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Embedded Software Developer Jobs in Maryland (NOW HIRING)

Visionist software developers perform reverse engineering and low-level development to identify ... Your contributions are... - Design, develop, debug, and modify embedded software - Participate in ...

Embedded Developer

Annapolis, MD · On-site

$69K - $158K/yr

As an embedded software engineer, you know how to create and maintain crucial pieces of software. You use your knowledge to write and optimize code that creates a bridge between pieces of software ...

Embedded Developer

Annapolis, MD · On-site

$69K - $158K/yr

As an embedded software engineer, you know how to create and maintain crucial pieces of software. You use your knowledge to write and optimize code that creates a bridge between pieces of software ...

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Embedded Software Developer information

See Maryland salary details

$32

$59

$90

How much do embedded software developer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for embedded software developer in Maryland is $59.90, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $48.27 and $67.64 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What engineers make $500,000?

Highly experienced engineers in specialized fields such as software engineering, data science, or executive roles can earn $500,000 or more annually. These positions often require advanced skills, certifications, and leadership responsibilities, typically found in senior or executive levels within technology companies. Compensation at this level may include base salary, bonuses, and stock options.

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

To thrive as an Embedded Software Developer, you need a strong understanding of programming languages like C/C++, experience with microcontroller architectures, and typically a degree in computer engineering or a related field. Familiarity with real-time operating systems (RTOS), debugging tools, and version control systems such as Git is often required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication set standout developers apart. These capabilities ensure robust, efficient, and reliable software development for critical hardware systems.

What does an embedded developer do?

An embedded software developer designs, develops, and tests software for embedded systems such as microcontrollers and hardware devices. They write code in languages like C or C++, often work with hardware specifications, and use tools like debuggers and oscilloscopes to ensure the software functions reliably within hardware constraints.

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

AspectEmbedded Software DeveloperFirmware Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or related fields; programming skills in C/C++Similar credentials; often requires experience with hardware and low-level programming
Work EnvironmentDevelops software for embedded systems in various industries like automotive, consumer electronicsFocuses on designing and implementing firmware directly on hardware devices
Industry UsageCommonly employed in electronics, automotive, IoT, and consumer device companiesPrimarily used in hardware-centric industries like aerospace, medical devices, and consumer electronics

Both roles require strong programming skills in C/C++ and familiarity with embedded systems. While Embedded Software Developers focus on creating software that runs on embedded devices, Firmware Engineers work closely with hardware to develop low-level code that directly interacts with hardware components. The roles often overlap, but Firmware Engineers typically have a deeper understanding of hardware architecture and low-level programming.

What are some common challenges faced by Embedded Software Developers when integrating software with hardware components?

Embedded Software Developers often encounter challenges related to hardware-software integration, such as debugging timing issues, managing limited memory and processing resources, and ensuring reliable communication between devices. These challenges require strong problem-solving skills and close collaboration with hardware engineers to diagnose and resolve issues efficiently. Additionally, developers must frequently work with low-level programming languages and proprietary hardware interfaces, which can require continuous learning and adaptation.

Is embedded software developer a good career?

Embedded software development is a stable and in-demand field, as it involves creating software for hardware devices such as IoT gadgets, automotive systems, and medical equipment. It typically requires knowledge of programming languages like C or C++, and skills in hardware interfaces and real-time operating systems, offering opportunities for growth and specialization.

Will AI replace embedded developers?

Embedded software developers design and implement software for hardware devices, and AI is unlikely to fully replace them due to the need for specialized knowledge of hardware constraints, real-time systems, and safety requirements. Instead, AI tools can assist developers by automating routine tasks and improving efficiency, but human expertise remains essential for complex problem-solving and system integration.

What are Embedded Software Developers?

Embedded Software Developers are engineers who design, develop, and maintain software that operates on specialized hardware systems, such as microcontrollers, IoT devices, automotive systems, and consumer electronics. Their work involves programming in low-level languages like C or C++ to ensure software interacts efficiently with hardware components. They often work closely with hardware engineers to optimize system performance, reliability, and resource usage. Embedded Software Developers must also consider constraints like memory, power consumption, and real-time processing when building robust solutions.
What job categories do people searching Embedded Software Developer jobs in Maryland look for? The top searched job categories for Embedded Software Developer jobs in Maryland are:
Infographic showing various Embedded Software Developer job openings in Maryland as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 9% Contract. Highlights an 82% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 15% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $124,585 per year, or $59.9 per hour.
Principal Embedded Software Engineer

Principal Embedded Software Engineer

Raytheon

Columbia, MD • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


Raytheon rating

9.1

Company rating: 9.1 out of 10

Based on 95 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

3rd of 527 rated manufacturers


Job description

Date Posted:

2026-04-21

Country:

United States of America

Location:

US-MD-COLUMBIA-7100 ~ 7100 Columbia Gateway Dr ~ COLUMBIA GATEWAY, Ste 160

Position Role Type:

Onsite

U.S. Citizen, U.S. Person, or Immigration Status Requirements:

The ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. government issued security clearance is required.​ U.S. citizenship is required, as only U.S. citizens are eligible for a security clearance

Security Clearance Type:

DoD Clearance: Secret

Security Clearance Status:

Active and existing security clearance required after day 1

At Raytheon, the foundation of everything we do is rooted in our values and a higher calling – to help our nation and allies defend freedoms and deter aggression. We bring the strength of more than 100 years of experience and renowned engineering expertise to meet the needs of today’s mission and stay ahead of tomorrow’s threat. Our team solves tough, meaningful problems that create a safer, more secure world. 

