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Embedded Firmware Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Embedded Software Test Engineer This role focuses on developing, executing, and maintaining ... Collaborate closely with software, firmware, and hardware engineering teams to troubleshoot issues ...

New

Senior Reverse Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

$134K - $184K/yr

Reverse engineering complex software or firmware targets, ranging from typical Windows/Linux binaries to embedded firmware running non-traditional computer architectures and operating systems

Reverse engineering complex software or firmware targets, ranging from typical Windows/Linux binaries to embedded firmware running non-traditional computer architectures and operating systems

Embedded Software Engineer

Herndon, VA · On-site

$123K - $151K/yr

An aerospace client is seeking a Full Time Embedded Software Engineer to join the team and will be responsible for implementing electrical components into hardware and firmware needed for our ...

New

STR is hiring an Embedded Systems Emulation Engineer to join our multidisciplinary team of ... Rehost unknown or sparsely documented firmware by analyzing binaries, identifying hardware ...

Responsibilities : • Reverse engineering complex software or firmware targets, ranging from typical Windows/Linux binaries to embedded firmware running non-traditional computer architectures and ...

Embedded Software Engineer

Herndon, VA · On-site

$135K - $177K/yr

An aerospace client is seeking a Full Time Embedded Software Engineer to join the team and will be responsible for implementing electrical components into hardware and firmware needed for our ...

New

Senior Reverse Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

$120K - $165K/yr

Responsibilities : • Reverse engineering complex software or firmware targets, ranging from typical Windows/Linux binaries to embedded firmware running non-traditional computer architectures and ...

Senior Reverse Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

$120K - $165K/yr

Responsibilities : • Reverse engineering complex software or firmware targets, ranging from typical Windows/Linux binaries to embedded firmware running non-traditional computer architectures and ...

Showing results 41-60

Embedded Firmware information

See Washington salary details

$83.2K

$138.2K

$185.7K

How much do embedded firmware jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for embedded firmware in Washington 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 are some common challenges faced by embedded firmware engineers, and how can they be addressed?

Embedded firmware engineers often encounter challenges such as resource constraints, debugging hardware-software interactions, and ensuring real-time performance. Working within limited memory and processing power requires efficient coding practices and thorough optimization. Additionally, close collaboration with hardware teams is essential to troubleshoot issues that may arise from tight integration with physical components. Staying updated with the latest tools and methodologies, along with strong problem-solving skills, helps address these challenges effectively.

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

To thrive as an Embedded Firmware Engineer, you need a strong background in computer engineering or electrical engineering, with expertise in C/C++ programming, microcontroller architectures, and hardware-software integration. Familiarity with tools like debuggers, oscilloscopes, version control systems (e.g., Git), and industry certifications such as Certified Embedded Systems Engineer can be beneficial. Problem-solving, attention to detail, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for diagnosing issues and collaborating with cross-functional teams. These skills and qualities are vital for developing reliable, efficient firmware that meets product requirements and ensures seamless operation of embedded devices.

What is an embedded firmware engineer?

Embedded firmware engineers are professionals who design, develop, and maintain the low-level software (firmware) that controls hardware devices. Their work involves writing code that directly interfaces with microcontrollers or processors, enabling devices such as appliances, automotive systems, medical devices, and consumer electronics to function as intended. They often work closely with hardware engineers to ensure seamless integration between hardware and software, optimizing performance and reliability. Embedded firmware engineers typically use programming languages like C or C++ and have a deep understanding of both hardware and software systems.

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

AspectEmbedded FirmwareEmbedded Software Developer
CredentialsTypically requires embedded systems or electronics background, often with certifications in embedded systemsRequires programming skills, often with degrees in computer science or software engineering
Work EnvironmentHardware-focused, working closely with microcontrollers, sensors, and hardware componentsSoftware-focused, developing applications that run on embedded systems
Industry UsageUsed in consumer electronics, automotive, medical devices, and industrial equipmentDevelops software for embedded systems across various industries

Embedded Firmware specialists focus on programming low-level code directly on hardware devices, often requiring hardware knowledge. Embedded Software Developers create higher-level software that runs on embedded systems, emphasizing coding and application development. Both roles are essential in embedded systems development but differ in scope and focus.

What job categories do people searching Embedded Firmware jobs in Washington look for? The top searched job categories for Embedded Firmware jobs in Washington are:
Infographic showing various Embedded Firmware job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $138,185 per year, or $66.4 per hour.

