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Embedded Engineer Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

Embedded Software Engineer

Dulles, VA · On-site

$130K - $171K/yr

The Position TrustPoint is currently seeking a Full Time Embedded Software Engineer to join the team and will be responsible for implementing electrical components into hardware and firmware needed ...

Embedded Software Engineer

Sterling, VA · On-site

$130K - $171K/yr

The Position TrustPoint is currently seeking a Full Time Embedded Software Engineer to join the team and will be responsible for implementing electrical components into hardware and firmware needed ...

Are you ready to launch your career as a TS/SCI Software or Embedded Engineer/Developer ? Parsons is seeking an entry-level engineer with a Top Secret clearance to join our agile, tight-knit ...

Embedded Firmware Engineer

Arlington, VA

$118K - $162K/yr

This position will work with the Chief Engineer to develop embedded software for this security appliance. Your goals are to increase the number of applications that the hardware can be used for ...

Embedded Firmware Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

$118K - $162K/yr

This position will work with the Chief Engineer to develop embedded software for this security appliance. Your goals are to increase the number of applications that the hardware can be used for ...

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Showing results 1-20

Embedded Engineer information

See Reston, VA salary details

$72.8K

$159.6K

$181K

How much do embedded engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for embedded engineer 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 engineers make $500,000?

Senior engineers in specialized fields such as software, electrical, or systems engineering can earn $500,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced skills, and leadership roles. High compensation often involves working in industries like technology, aerospace, or finance, and may include bonuses, stock options, or profit sharing.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior embedded engineers with extensive experience, specialized skills in hardware and software integration, and often advanced certifications can earn $300,000 or more annually. High compensation is typically associated with leadership roles, working in high-demand industries like aerospace or defense, or in companies with competitive pay structures.

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.

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 systems such as appliances, vehicles, or industrial machines. They work with microcontrollers, real-time operating systems, and programming languages like C or C++, often collaborating with hardware engineers to ensure system functionality and reliability.

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

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.

Will an embedded engineer be replaced by AI?

Embedded engineers design and develop software and hardware for embedded systems, and while AI can automate certain tasks like testing and data analysis, it is unlikely to fully replace the need for human engineers who require specialized knowledge of hardware, real-time constraints, and system integration. AI tools can augment their work but do not currently replace the critical thinking and problem-solving skills essential to the role.
What are the most commonly searched types of Embedded Engineer jobs in Reston, VA? The most popular types of Embedded Engineer jobs in Reston, VA are:
What are popular job titles related to Embedded Engineer jobs in Reston, VA? For Embedded Engineer jobs in Reston, VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Embedded Engineer jobs in Reston, VA look for? The top searched job categories for Embedded Engineer jobs in Reston, VA are:
What cities near Reston, VA are hiring for Embedded Engineer jobs? Cities near Reston, VA with the most Embedded Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Embedded Engineer job openings in Reston, VA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 92% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $159,573 per year, or $76.7 per hour.
Cybersecurity Embedded Software Engineer

Cybersecurity Embedded Software Engineer

Viasat, Inc.

Germantown, MD • Hybrid

$174K - $261K/yr

Full-time

Posted 16 days ago


Viasat rating

4.2

Company rating: 4.2 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

78th of 81 rated telecommunications companies


Job description

About us

One team. Global challenges. Infinite opportunities. At Viasat, we’re on a mission to deliver connections with the capacity to change the world. For more than 35 years, Viasat has helped shape how consumers, businesses, governments and militaries around the globe communicate. We’re looking for people who think big, act fearlessly, and create an inclusive environment that drives positive impact to join our team.


What you'll do

We are looking for an Embedded Software Engineer - Cybersecurity to join our Government team! Our team develops satellite modems and terminals that communicate over multi-band satellite systems, including the Viasat-3 global constellation! As an Embedded Software Engineer – Cybersecurity, you will collaborate with software, security, and automation engineers to design, develop, and deploy secure embedded terminal systems. This role emphasizes secure software development across the full SDLC, including automation, testing, deployment, and continuous integration in both development and production environments.  There may be opportunites for non-security related feature development as well.

This role directly contributes to the security, reliability, and scalability of our global satellite terminal infrastructure.


