor activities and their interfaces is a plus RESPONSIBILITIES * Evaluate the embedded tactical flight software, test ...

Senior Software Engineer

Arlington, VA

$140K - $185K/yr

Knowledge of the responsibilities of the applicable Government and contractor activities and their interfaces is a plus RESPONSIBILITIES * Evaluate the embedded tactical flight software, test ...

Senior Software Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

$140K - $185K/yr

Knowledge of the responsibilities of the applicable Government and contractor activities and their interfaces is a plus RESPONSIBILITIES * Evaluate the embedded tactical flight software, test ...

The Satellite Systems Software Engineer will partner with multi-Agency and multi-Contractor team of ... Analyzes, monitors and improves the efficiency and stability of embedded software systems.

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Showing results 1-20

Embedded Contractor information

What is the difference between Embedded Contractor vs Embedded Engineer?

AspectEmbedded ContractorEmbedded Engineer
CredentialsTypically requires relevant certifications or experience in embedded systemsRequires similar credentials, often with a degree in electrical engineering or computer engineering
Work EnvironmentContract-based, often project-specific, working on-site or remotelyFull-time or contract, working within engineering teams on product development
Industry UsageCommon in tech, manufacturing, and defense sectorsPrimarily in electronics, automotive, and consumer device industries
Search & Comparison IntentOften compared for project-based roles or freelance workCompared for full-time engineering roles or specialized development

In summary, Embedded Contractors typically work on a temporary basis, focusing on specific projects, while Embedded Engineers are usually full-time staff involved in ongoing product development. Both roles require similar technical skills and certifications, but differ mainly in employment type and work setting.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Embedded Contractor, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Embedded Contractor, you need a solid background in embedded systems design, programming (typically in C/C++), and hardware/software integration, often backed by an engineering degree or equivalent experience. Familiarity with microcontrollers, real-time operating systems (RTOS), and tools like oscilloscopes, logic analyzers, and version control systems is essential, along with relevant certifications such as Certified Embedded Systems Engineer (CESE). Strong problem-solving abilities, adaptability, and effective communication skills help contractors quickly integrate with new teams and projects. These skills are crucial for delivering reliable embedded solutions within tight deadlines and diverse environments.

What are some common challenges faced by Embedded Contractors when working with new client teams?

Embedded Contractors often need to quickly adapt to new team dynamics, workflows, and technical environments. One common challenge is understanding the client's existing codebase and aligning with their development standards within a short onboarding period. Additionally, contractors must balance delivering results efficiently with building trust and clear communication among permanent team members. Proactively asking questions and clarifying expectations early on can help ensure a smoother transition and successful project outcomes.

What are embedded contractors?

Embedded contractors are professionals who are hired on a contract basis to work directly within a client's organization, usually as part of an internal team. Unlike external consultants who provide advice from outside, embedded contractors are fully integrated into the company's day-to-day operations, often working on-site and collaborating closely with staff. They typically possess specialized skills required for specific projects or roles, such as software development, engineering, or project management. Embedded contractors can offer flexibility and expertise without the long-term commitment of hiring a full-time employee.
What cities in Washington are hiring for Embedded Contractor jobs? Cities in Washington with the most Embedded Contractor job openings:
Software and Systems Development Engineers

Software and Systems Development Engineers

Navstar

Arlington, VA

$199K - $236K/yr

Other

Posted 22 days ago


Job description

Software And Systems Development Engineer

Locations: Onsite in Arlington, VA or Herndon, VA, but would accept onsite Jessup, MD with occasional travel to VA.

About the Role: We are seeking experienced Software and Systems Development Engineers to support the design, development, deployment, and ongoing maintenance of a new Test Framework - a purpose-built test orchestration and asset management platform operating within a classified development environment. Contractors will work as members of the engineering team, contributing across the full software development lifecycle of the Test Framework and its operational use. The Test Framework is a distributed system that manages physical and virtual test infrastructure, orchestrates test execution, and stores and analyzes test results. It operates in an isolated environment with strict controls - creative problem-solving and debugging within those constraints is expected. The devices under test are embedded Linux systems operating in a physical lab network, so familiarity with embedded systems and networking is directly applicable.

Responsibilities:

  • Design and implement new features across all Test Framework subsystems: Test Manager (configuration, orchestration, results) and Asset Manager (reservation, configuration, tasking, device adapters)
  • Define and implement service APIs using IDLs
  • Develop and maintain device adapters that abstract physical lab hardware (test devices, traffic generators, packet switches, optical switches) behind generic interfaces, including adapters for embedded Linux devices accessed over the network
  • Implement and maintain datastores across multiple database technologies, e.g., PostgreSQL, GraphDB, DynamoDB
  • Deploy and manage the Test Framework using Amazon CDK
  • Develop and maintain CI/CD pipelines in Gitlab Pipelines
  • Instrument and monitor services with CloudWatch, time series databases, and other alerting tools
  • Produce and maintain technical documentation
  • Provide technical support and guidance to users of the Test Framework
  • Triage and resolve production issues

Required Qualifications:

  • 5+ years of professional software development experience
  • Proficiency in Python or Rust; experience with both is a plus.
  • Proficiency in Bash scripting
  • Experience designing and building distributed systems
  • Experience defining service interfaces using an IDL
  • Experience with CI/CD pipeline design and implementation (GitLab CI, Jenkins, or equivalent)
  • Familiarity with containerization
  • Experience working in Linux/Unix environments, with an emphasis on console usage
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Experience with Amazon CDK or other Infrastructure as Code technologies
  • Experience with embedded Linux systems
  • Knowledge of networking fundamentals relevant to embedded and lab environments: Ethernet, IP routing, optical networking concepts, traffic generation and analysis
  • Experience developing in classified or air-gapped environments with restricted tooling
  • Experience with AWS CloudWatch for observability: metrics, logs, alarms, and dashboards
  • Experience with test framework technologies, e.g., pytest, pytest-bdd, robot, behave, etc.
  • Background in hardware-in-the-loop or lab automation testing environments