Embedded Software Test Engineer

Actalent

Herndon, VA • Hybrid

$60 - $77/hr

Contractor

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted yesterday

New


Job description

Job Title: Embedded Software Test EngineerJob Description

This role focuses on developing, executing, and maintaining automated test frameworks to ensure the quality and reliability of Battery Management System (BMS) products used in large-scale energy storage solutions. You will validate embedded software and hardware systems deployed globally, working hands-on with controllers, embedded devices, sensors, communication protocols, and physical hardware. The position emphasizes embedded systems testing rather than traditional software-only QA, combining strong quality assurance fundamentals with practical experience in scripting, networking, and embedded environments.

Responsibilities
  • Develop, execute, and maintain automated test cases for embedded Battery Management Systems (BMS).
  • Design and implement regression test plans and support ongoing release validation activities.
  • Create automation scripts using Python and Bash to validate embedded system functionality.
  • Execute tests directly on physical hardware, including controllers, sensors, and network-connected devices.
  • Perform system stress testing, fault injection testing, and reliability testing to evaluate system robustness.
  • Transfer, manipulate, and validate files on embedded Linux devices using SSH and FTP/SFTP.
  • Analyze logs and system outputs to identify, document, and help resolve software and hardware defects.
  • Verify communication across devices using Modbus TCP, Ethernet, TCP/IP, and related networking protocols.
  • Develop creative test strategies to expose system vulnerabilities, edge cases, and failure modes.
  • Document test cases, execution results, and defects using Jira, Xray, or similar test management tools.
  • Collaborate closely with software, firmware, and hardware engineering teams to troubleshoot issues and improve product quality.
  • Support manufacturing and deployment testing activities for energy storage systems.
  • Contribute to continuous improvement of test frameworks, tools, and processes for embedded systems validation.
Essential Skills
  • Bachelor's degree in Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or a related technical field.
  • 5+ years of experience in Quality Assurance, Test Engineering, Validation Engineering, or Test Automation.
  • Proven experience testing embedded systems, hardware/software integrated products, or industrial control systems.
  • Hands-on Python scripting experience for test automation.
  • Bash scripting experience within embedded environments.
  • Strong Linux troubleshooting and command-line skills.
  • Experience using SSH, FTP/SFTP, and remote device administration tools.
  • Solid understanding of TCP/IP networking fundamentals.
  • Experience validating networked devices and communications.
  • Demonstrated experience in defect reporting and test documentation.
  • Experience developing test plans, test procedures, and regression testing strategies.
  • Ability to work directly with embedded devices, controllers, sensors, and physical hardware in a lab environment.
Additional Skills & Qualifications
  • Experience with Battery Management Systems (BMS), energy storage, electric vehicles (EV), or power systems.
  • Familiarity with Modbus TCP or other industrial communication protocols.
  • Experience with Jira and Xray Test Management or similar test management platforms.
  • Knowledge of hardware interfaces, controllers, sensors, and data acquisition systems.
  • Experience automating test execution across multiple connected devices.
  • Understanding of file integrity validation techniques such as CRC and hash validation.
  • Experience analyzing system logs and identifying root causes of failures.
  • Strong problem-solving mindset and ability to design creative test strategies.
  • Effective communication skills for cross-functional collaboration with software, firmware, and hardware teams.
Work Environment

This is a hybrid role with three days in the office and two days working from home each week. You will work directly on the Battery Management System hardware and embedded Linux devices in a hands-on lab environment, interacting with controllers, sensors, and network-connected equipment. The position involves frequent use of Linux command-line tools, SSH, FTP/SFTP, networking utilities, and test management platforms such as Jira and Xray. The environment supports collaboration with software, firmware, and hardware engineering teams and emphasizes rigorous testing, continuous improvement, and high-quality delivery of large-scale energy storage solutions.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract position based out of Herndon, VA.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $60.00 - $77.00/hr.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: • Medical, dental & vision • Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital • 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available • Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) • Short and long-term disability • Health Spending Account (HSA) • Transportation benefits • Employee Assistance Program • Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

Workplace Type

This is a hybrid position in Herndon,VA.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Aug 14, 2026.

About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 20,000 consultants and 5,000 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500. We are proud to be an Engineering News-Record (ENR) Top 500 Design Firm for our engineering design services and a ClearlyRated Best of Staffing® winner for both client and talent service.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email actalentaccommodation@actalentservices.com for other accommodation options.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI): We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.


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About Actalent

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Actalent connects passion with purpose. Our scalable talent solutions and services capabilities drive value and results and provide the expertise to help our customers achieve more. Every day, our experts around the globe are making an impact. We're supporting critical initiatives in engineering and sciences that advance how companies serve the world. Actalent promotes consultant care and engagement through experiences that enable continuous development. Our people are the difference. Actalent is an operating company of Allegis Group, the global leader in talent solutions.

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Hanover, MD, US

Year founded

1983

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