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Embedded Software Engineer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

ECS

Software/Embedded Systems Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

$130K - $210K/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 ...

M Force

Controls Software Engineer

Fredericksburg, VA · On-site

$100K - $120K/yr

The ideal Controls Software Engineer will have experience working with robotics systems, real-time embedded software, and cross-disciplinary debugging across mechanical, electrical, and control ...

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All JobsEmbedded Software Engineer JobsEmbedded Software Engineer Jobs in Virginia

Embedded Software Engineer information

See Virginia salary details

$69.4K

$152.1K

$172.5K

How much do embedded software engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for embedded software engineer in Virginia is $152,068.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $130,400.00 and $171,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

AspectEmbedded Software EngineerFirmware Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's in Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or related fields; often requires knowledge of C/C++Similar credentials; strong C/C++ skills, understanding of hardware
Work EnvironmentDevelops software for embedded systems in various industries like automotive, IoT, consumer electronicsFocuses on low-level hardware interaction, often working closely with hardware teams
Industry UsageCommon in automotive, medical devices, consumer electronics, industrial automationPrimarily in consumer electronics, IoT devices, and hardware startups

Embedded Software Engineers design and develop software for embedded systems, focusing on system-level programming. Firmware Engineers write low-level code that directly interacts with hardware components. While both roles require similar skills and work environments, Embedded Software Engineers often work on a broader range of software, whereas Firmware Engineers focus on hardware-specific code. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

What Is an Embedded Software Engineer?

Embedded software is installed on devices that operate like personal computers. Examples of embedded software can be found in geographic positioning systems, or GPS devices, smart watches, and calculators. Embedded software engineers perform a range of embedded software engineering functions, including running system software updates and designing software for embedded systems. Embedded software engineers also advise on product development, approve new product designs, and optimize the product lifecycle.

Will AI replace embedded system engineers?

Embedded software engineers design and develop software for embedded systems, and while AI tools can assist with coding and testing, they are unlikely to fully replace the need for human expertise in understanding hardware constraints, system integration, and troubleshooting. AI can enhance productivity but requires skilled engineers to oversee, interpret, and implement solutions effectively.

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

To thrive as an Embedded Software Engineer, you need a solid background in computer science or electrical engineering, strong programming skills in C/C++, and experience with embedded systems design. Familiarity with real-time operating systems (RTOS), microcontroller architectures, debugging tools, and version control systems like Git is typically required. Excellent problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication skills set top engineers apart. These competencies are crucial for building reliable, efficient, and safe embedded solutions that meet industry standards.

What are Embedded Software Engineers?

Embedded Software Engineers are professionals who design, develop, and maintain software that runs on embedded systems—specialized computing devices that are part of larger systems, such as cars, medical devices, industrial machines, and consumer electronics. Their work involves programming in languages like C or C++ to interact closely with hardware components, ensuring optimal performance, reliability, and safety. Embedded Software Engineers work closely with hardware engineers to integrate and test software with physical devices, often working within real-time and resource-constrained environments. Their expertise is crucial in developing the 'brains' of many devices we use every day.

What do embedded software engineers do?

Embedded software engineers develop, test, and maintain software that runs on hardware devices such as microcontrollers, sensors, and embedded systems. They write code primarily in C or C++, often using specialized tools and real-time operating systems to ensure efficient and reliable device performance.

How does an Embedded Software Engineer typically collaborate with hardware engineers during product development?

Embedded Software Engineers work closely with hardware engineers throughout the product development lifecycle. Collaboration often involves joint design reviews, debugging sessions, and integration testing to ensure software and hardware function seamlessly together. Effective communication is crucial, as changes in hardware can impact software functionality and vice versa. This cross-disciplinary teamwork helps resolve technical issues quickly and ensures the end product meets performance and reliability standards.

What engineer makes $500,000 a year?

Highly experienced senior engineers in specialized fields such as software, aerospace, or petroleum engineering can earn $500,000 or more annually, often through a combination of base salary, bonuses, and stock options. These roles typically require advanced skills, certifications, and extensive industry experience.

