1

Embedded Linux Developer Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

We are seeking an experienced Linux Developer to join our engineering team. The ideal candidate ... Familiarity with embedded systems or performance-critical environments * Strong debugging skills ...

We are seeking an experienced Linux Developer to join our engineering team. The ideal candidate ... Familiarity with embedded systems or performance-critical environments * Strong debugging skills ...

Embedded Software Engineer

Germantown, MD · On-site

$133K - $175K/yr

As an Embedded Software Engineer, you will be responsible for product design, development, and ... Proficient in Embedded Linux (Peta Linux, OpenWrt, Yocto, etc.) * Experience with Embedded Linux ...

Embedded Software Engineer

Germantown, MD · On-site

$133K - $175K/yr

As an Embedded Software Engineer, you will be responsible for product design, development, and ... Proficient in Embedded Linux (Peta Linux, OpenWrt, Yocto, etc.) * Experience with Embedded Linux ...

Embedded Linux or RTOS (VxWorks, pSOS, QNX,...) * C/C++ * Python * Network Programming (BSD Sockets) * Working in an Agile Environment * Must have Great Communication and Writing Skills Desired ...

Embedded Linux or RTOS (VxWorks, pSOS, QNX,...) * C/C++ * Python * Network Programming (BSD Sockets) * Working in an Agile Environment * Must have Great Communication and Writing Skills Desired ...

Embedded Linux or RTOS (VxWorks, pSOS, QNX,...) * C/C++ * Python * Network Programming (BSD Sockets) * Working in an Agile Environment * Must have Great Communication and Writing Skills Desired ...

Embedded Software Engineer

Hanover, MD

$129K - $170K/yr

About the Role Ciena is looking for a Software Engineer to join the ONU firmware development team ... Key Responsibilities - Develop and maintain embedded Linux firmware on OpenWrt based ONU systems ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Embedded Linux Developer information

See Washington salary details

$96.8K

$125.1K

$155.7K

How much do embedded linux developer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 19, 2026, the average yearly pay for embedded linux developer in Washington is $125,083.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $114,400.00 and $133,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Embedded Linux Developers?

Embedded Linux Developers are software engineers who specialize in designing, developing, and maintaining software for embedded systems that run on the Linux operating system. These professionals work on devices such as routers, IoT devices, automotive systems, and industrial machines, integrating Linux-based solutions tailored to hardware constraints. Their responsibilities include configuring the Linux kernel, developing device drivers, optimizing system performance, and ensuring reliable communication between hardware and software components. They must be proficient in C/C++, scripting, and have a strong understanding of Linux internals and embedded hardware.

What are some common challenges faced by Embedded Linux Developers when integrating hardware and software components?

Embedded Linux Developers often encounter challenges such as managing hardware-software compatibility, optimizing system performance, and troubleshooting driver issues. Working closely with hardware engineers, they must ensure that the Linux kernel and device drivers are correctly configured to communicate with custom hardware. Debugging can be complex due to limited system resources and the need for real-time performance. Effective collaboration and strong problem-solving skills are essential for resolving these integration challenges.

Who earns more, VLSI or embedded?

Embedded Linux developers typically earn less than VLSI engineers, as VLSI involves specialized hardware design and often requires advanced skills in semiconductor technology, which command higher salaries. VLSI roles usually offer higher compensation due to the complexity and demand for expertise in chip design and fabrication, while embedded Linux roles focus on software development for embedded systems with generally lower salary ranges.

What is the difference between Embedded Linux Developer vs Firmware Engineer?

AspectEmbedded Linux DeveloperFirmware Engineer
Required SkillsProficiency in Linux kernel, C/C++, embedded systems, device driversLow-level programming, C/C++, microcontrollers, hardware interfaces
Work EnvironmentEmbedded Linux systems, development boards, Linux-based OSMicrocontrollers, hardware prototyping, real-time systems
Industry UsageConsumer electronics, IoT devices, automotiveConsumer electronics, aerospace, industrial equipment

Embedded Linux Developers focus on developing software for Linux-based embedded systems, working with Linux kernels and device drivers. Firmware Engineers work on low-level hardware programming, often with microcontrollers and real-time systems. While both roles require C/C++ skills and embedded systems knowledge, Embedded Linux Developers typically work in Linux environments, whereas Firmware Engineers focus on hardware-level programming.

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

To thrive as an Embedded Linux Developer, you need a solid understanding of Linux internals, C/C++ programming, and embedded systems architecture, typically supported by a degree in computer science or electrical engineering. Familiarity with build systems (like Yocto or Buildroot), version control (Git), and debugging tools (GDB, oscilloscope) is crucial. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective teamwork help set outstanding developers apart in this role. These abilities ensure reliable, efficient embedded solutions that meet complex technical requirements and integrate seamlessly into larger systems.

Is embedded systems still a good career in 2026?

Embedded Linux development remains a strong career in 2026 due to the continued growth of IoT, automotive, and industrial automation sectors that rely on embedded systems. Skilled developers with knowledge of Linux, C/C++, and hardware interfaces are in demand, and the field offers opportunities for specialization and advancement.

How to become an embedded Linux developer?

