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Embedded Firmware Engineer Intern Jobs in Washington, DC

Cyber Engineering Intern

Arlington, VA · On-site

$95K - $120K/yr

Cyber Engineering Intern Zetier is seeking junior CNO Engineers to develop real-world cyber ... Development on embedded platforms (uBoot, drone firmware, IOT) * Familiar reading assembly ...

Cyber Engineering Intern

Arlington, VA · On-site

$19.25 - $25/hr

Cyber Engineering Intern Zetier is seeking junior CNO Engineers to develop real-world cyber ... Development on embedded platforms (uBoot, drone firmware, IOT) * Familiar reading assembly ...

Showing results 41-60

Embedded Firmware Engineer Intern information

See Washington, DC salary details

$83.2K

$138.2K

$185.7K

How much do embedded firmware engineer intern jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average yearly pay for embedded firmware engineer intern in Washington, DC is $138,185.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $116,700.00 and $159,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an embedded firmware engineer intern do?

An Embedded Firmware Engineer Intern assists in developing, testing, and debugging software that runs on hardware devices, such as microcontrollers and embedded systems. Their responsibilities may include writing code in languages like C or C++, working with circuit boards, and collaborating with hardware and software teams to ensure system functionality. Interns often participate in troubleshooting hardware-software integration issues and supporting the development process from concept to prototype. This role provides valuable hands-on experience in both software development and electronics.

What types of projects and responsibilities can an embedded firmware engineer intern expect during their internship?

As an Embedded Firmware Engineer Intern, you can expect to work on tasks such as writing and debugging code for microcontrollers, assisting with hardware-software integration, and performing tests to validate firmware functionality. You may collaborate closely with hardware engineers, participate in code reviews, and help develop or update documentation. Interns are often given opportunities to contribute to real-world product development, which provides valuable hands-on experience and exposure to the full engineering lifecycle. This role is a great way to build technical skills and learn how cross-functional engineering teams operate in practice.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an embedded firmware engineer intern, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Embedded Firmware Engineer Intern, you need a solid understanding of C/C++ programming, microcontroller architectures, and basic electronics, often supported by coursework in electrical or computer engineering. Familiarity with IDEs, version control systems (like Git), and debugging tools such as oscilloscopes or logic analyzers is typically expected. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication are important soft skills for this position. These skills and qualities ensure you can contribute to reliable firmware development, collaborate with hardware teams, and adapt to the fast-paced demands of embedded systems projects.

What is the difference between Embedded Firmware Engineer Intern vs Embedded Software Developer Intern?

AspectEmbedded Firmware Engineer InternEmbedded Software Developer Intern
CredentialsTypically pursuing or holding a degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or related fieldsUsually pursuing or holding a degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or related fields
Work EnvironmentHardware-focused, working closely with microcontrollers, embedded systems, and firmware developmentSoftware-focused, working on embedded OS, application software, and system integration
Industry UsageCommon in electronics, IoT, automotive, and consumer device industriesCommon in consumer electronics, IoT, and software development companies

The Embedded Firmware Engineer Intern primarily focuses on developing low-level firmware for hardware devices, working closely with microcontrollers and embedded systems. In contrast, the Embedded Software Developer Intern works more on higher-level software components, often involving embedded operating systems and application development. Both roles require knowledge of programming languages like C/C++, but their focus areas differ, aligning with hardware versus software development within embedded systems.

How much do embedded firmware engineer interns make?

Embedded firmware engineer interns typically earn between $15 and $25 per hour, depending on location, company size, and level of experience. Interns often work part-time during the school year or full-time in the summer, gaining skills in C/C++ programming, debugging, and working with microcontrollers and embedded systems.

How to get an internship in embedded firmware engineering?

To secure an internship as an embedded firmware engineer, candidates should have a strong understanding of embedded systems, experience with programming languages like C or C++, and familiarity with microcontrollers and development tools such as IDEs and debuggers. Building a portfolio of personal or academic projects and obtaining relevant certifications can also improve chances. Applying to companies with internship programs and demonstrating practical skills during interviews are key steps.