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

Embedded Software Engineers 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-paying industries such as aerospace or automotive. Achieving this salary often requires advanced certifications, a strong track record, and positions in regions with higher compensation levels. Entry-level or general roles typically offer lower salaries, but senior engineers with expertise in embedded systems can reach or exceed this income level.
More about Embedded Software Engineer jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Embedded Software Engineer jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Embedded Software Engineer jobs in Virginia are:
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What cities in Virginia are hiring for Embedded Software Engineer jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Embedded Software Engineer job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Embedded Software Engineer jobs in VA? For Embedded Software Engineer jobs in VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Embedded Software Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Embedded Software Engineer job openings in Virginia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 83% In-person, and 17% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $152,068 per year, or $73.1 per hour.
Lead Software Engineer-Embedded Computing Software-Onsite

Lead Software Engineer-Embedded Computing Software-Onsite

Curtiss-Wright

Ashburn, VA • On-site

$145K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 10 days ago

Curtiss-Wright rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 35 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

78th of 427 rated machine equipment manufacturers

Job description

Lead Software Engineer-Embedded Computing Software- Defense Solutions-Onsite
Curtiss Wright is seeking an experienced Lead Software Engineer-Embedded Computing Software to join our Defense Solutions Group.
As our Lead Software Engineer-Embedded Computing Software, you will oversee and perform the design, development, enhancement, and testing of complex software for embedded processing products used in US DoD and other secure applications. The Lead Software Development engineer also serves as a technical expert who drives architecture decisions, resolves advanced software issues, and ensures high-quality solutions that are aligned with product, customer, and business needs.
Location: Ashburn, VA
Salary Information: $ 108,900.00 - $145,200.00 per year plus bonus
Please note that the salary range information provided is a general guideline only, reflecting a position based in Virginia. Criteria such as the candidate's qualifications and relevant experience, the scope of the specific position, as well as market and business considerations will be evaluated when extending an offer.
We Take Care of Our People
Paid Time Off I 401K with Employer Match and Profit Sharing I Health and Wellness Benefits I Learning and Development Opportunities I Referral Program I Competitive Pay I Recognition I Employee Stock Purchase Plan I Inclusive & Supportive Culture
Your Challenge:
  • Participate in discussions and analyze marketing and product line managers' product plans and requirements and generate the software specifications and requirements for new products and enhancements to current products. Assist in Bids and Proposals (B&P) efforts, including generating engineering labor and material estimates based on requirements and defined scope of effort.
  • Collaborate with systems engineering and hardware development teams, and work with technical staff to create sustainable solutions and develop resolutions for software and/or hardware problems.
  • Plan, design, develop, and test new embedded computing software or complex enhancements to existing software for embedded systems based on specifications, and in compliance to industrial, military, and aerospace standards.
  • Implement and integrate, or debug embedded software including bootloaders (BIOS, SlimBootLoader and U-Boot), device drivers (Linux and VxWorks), customized applications and embedded test software, and product simulation and production test software.
  • Diagnose and resolve advanced software defects by collaborating with cross-functional technical staff and applying expert-level analytical and troubleshooting skills
  • Evaluate and respond to customer-reported issues, recommending and implementing software modifications or enhancements to improve functionality and user experience
  • Assist in the development of software design and test documentation, and user manuals.