The day-to-day
  • Design, develop, test, document, troubleshoot, and maintain security-focused embedded software
  • Develop automated access controls for systems and devices
  • Integrate security tools into CI/CD pipelines including static and dynamic analysis
  • Configure, enforce, and tune security tool policies
  • Triage and analyze security scan results
  • Develop technical documentation and security test plans
  • Automate configuration and validation of Linux security settings
  • Create scripts and tools for managing secrets, keys, and digital certificates
  • Research and prototype security mechanisms for development and production environments
  • Evaluate Linux controls for cybersecurity and privacy compliance
  • Collaborate cross-functionally with product, test, and security teams

What you'll need
  • 8+ years of professional software engineering experience
  • Strong C and C++ development and debugging skills on Linux
  • Experience with encryption and authentication software
  • Experience with OpenSSL cryptographic libraries
  • Working knowledge of Linux security controls
  • Proficiency with Bash and scripting languages such as Python or Lua
  • Experience working in an Agile, Perforce or Git-based development environment
  • Ability to work autonomously and mentor junior engineers
  • Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Engineering, a related field or equivalent experience
  • Must be able to work out of our office in Carlsbad, CA or Germantown, MD 3 days per week; hybrid role
  • Ability to Obtain and Maintain a United States Secret Clearance required

     

What will help you on the job
  • Deep knowledge of Linux OS internals including threading, synchronization, memory management, and networking
  • Experience with Linux device driver development and kernel crypto modules
  • Experience implementing REST APIs and working with JSON
  • Experience configuring and debugging embedded HTTP/HTTPS servers
  • Strong foundations in data structures and algorithms
  • Experience designing and implementing network security protocols
  • Experience with Agile / Scrum methodologies
  • Experience with modern C++ standards (C++17 and newer)
  • Experience with ARM, Power and x86 architectures
  • Knowledge of Trusted Execution Environments like ARM TrustZone
  • Knowledge of hardware security with TPM
  • Experience with secure transport protocols such as TLS and IPsec
  • Experience with virtualized environments: Docker/Podman/LXC containers
  • Experience with confidential containers
  • Experience with secure firmware update and OTA software integrity mechanisms
  • Experience with threat modeling and structured vulnerability analysis

#LI-VSAT 


Salary range
$140,500.00 - $221,500.00 / annually.For specific work locations within San Jose, the San Francisco Bay area and New York City metropolitan area, the base pay range for this role is $174,000.00- $261,000.00/ annually
At Viasat, we consider many factors when it comes to compensation, including the scope of the position as well as your background and experience. Base pay may vary depending on job-related knowledge, skills, and experience. Additional cash or stock incentives may be provided as part of the compensation package, in addition to a range of medical, financial, and/or other benefits, dependent on the position offered. Learn more about Viasat's comprehensive benefit offerings that are focused on your holistic health and wellness at https://careers.viasat.com/benefits.
EEO Statement

Viasat is proud to be an equal opportunity employer, seeking to create a welcoming and diverse environment. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, ancestry, physical or mental disability, medical condition, marital status, genetics, age, or veteran status or any other applicable legally protected status or characteristic. If you would like to request an accommodation on the basis of disability for completing this on-line application, please click here.

Qualifications:
  • 8+ years of professional software engineering experience
  • Strong C and C++ development and debugging skills on Linux
  • Experience with encryption and authentication software
  • Experience with OpenSSL cryptographic libraries
  • Working knowledge of Linux security controls
  • Proficiency with Bash and scripting languages such as Python or Lua
  • Experience working in an Agile, Perforce or Git-based development environment
  • Ability to work autonomously and mentor junior engineers
  • Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Engineering, a related field or equivalent experience
  • Must be able to work out of our office in Carlsbad, CA or Germantown, MD 3 days per week; hybrid role
  • Ability to Obtain and Maintain a United States Secret Clearance required

     
Education:UNAVAILABLEEmployment Type: FULL_TIME

What Viasat employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


ViaSat logo

About ViaSat

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Viasat, we're on a mission to deliver connections with the capacity to change the world. For more than 35 years, Viasat has helped shape how consumers, businesses, governments and militaries around the globe communicate.

Industry

Telecommunications

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Carlsbad, CA, US

Year founded

1986