Raytheon's Subsystem Engineering and Photonics group is actively seeking a Principal Embedded Software Engineer to join our group in Columbia, MD. The Subsystem Engineering and Photonics Group is a hands-on, multi-disciplinary engineering team that works to design, develop, and fabricate the next generation of RF and photonic systems.  The Principal Embedded Software Engineer will be responsible for supporting our design and testing efforts by working with the engineering team to develop and implement firmware solutions in prototype hardware demonstrations.

What You Will Do:

  • Designing, implementing, testing, and debugging integrated embedded real-time software within heterogenous systems composed of firmware and hardware.

  • Collaborate in a multi-discipline team setting to solve complex engineering problems.

  • Perform hands-on integration and troubleshooting of solutions to ensure functionality.

  • Be responsible for significant portions of the embedded code base, becoming the subject matter expert in those areas.

  • Assist the team in elevating our software development practices.

  • Perform and participate in internal and external technical reviews.

  • Independently drive projects and execute to program schedules and budget.

  • Travel up to 10%, with some overnight travel.

  • This 1st shift role will be 100% onsite and based in Columbia, MD.

Qualifications You Must Have:

  • Typically a degree in a Science, Technology, Engineering, or Mathematics (STEM) and a minimum of 8 years of prior relevant experience.

  • Experience in at least 4 of the following categories:

    • Software-defined radio.

    • Signal processing.

    • Real-time embedded software/firmware development.

    • Embedded Linux.

    • ARM processors and system on a chip (SoC) systems.

    • FPGA development using Verilog, VHDL, or high-level synthesis tools.

    • Experience with Python or C programming.

  • The ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. government issued security clearance is required. U.S. citizenship is required, as only U.S. citizens are eligible for a security clearance.​

Qualifications We Prefer:

  • Degree in Electrical Engineering highly preferred.

  • Experience in digital signal processing.

  • Experience working with RF or Photonic sensor systems.

  • Experience with embedded processor and System on a Chip development for FPGA devices.

  • Familiarity with the Linux environment and commands.

  • Experience in rapid prototyping and hardware integration.

  • Self-motivated problem solver with a positive attitude and willingness to learn.

  • Self-directed – Able to complete tasks with minimum oversight.

  • Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work in a team environment.

What We Offer:

  • Our values drive our actions, behaviors, and performance with a vision for a safer, more connected world. At RTX we value: Safety, Trust, Respect, Accountability, Collaboration, and Innovation.

  • This position offers relocation based on candidate eligibility.

Learn More & Apply Now

  • Please consider the following role type definition as you apply for this role. Onsite: Employees who are working in Onsite roles will work primarily onsite.

  • Clearance Information: This position requires a security clearance. DCSA Consolidated Adjudication Services (DCSA CAS), an agency of the Department of Defense, handles and adjudicates the security clearance process. More information about Security Clearances can be found on the US Department of State government website here: https://www.state.gov/m/ds/clearances/c10978.htm

As part of our commitment to maintaining a secure hiring process, candidates may be asked to attend select steps of the interview process in-person at one of our office locations, regardless of whether the role is designated as on-site, hybrid or remote.

The salary range for this role is 118,300 USD - 224,900 USD. The salary range provided is a good faith estimate representative of all experience levels. RTX considers several factors when extending an offer, including but not limited to, the role, function and associated responsibilities, a candidate’s work experience, location, education/training, and key skills. Hired applicants may be eligible for benefits, including but not limited to, medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short-term disability, long-term disability, 401(k) match, flexible spending accounts, flexible work schedules, employee assistance program, Employee Scholar Program, parental leave, paid time off, and holidays. Specific benefits are dependent upon the specific business unit as well as whether or not the position is covered by a collective-bargaining agreement. Hired applicants may be eligible for annual short-term and/or long-term incentive compensation programs depending on the level of the position and whether or not it is covered by a collective-bargaining agreement. Payments under these annual programs are not guaranteed and are dependent upon a variety of factors including, but not limited to, individual performance, business unit performance, and/or the company’s performance. This role is a U.S.-based role. If the successful candidate resides in a U.S. territory, the appropriate pay structure and benefits will apply. RTX anticipates the application window closing approximately 40 days from the date the notice was posted. However, factors such as candidate flow and business necessity may require RTX to shorten or extend the application window.

RTX is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability or veteran status, or any other applicable state or federal protected class. RTX provides affirmative action in employment for qualified Individuals with a Disability and Protected Veterans in compliance with Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act and the Vietnam Era Veterans’ Readjustment Assistance Act.

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