What You Bring:
  • U.S. citizenship and active US DoD Clearance required.
  • Bachelor's degree in computer science, Computer Engineering, Software Engineering, or a related technical field; advanced degree preferred.
  • 8-12+ years of progressive software development experience, including ownership of complex applications or subsystems. 5+ years' experience developing software systems and 4+ years software project lead experience
  • Competencies in computer architecture, development of real-time embedded software, and engineering process discipline.
  • Hands-on and demonstrable experience with software development using C/C++, Linux (Red Hat, LynxOS, WindRiver), VxWorks (7.x), Linux and VxWorks device drivers, Scripting(bash/csh), high-level application software, Python, LabVIEW and IPMI.
  • Hands-on and demonstrable experience with development tools such as IDEs (Visual Studio, Eclipse-based), AMD/Xilinx Vivado/Vitis, Petalinux, GCC, CMake, Yocto, and MS Office.
  • Hands-on and demonstrable experience with with Intel x86 Processors, ARM, and AMD Zynq MPSoCs.
  • Knowledge and experience with protocol/standard, e.g., Ethernet, Infiniband, RDMA, PCIe Gen3/4, SPI, I2C, and RS232/RS422
  • Hands-on and demonstrable experience with laboratory debugging equipment and tools, e.g., Oscilloscope, Logic Analyzer, Spectrum Analyzer, and JTAG emulators
  • Proficiency with requirements management (IBM Rational DOORS), source code control (git, Bitbucket), JIRA, & Confluence
  • Familiarity with GreenHills Multi SW Development Suite, COSMIC SW Development Suite, ClearQuest, VectorCAST, LabVIEW
  • Familiarity with virtualization concepts and LynxOS Hypervisor preferred
  • Full software lifecycle development experience in accordance with DO-178C and CMMI
  • Fundamental understanding of software regression testing/verification
  • Strong analytical, problem-solving, and cross-functional collaboration skills.
  • Proven ability to interface with customers, resolve escalated technical issues, and translate feedback into actionable improvements.
  • Familiarity with industry guidelines and standards for engineering processes

Who We Are:
Our Values
Environmental, Social and Governance
Curtiss-Wright's Defense Solution division is a trusted, proven leader, delivering superior products and services that meet the defense and aerospace industries' toughest challenges with best-in-class value. Our solutions address air, ground, and naval defense applications, and are focused on growth segments with a high demand for advanced technology, enhanced safety, security, and performance. As a leading Modular Open Systems Approach (MOSA) solutions supplier for battlefield platforms and communication systems, we are uniquely positioned to benefit from the DoD's commitment to maintaining technological superiority on the battlefield.
To learn more visit: Home | Curtiss-Wright Defense Solutions (curtisswrightds.com)
No unsolicited agency submittals please. Agency partners must be invited to participate in a search by our Talent Acquisition Team and have signed terms in place prior to any submittal. Resumes submitted directly to any Curtiss-Wright employee or affiliate will not qualify for fee payment, and therefore become the property of Curtiss-Wright.
Compliance Statement
This position may require exposure to export-controlled information and subject to additional security screening. In the event information provided during the security screening reveals ineligibility to access export-controlled information, any offer of employment may be reconsidered or withdrawn.
Curtiss-Wright is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, ethnicity, color, sexual orientation, gender identity, physical or mental disability, age, ancestry, legally protected medical condition, family care status, marital status, religion, veteran status, national origin, or any other legally protected status. If you require accommodation during the recruitment process, please contact Talent Acquisition.
For US Applicants: EEO is The Law - click here for more information.
If you require accommodation due to a disability at any time during the recruitment and/or assessment process, please contact Talent Acquisition and we will make all reasonable efforts to accommodate your request.

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About Curtiss-Wright

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Curtiss-Wright Actuation Division designs, manufactures and supports electro-mechanical actuation products and systems for use in demanding applications in Aerospace, Defense and Industrial Automation markets. Our market leading solutions help improve the reliability, efficiency and performance of our customers' operations and platforms, as well as reducing their environmental impact with energy efficient electro-mechanical designs and technology. For the Aerospace market, we supply actuation systems for flight control, landing gear, utility and other applications on both commercial and military aircraft. In Ground & Naval Defense markets, we support a wide array of applications ranging from door assist, ramp and hatch actuation, weapons handling systems, radar and launch platform actuation, and robotic (AUV/ROV) actuation. In Industrial Automation, our Exlar® actuators are globally recognized as a leading brand offering high power density, precision and reliability for machine/process applications in automotive, food & beverage, oil & gas, robotics, entertainment and many other industries.

Industry

Computer and electronic product manufacturing

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Davidson, NC, US

Year founded

1929

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