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Embedded Engineer Jobs in Fairfax, VA (NOW HIRING)

Zetier

CNO Embedded Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

CNO Embedded Engineer Zetier seeks senior Computer Network Operations (CNO) embedded system engineers to analyze and develop operationally critical cyber capabilities. Candidates will demonstrate ...

Zetier

CNO Embedded Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

CNO Embedded Engineer Zetier seeks senior Computer Network Operations (CNO) embedded system engineers to analyze and develop operationally critical cyber capabilities. Candidates will demonstrate ...

Parsons

Embedded Engineer - TS/SCI

Centreville, VA · On-site

$125K - $225K/yr

Are you an innovative Embedded Software Engineer with expertise in C/C++ and Linux systems? Do you thrive in fast-paced environments where solving complex problems is the norm? Parsons is seeking ...

The Josef Group

Embedded Hardware Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$110 - $150/hr

Embedded Hardware Engineer Top Secret, TS/SCI is required to start (will accept a CI or FSP) Chantilly or Arlington, VA We are seeking an Embedded Hardware Engineer to support the design, development ...

Actalent

Embedded Software Engineer

Manassas, VA

$55 - $75/hr

Embedded Software Engineer This role focuses on developing next-generation embedded Linux software for advanced submarine acoustic systems and newly designed hardware platforms. You will work on a ...

SAIC

Embedded Systems Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$120K - $160K/yr

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 ...

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All JobsEmbedded Engineer JobsEmbedded Engineer Jobs in Fairfax, VA

Embedded Engineer information

See Fairfax, VA salary details

$71.4K

$156.5K

$177.5K

How much do embedded engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average yearly pay for embedded engineer in Fairfax, VA is $156,452.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $134,100.00 and $176,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an embedded engineer?

To thrive as an Embedded Engineer, you need a solid background in computer science or electrical engineering, with strong skills in C/C++, microcontroller programming, and embedded systems design. Familiarity with real-time operating systems (RTOS), hardware debugging tools, and version control systems like Git is typically required, and certifications such as Certified Embedded Systems Engineer (CESE) can be beneficial. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication are standout soft skills in this field. These competencies are crucial for developing reliable, efficient embedded solutions that integrate seamlessly with hardware and meet user requirements.

What are some common challenges faced by embedded engineers when working on cross-functional teams?

Embedded Engineers often collaborate closely with hardware designers, software developers, and test engineers, which can present challenges related to communication and integration. Aligning the firmware with hardware specifications, managing resource constraints, and ensuring timely debugging across different platforms are frequent hurdles. To succeed, Embedded Engineers need strong communication skills and a collaborative mindset to bridge gaps between disciplines and deliver cohesive, reliable systems.

What is the difference between Embedded Engineer vs Firmware Engineer?

AspectEmbedded EngineerFirmware Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Electrical, Computer Engineering, or related fields; certifications like ARM or IoT certifications are commonBachelor's in Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or related; often similar certifications in embedded systems or firmware development
Work EnvironmentDesigning and developing hardware-software integrated systems, often in industrial, automotive, or consumer electronicsWriting, testing, and debugging low-level code that runs directly on hardware devices like microcontrollers or embedded processors
Employer & Industry UsageElectronics manufacturers, automotive, aerospace, IoT companiesConsumer electronics, IoT devices, medical devices, automotive systems

Embedded Engineers and Firmware Engineers often work closely, but Embedded Engineers focus on both hardware and software integration, while Firmware Engineers specialize in low-level code development that runs directly on hardware. Both roles require similar skills and certifications, but their primary focus and work environment differ slightly.

Are embedded engineers in demand?

Embedded engineers are in high demand due to the growth of IoT devices, automotive systems, and consumer electronics. Skills in C/C++, real-time operating systems, and hardware integration are particularly valuable in this field, which offers strong job stability and opportunities across various industries.

What does an embedded engineer do?

An embedded engineer designs, develops, and tests software and hardware for embedded systems, which are specialized computing devices within larger machines or products. They work with microcontrollers, real-time operating systems, and programming languages like C or C++, often collaborating with hardware teams to ensure system functionality and reliability.

What are the most commonly searched types of Embedded Engineer jobs in Fairfax, VA?

The most popular types of Embedded Engineer jobs in Fairfax, VA are:

What are popular job titles related to Embedded Engineer jobs in Fairfax, VA?

For Embedded Engineer jobs in Fairfax, VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Embedded Engineer jobs in Fairfax, VA look for?

The top searched job categories for Embedded Engineer jobs in Fairfax, VA are:

What cities near Fairfax, VA are hiring for Embedded Engineer jobs?

Cities near Fairfax, VA with the most Embedded Engineer job openings:

Embedded Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Embedded Engineer job openings in Fairfax, VA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 6% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $156,452 per year, or $75.2 per hour.

CNO Embedded Engineer

Zetier

Arlington, VA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 14 days ago

Job description

CNO Embedded Engineer

Zetier seeks senior Computer Network Operations (CNO) embedded system engineers to analyze and develop operationally critical cyber capabilities. Candidates will demonstrate practical experience designing, developing, deploying, and examining tools intersecting communications, sensing, and meeting resource constraints (e.g. space, heat, power). Positions available in Arlington (VA), State College (PA), and St Petersburg (FL).

Required:

  • Extensive experience (5+ years) electrical engineering (e.g. DSP, FPGA, PCB, RF)
  • Familiarity with software programming languages (e.g. C/C++, Matlab, Python)
  • Development on embedded platforms (e.g. uBoot, IoT, drone firmware)
  • Successfully developed cutting edge end-to-end cyber solutions
  • Effective communication with customers and teammates
  • Ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. security clearance

Desired:

  • Experience with RF/mmW hardware design and/or component design
  • Wireless communications standards and protocols (e.g. GSM/LTE/5g)
  • Schematic capture; PCB layout, simulation, and design experience
  • Systems software development experience (e.g. OS kernel drivers)
  • Experience working in networking (e.g. 802.11ac, Zigbee, SATCOM)
  • Securely implemented cryptographic primitives (e.g. AES, ECDSA)
  • Experience developing with version control software (e.g. git, svn)
  • Familiar reading assembly / compiled programs (e.g. x86, 64, ARM)
  • Reverse engineering experience (e.g. gdb, Binary Ninja, IDA Pro)
  • Developed software on mobile platforms (e.g. Android, iOS)
  • Successfully led small cross-domain development teams
  • Active U.S. security clearance

Zetier is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, non-disqualifying physical or mental disability, national origin, veteran status or any other basis protected by law. All employment is decided on the basis of merit, qualifications, and business need.

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