To become an embedded Linux developer, you should have a strong understanding of Linux operating systems, experience with C and C++ programming, and knowledge of hardware interfaces and embedded systems. Gaining hands-on experience through projects, learning about cross-compilation, and familiarizing yourself with tools like Yocto or Buildroot are also important. Certifications or training in embedded systems can further enhance your qualifications.

Is learning embedded Linux worth it?

For an Embedded Linux Developer, learning embedded Linux is valuable because it is widely used in IoT devices, automotive systems, and consumer electronics. Gaining skills in Linux kernel development, device drivers, and tools like Yocto can enhance job prospects and technical expertise in embedded systems. Proficiency in C programming and understanding hardware interfaces are also important for success in this field.

What Does an Embedded Linux Developer Do?

As an embedded Linux developer, your duties and responsibilities are to design, test, implement, and integrate software solutions for specific pieces of hardware. Embedded technology often refers to hardware that is not commonly considered a computer, but is controlled by applications or an operating system, such as Linux. These include watches, car engines, and televisions, for example. As an embedded Linux developer, you work closely with programmers, optimization experts, quality assurance technicians, and product engineering designers, as well as all of your external customers.

What job categories do people searching Embedded Linux Developer jobs in Washington look for? The top searched job categories for Embedded Linux Developer jobs in Washington are:
Embedded Linux Software Systems Engineer

Embedded Linux Software Systems Engineer

Kastle Systems

Falls Church, VA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 11 days ago


Kastle Systems rating

9.2

Company rating: 9.2 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

3rd of 102 rated security


Job description

Overview
Kastle Systems is looking for an Embedded Linux Software Systems Engineer to join our team in Falls Church, VA to help us grow our product offerings.
As a Kastle Systems Embedded Linux Software Systems Engineer, you will have an opportunity to contribute to our award winning* highly available and distributed platform that is deployed on platforms ranging from microcontrollers, headless Linux IoT controllers, datacenters, and the AWS and Azure clouds.
Our products work to keep people safe while adding convenience and providing excellent customer service to the building managers and enterprise customers that use our Security-As-A-Service platform. The successful candidate will be one who is looking to make a big impact in the company in which they join. This position will be building features into our brand new line of announced and unannounced hardware.
In addition to a great work environment, we provide excellent benefits (Medical/Dental/Vision, 401K, Tuition/Training Assistance, BrightHorizons Lifestyle Assistance, Wellness Program, etc.). We are proud to be a Certified Great Place to Work with awards for being a Top Work Place with Top DE&I Practices! For more informaton about what it's like to work with us, please visit Kastle Careers.
In addition to a great work environment, we provide excellent benefits (Medical/Dental/Vision, 401K, Tuition/Training Assistance, BrightHorizons Lifestyle Assistance, Wellness Program, etc.) and we're proud to be a Certified Great Place to Work! For more information about what it's like to work with us, please visit Kastle Careers.
Responsibilities
• Build and maintain Kastle's embedded linux platform using BuildRoot, Yocto, or similar
embedded linux platform enablement tools.
• Build and maintain Kastle's embedded linux platform's supporting infrastructure, such as package and image management, shell scripts, and contribute to monitoring systems.
• Design, program, and write programs that run on IoT Linux (Headless) environments. Programs are written in a variety of languages, including C/C++, Python and shell scripting.
• Ensures Kastle's linux platforms comply to all applicable security standards and best practices.
• Contribute to other Kastle linux-based platform development and maintenance.
• Track issue progress in corporate issue tracking system (Confluence Cloud)
• Collaborate on and thoroughly document design decisions.
• Support field deployments. Diagnose faults and propose solutions to management.
• Work with QA to ensure adequate test coverage exists for projects. Develop test harnesses as needed to facilitate testing of individual hardware components.
• Troubleshooting, debugging, maintaining, and improving existing software and hardware
• Develop technical documentation to aid in support and future development
Qualifications
  • Bachelors Degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering or similar degree that provides a solid foundation in computer programming.
  • 4+ years experience with IoT flavors of Linux (GUI-less), with at least 2+ years using either managing BuildRoot, Yocto, or a similar embedded linux platform tool.
  • Experience developing against standard web apis (REST)
  • Demonstrated experience with setting up devices in the field with different network conditions at play (DHCP, NAT, port forwarding, etc)
  • Excellent written and verbal US English communication skills
  • Ability to comprehend electrical schematics and their implications to embedded software.
  • Understanding of asymmetric and symmetric cryptography.

Company Overview
The property technology space is growing rapidly, and Kastle is leading the way. Kastle is the leader in managed security, with a track record of introducing innovative technologies to serve over 460M square feet of real estate globally. Clients span the commercial and multifamily real estate, education, and construction industries and the customers they serve. Delivering a world class customer experience drives everything we do, and Kastle's mission is to be our customers' best service provider and to ensure that their security the most effective, efficient and convenient. Kastle's integrated security solution, including access control, video, and remote video monitoring, significantly reduces costs and improves the critically important 24x7 performance for building owners, developers and tenants.
Equal Opportunity Statement
At Kastle, we believe that diversity makes us stronger - at work and in the world. Kastle Systems International, LLC is an Equal Opportunity / Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status, marital status, pregnancy or any other basis protected by applicable federal or state laws. For more information, please visit Kastle Careers.
#LI-JF1