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Embedded Software Developer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

JRC Careers

Embedded Software Developer

Dahlgren, VA · On-site

JRC is seeking an Embedded Software Engineer to design, develop, and test embedded software and firmware solutions for microcontroller, RTOS, and Linux-based systems. This role involves hardware ...

ITW Avery Weigh-Tronix

Embedded Software Engineer

VA

$130K - $171K/yr

The Embedded Software Engineer is responsible for the design, development, testing, and support of embedded software solutions for both existing and new products, including new hardware bring-up, low ...

Two Six Technologies

Embedded Software Engineer

Herndon, VA

$135K - $177K/yr

Overview of Opportunity Two Six Technologies is actively seeking an Embedded Software Engineer to join our Trusted Electronics & Effects team in Herndon, Virginia. We are looking for someone with a ...

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How much do embedded software developer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 24, 2026, the average hourly pay for embedded software developer in Virginia is $61.19, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $49.33 and $69.13 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.

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.

Can I make 200k a year as a software engineer?

Embedded Software Developers can potentially earn $200,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, specialized skills in areas like real-time systems or safety-critical applications, and working in high-cost-of-living regions or for large companies. Achieving this salary often requires advanced knowledge of embedded systems, certifications, and a strong track record of project success. However, salaries vary widely based on location, industry, and individual expertise.

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 are popular job titles related to Embedded Software Developer jobs in Virginia? For Embedded Software Developer jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Embedded Software Developer jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Embedded Software Developer jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Embedded Software Developer jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Embedded Software Developer job openings:
Embedded Software Developer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Embedded Software Developer job openings in Virginia as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, and 16% Part Time. Highlights an 81% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $127,266 per year, or $61.2 per hour.

Embedded Software Developer

JRC Careers

Dahlgren, VA

Other

Posted 3 days ago

Job description

Join JRC's SB&IO Team!
JRC is seeking an Embedded Software Engineer to design, develop, and test embedded software and firmware solutions for microcontroller, RTOS, and Linux-based systems. This role involves hardware/software integration, low-level driver development, performance optimization, secure coding, debugging, testing, and cross-functional collaboration to support mission-critical embedded systems and end-to-end solution performance.

What You'll Do

  • Design, implement, and test embedded software solutions in C/C++ for microcontrollers, real time operating systems (RTOS), or Linux based embedded systems.
  • Develop firmware and low-level drivers to interface with sensors, communication buses, and custom hardware.
  • Support integration of embedded software with hardware components, including bring up, debugging, and troubleshooting.
  • Participate in system architecture discussions and assist in defining requirements and design specifications.
  • Implement secure coding practices and support cyber-hardened embedded software designs.
  • Conduct unit testing, integration testing, and performance validation.
  • Analyze system logs, memory usage, and timing behavior to optimize performance.
  • Create and maintain technical documentation, including design descriptions, interface control documents (ICDs), test procedures, and user guides.
  • Participate in Agile sprint cycles, technical reviews, and code walkthroughs.
  • Provide technical support for fielded systems and assist with defect resolution.
  • Collaborate with electrical, systems, and test engineering teams to ensure end to end solution performance.

What You Bring to the Table

  • An active DoD security clearance at the SECRET level or above (or have held an active DoD clearance within the last 2 years)
  • A Bachelor of Science (BS) degree from an accredited college or university in an engineering, scientific, or technical discipline.
  • Six (6) years professional technical experience which includes at least four (4) years specialized experience performing computer hardware engineering, software design, coding and compilation of code; computer or software requirements
  • management, computer systems or software integration; and utilizing systems engineering software tools.
  • Specialized experience shall also include demonstrated ability to engineer
  • complex systems with integrated software and hardware solutions. An example includes experience related to weapons systems and/or Navy programs utilizing agile software design processes, such as, but not limited to, Python, R, HTML, C/C++, Unix, and Linux.
  • Strong understanding of SharePoint and Microsoft Teams, including experience building and managing sites, pages, lists, and libraries.
  • Strong experience developing embedded software in C and/or C++.
  • Experience working with microcontrollers, SoCs, or embedded Linux systems.
  • Hands on experience with embedded toolchains, debugging tools (JTAG, SWD), oscilloscopes, logic analyzers, or serial interfaces.
  • Knowledge of embedded communication protocols such as UART, SPI, I2C, CAN, Ethernet, or similar.
  • Strong understanding of real time constraints, interrupts, and low-level hardware interactions.
  • Familiarity with version control systems (Git preferred).
  • Ability to analyze technical problems and produce reliable solutions under schedule constraints.
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills.

Bonus Points

  • Experience with RTOS environments (FreeRTOS, VxWorks, QNX, RTEMS, etc.).
  • Experience with ARM Cortex processors or similar embedded architectures.
  • Familiarity with Python for test automation and scripting.
  • Experience with embedded security, trusted computing, or secure boot.
  • Background in DoD, Navy systems, or safety critical applications.
  • Experience with modeling tools, interface definition, or hardware simulation.

Apply