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Embedded Software Developer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Embedded Software Engineer

Herndon, VA · On-site

$106K - $159K/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 ...

Embedded Software Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

$151K - $199K/yr

Embedded Software Engineer Apogee Research is at the forefront of a revolution in how the DoD operates: a turn towards compositional systems of systems instead of traditional monolithic architectures.

Embedded Software Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

$151K - $199K/yr

Embedded Software Engineer Apogee Research is at the forefront of a revolution in how the DoD operates: a turn towards compositional systems of systems instead of traditional monolithic architectures.

Software/Embedded Systems Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

$150K - $197K/yr

This role involves overseeing the management, auditing, and validation of embedded software rather than hands-on coding. You will work closely with hardware engineers to evaluate the impact of ...

Lead embedded software design efforts, including authoring and reviewing proposals; and scheduling ... Consult with hardware engineers and other engineering staff to evaluate hardware and software ...

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Embedded Software Developer information

See Virginia salary details

$32

$61

$91

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 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:
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 Engineer

Embedded Software Engineer

Two Six Technologies

Herndon, VA • On-site

$106K - $159K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 15 days ago


Job description

At Two Six Technologies, we build, deploy, and implement innovative products that solve the world's most complex challenges today. Through unrivaled collaboration and unwavering trust, we push the boundaries of what's possible to empower our team and support our customers in building a safer global future.
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 background in embedded system programming, security-oriented tooling, emulation, or computer network operations (CNO) development. If you are interested in leveraging these skills to support mission-driven research and deliver operational capabilities, the team wants to talk to you!
What you will do
  • Design, develop, and test embedded software to support offensive cybersecurity research and deliver mission-critical operational capabilities.
  • Build target-specific instrumentation and introspection tools while designing high-fidelity emulation targets for various embedded platforms.
  • Create and operationalize CNO tools and capabilities for embedded targets to support the Trusted Electronics & Effects business unit.
  • Execute assigned technical tasks autonomously and in a timely manner while building a deep understanding of company processes and customer mission requirements.

What you will need (basic qualifications)
  • Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or a related technical field; in place of a degree, comparable professional experience or a strong portfolio of relevant technical projects and coursework will be considered.
  • Minimum of 2 years of experience in one of the following fields: embedded software, security tooling, emulation, or CNO development (this may be satisfied through professional roles, significant academic research, or demonstrable project-based experience).
  • Proven experience with a low-level programming language (C, C++, etc.) and a scripting language (Python, Bash, etc.) to develop and automate technical solutions.
  • Ability to work in the Two Six office in Herndon, Virginia, daily.

Nice to have (preferred)
  • Functional understanding of embedded system design (interrupts, MMIO, peripherals, etc.)
  • Experience with system-level programming (memory management, task scheduling, concurrency, etc.)
  • Experience with QEMU or other virtualization.
  • Experience creating custom toolchains and build systems.
  • Experience developing introspection tooling.
  • Basic understanding of computer architecture (instruction sets, virtual memory, etc.)
  • Basic reverse engineering skills.

Security Clearance: Active Top Secret Clearance is required, with the ability to obtain and maintain a TS/SCI security clearance.
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Two Six Technologies is committed to providing competitive and comprehensive compensation packages that reflect the value we place on our employees and their contributions. We believe in rewarding skills, experience, and performance. Our offerings include but are not limited to, medical, dental, and vision insurance, life and disability insurance, retirement benefits, paid leave, tuition assistance and professional development.
The projected salary range listed for this position is annualized. This is a general guideline and not a guarantee of salary. Salary is one component of our total compensation package and the specific salary offered is determined by various factors, including, but not limited to education, experience, knowledge, skills, geographic location, as well as contract specific affordability and organizational requirements.
Salary Range
$106,133-$159,200 USD
Looking for other great opportunities? Check out Two Six Technologies Opportunities for all our Company's current openings!
Ready to make the first move towards growing your career? If so, check out the Two Six Technologies Candidate Journey! This will give you step-by-step directions on applying, what to expect during the application process, information about our rich benefits and perks along with our most frequently asked questions. If you are undecided and would like to learn more about us and how we are contributing to essential missions, check out our Two Six Technologies News page! We share information about the tech world around us and how we are making an impact! Still have questions, no worries! You can reach us at Contact Two Six Technologies. We are happy to connect and cover the information needed to assist you in reaching your next career milestone.
Two Six Technologies is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate in employment opportunities or practices based on race (including traits historically associated with race, such as hair texture, hair type and protective hair styles (e.g., braids, twists, locs and twists)), color, religion, national origin, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth or related medical conditions and lactation), sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age (40 and over), marital status, disability, genetic information, and protected veteran status or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law. For more information review the Two Six Technologies Equal Employment Opportunity and Affirmative Action Policy and the EEO Poster.
If you are an individual with a disability and would like to request reasonable workplace accommodation for any part of our employment process, please send an email to accommodations@twosixtech.com. Information provided will be kept confidential and used only to the extent required to provide needed reasonable accommodations.
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