Is embedded firmware engineering a good career?

Embedded firmware engineering is a growing field with strong demand in industries such as consumer electronics, automotive, and healthcare. It involves developing low-level software for hardware devices, requiring skills in programming languages like C and knowledge of hardware interfaces. The role offers opportunities for specialization, innovation, and stable employment, making it a viable career choice for those interested in embedded systems development.

What are the most commonly searched types of Embedded Firmware Engineer jobs in Washington, DC?

The most popular types of Embedded Firmware Engineer jobs in Washington, DC are:

What are popular job titles related to Embedded Firmware Engineer Intern jobs in Washington, DC?

For Embedded Firmware Engineer Intern jobs in Washington, DC, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Embedded Firmware Engineer Intern jobs in Washington, DC look for?

The top searched job categories for Embedded Firmware Engineer Intern jobs in Washington, DC are:

Senior Vulnerability Researcher

Two Six Technologies

Herndon, VA

$122K - $162K/yr

Full-time

Posted 6 days ago


Job description

Overview of Opportunity 

Join the Trusted Electronics & Effects team at Two Six Technologies in Herndon, Virginia, where we push the boundaries of software and firmware reverse engineering to uncover vulnerabilities in wireless and embedded systems. As part of our elite team of security researchers, you'll work alongside CNO developers and hardware engineers, conducting cutting-edge vulnerability research on complex, real-world targets.

Our government customers rely on us to deliver mission-critical security solutions, and we're looking for a Senior Vulnerability Researcher who thrives on reverse engineering embedded systems, discovering security weaknesses, and developing innovative proof-of-concept exploits. If you're passionate about wireless security, embedded firmware analysis, and making an impact on national security, we want you on our team.

What You'll Do:

  • Serve as a senior technical contributor to the reverse engineering of wireless and embedded systems, identifying vulnerabilities and assessing their security impact.
  • Develop proof-of-concept exploits for discovered vulnerabilities following DevOps best practices for keeping code bases organized and maintainable.
  • Analyze firmware, software protections, and wireless protocols to uncover security flaws.
  • Utilize and develop custom tools to analyze and manipulate software/firmware binaries.
  • Collaborate closely with CNO developers, vulnerability researchers, and hardware engineers in a fast-paced, small-team environment.
  • Solve complex technical challenges with no predefined solutions.

What You'll Need (Basic Qualifications):

  • Bachelor's (or higher) degree in Computer Science, Computer/Electrical Engineering, or a related field (or equivalent practical experience).
  • Experience developing, debugging, and scripting in C/C++ and Python within Linux command-line environments, with a strong emphasis on low-level programming, memory management, and system interaction for reverse engineering and vulnerability research.
  • Experience with reverse engineering and vulnerability research, using tools such as IDA Pro, Binary Ninja, or Ghidra.
  • Expertise in one or more of the following:
    • Firmware analysis (ARM, MIPS, PowerPC, RTOS).
    • Firmware rehosting using emulation tools such as QEMU
    • Fuzzing and exploit development.
    • Binary obfuscation and anti-analysis techniques.
    • Wireless protocols and radio signal analysis.
    • File system forensics and fault injection frameworks.
  • Knowledge of common network protocols TCP/IP, UDP, or HTTP
  • Ability to work in the Herndon, Virginia office daily.

Nice if you have:

  • Experience conducting vulnerability research on embedded systems
  • Experience with defeating modern migrations such as ASLR, DEP, and Stack Canaries
  • Knowledge of cellular standards such as 4G or 5G
  • Knowledge of low bandwidth communications such as RS485, RS232, CAN
  • Knowledge of Wifi, Bluetooth, Zigbee communication
  • Previous experience in a client-facing technical role

Clearance Requirement:

  • Active US Security clearance of Top Secret level and ability to obtain and maintain TS/SCI

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