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Embedded Software Engineer Jobs in Fairfax, VA (NOW HIRING)

In this role, the Senior Embedded Software Engineer will work with a cross-functional Engineering team to design and develop new functionalities, as well as maintaining and expanding on the existing ...

Senior Embedded Software Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

$142K - $186K/yr

SDD is seeking a Senior Embedded Software Engineer to support the design, development, and implementation of real-time processing solutions in software for advanced multi-function Radar systems. You ...

SDD is seeking a Lead Embedded Software Engineer to support the design, development, and implementation of real-time processing solutions in software for advanced multi-function Radar systems. You ...

Senior Embedded Software Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

$142K - $186K/yr

SDD is seeking a Lead Embedded Software Engineer to support the design, development, and implementation of real-time processing solutions in software for advanced multi-function Radar systems. You ...

Senior Embedded Software Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

$142K - $186K/yr

SDD is seeking a Lead Embedded Software Engineer to support the design, development, and implementation of real-time processing solutions in software for advanced multi-function Radar systems. You ...

In this role, the Senior Embedded Software Engineer will work with a cross-functional Engineering team to design and develop new functionalities, as well as maintaining and expanding on the existing ...

In this role, the Senior Embedded Software Engineer will work with a cross-functional Engineering team to design and develop new functionalities, as well as maintaining and expanding on the existing ...

In this role, the Senior Embedded Software Engineer will work with a cross-functional Engineering team to design and develop new functionalities, as well as maintaining and expanding on the existing ...

In this role, the Senior Embedded Software Engineer will work with a cross-functional Engineering team to design and develop new functionalities, as well as maintaining and expanding on the existing ...

Showing results 41-60

Embedded Software Engineer information

See Fairfax, VA salary details

$71.4K

$156.5K

$177.5K

How much do embedded software engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for embedded software engineer in Fairfax, VA is $156,452.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $134,100.00 and $176,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an embedded software engineer?

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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an embedded software engineer?

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.

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 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.

Are embedded software engineers in demand?

Embedded software engineers are in high demand due to the growth of IoT, automotive, medical devices, and consumer electronics industries. They often require skills in C, C++, and real-time operating systems, with job opportunities increasing globally as embedded systems become more integral to technology development.

What are the most commonly searched types of Embedded Software Engineer jobs in Fairfax, VA?

The most popular types of Embedded Software Engineer jobs in Fairfax, VA are:

What are popular job titles related to Embedded Software Engineer jobs in Fairfax, VA?

For Embedded Software Engineer jobs in Fairfax, VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Embedded Software Engineer jobs in Fairfax, VA look for?

The top searched job categories for Embedded Software Engineer jobs in Fairfax, VA are:

What cities near Fairfax, VA are hiring for Embedded Software Engineer jobs?

Cities near Fairfax, VA with the most Embedded Software Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Embedded Software Engineer job openings in Fairfax, VA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, and 11% Contract. Highlights an 89% In-person, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $156,452 per year, or $75.2 per hour.

Embedded Software Engineer IV

Wabtec

Germantown, MD • On-site

$91K - $129K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement

Re-posted 7 days ago


Job description

Company Description
Job Description
Who will you be working with?
The Wabtec Digital Onboard Solutions Engineering (DOSE) team develops a wide variety of products for the rail industry such as Electronically Controlled Pneumatics (ECP), Video and Event Recorders, Network Management Devices, Braking Systems, and Train Control Equipment. In this role, the Senior Embedded Software Engineer will work with a cross-functional Engineering team to design and develop new functionalities, as well as maintaining and expanding on the existing functions of our products.
How will you make a difference?
As a member of the DOSE Software Team, you will work closely with a cross-functional Engineering team to design and develop high quality Software components that align with system, functional, and cybersecurity requirements. You will report to the Software Manager and the broader business unit to ensure that we are meeting on-time deliveries and delivering the highest quality Software to our customers. You will be responsible for the design, development, and testing of Embedded Software Applications. You will perform requirement and design reviews, code reviews, and unit testing; and will be responsible for releasing Software, per the DOSE processes and guidelines.
What do we want to know about you?
  • Bachelor's degree in computer engineering, Electrical Engineering, Software Engineering, Computer Science, or related field with 5+ years of related experience
  • Effective oral and written communication skills. Ability to articulate clearly and concisely
  • Self-driven, quick learner, good team player, and results-oriented individual with a clear focus on high quality
  • Experience with C and C++ software development
  • Experience with Bash, Python, or other scripting languages used in automating tasks and unit testing
  • Experience with Linux or Unix-based real-time operating systems (QNX, FreeRTOS)
  • Proficient in software, component, and interface design
  • A strong understanding of modern OS coding techniques, IP protocols, and hardware interfaces
  • Desired experiences include:
    • Development of Device Drivers and Board Support Packages
    • Experience in Software Change Management (SCM), the Software Development Life Cycle (SDLC), and Continuous Integration (CI)
    • Experience working in an Agile Scrum environment
    • Knowledge of safety critical software, CENELEC standards, and rail industry standards

What will your typical day look like?
  • Design and develop high quality software products that align with system and subsystem requirements
  • Work closely with the broader business unit to ensure application development meets product specification requirements
  • Perform root cause analysis and develop solutions as necessary
  • Develop documentation including software design, requirements, process and architecture documents
  • Actively participate in software architecture, design, and code reviews
  • Execute and enhance the entire software development lifecycle
  • Create and maintain automated unit test cases for new designs
  • Investigate and remediate cybersecurity vulnerabilities

Wabtec will only employ those who are legally authorized to work in the U.S. for this opening. Any offer of employment is conditioned upon the successful completion of a drug screen (as applicable) and fitness for duty test (as applicable).
#LI-AM1
Qualifications
Additional Information
Our job titles may span more than one career level. The salary rate for this role is currently $91100-129800 The actual salary offered to a candidate may be influenced by a variety of factors, such as: training, transferable skills, work experience, education, business needs, market demands and work location. The base pay range is subject to change and may be modified in the future. More information on offered benefits, which include health, welfare, and retirement, are available at mywabtecbenefits.com. Other benefit offerings for this role may include annual bonus, if eligible.
What could you accomplish in a place that puts People First?
At Wabtec, it's not just about a job - it's about the impact you make. When our people come together, we're Expanding the Possible by continuously improving what we do and how we do it - for our clients and each other.
If you're ready to revolutionize how the world moves for future generations, Wabtec is the place for you.
Who are we?
Wabtec is a leading global provider of equipment, systems, digital solutions, and value-added services for the freight and transit rail sectors. Drawing on more than 150 years of experience, we are leading the way in safety, efficiency, reliability, innovation, and productivity. Whether it's freight, transit, ports, logistics, mining, industrial, or marine, our expertise, technologies, and people together - are accelerating the future of transportation. With roots that date back to George Westinghouse, Thomas Edison, and Louis Faiveley, Wabtec has always built technologies and implemented solutions for a variety of sectors that are critical to meeting the needs of customers and governments alike.
Our global team of about 30,000 employees worldwide delivers performance that moves the world forward. We're lifelong learners, obsessed with better. Learn more at www.WabtecCorp.com.
Culture powers us and the possibilities.
We believe the best ideas come from a mix of experiences and backgrounds. At Wabtec, we strive every day to create a place where everyone belongs. We're building a culture where leadership, inclusion and your unique perspective fuel progress.
We're proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We welcome talent of all backgrounds, experiences, and identities, including race, gender, age, disability, veteran status and more.
Need accommodation? Just let us know - we've got you.