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

APOGEE RESEARCH LLC

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.

Cmu

Senior Embedded Software Engineer

Arlington, VA · Hybrid

$142K - $186K/yr

Who we are SEI helps advance software engineering principles and practices and serves as a national ... Design and analyze embedded software tools and capabilities, including software exception handlers ...

Wabtec

Embedded Software Engineer IV

Germantown, MD

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 ...

Wabtec

Embedded Software Engineer IV

Germantown, MD · On-site

$91K - $129K/yr

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 ...

Wabtec

Embedded Software Engineer IV

Germantown, MD · On-site

$91K - $129K/yr

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 ...

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All JobsEmbedded Software Engineer JobsEmbedded Software Engineer Jobs in Reston, VA

Embedded Software Engineer information

See Reston, VA salary details

$72.8K

$159.6K

$181K

How much do embedded software engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for embedded software engineer in Reston, VA is $159,573.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $136,800.00 and $180,000.00 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 Reston, VA? The most popular types of Embedded Software Engineer jobs in Reston, VA are:
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Embedded Software Engineer jobs near you
Embedded Software Engineer

Embedded Software Engineer

APOGEE RESEARCH LLC

Arlington, VA • On-site

$151K - $199K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, PTO

Re-posted 13 days ago

Job description

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. This change is driven by a need for faster adaptation to adversarial environments, which requires the ability to field resilient, distributed systems in days to weeks rather than months to years (much less decades).

Apogee Research is looking for Embedded Software Engineers to lead the creation of capabilities addressing currently unmet needs in National Security. This focuses on implementing cutting edge software capabilities at the tactical edge -- working with existing military and commercial hardware. Limited travel to support test and exercise events is expected.

The details of the position will vary based on the expertise and desires of the candidate and the specific project being executed, however, common themes include:

  • Performing hands-on technical work including design and development of low-level software (typically C and C++) for tactical systems across a variety of architectures and POSIX compliant operating systems.
  • Debugging cyber-physical systems through a deep understanding of both software and computer hardware issues.
  • Supporting demonstration and testing in both laboratory and test events settings.
  • Learning new technologies and developing fundamentally new approaches as needed.
  • Working in cross-discipline teams to solve hard problems through collaboration.

Qualified candidates should have:

  • Extensive experience building low level software that reliably runs in a range of environmental conditions.
  • High proficiency in C and C++.
  • Thorough understanding of the theory and practice of buffers, transports, schedulers, and similar low-level software constructs.
  • Theoretical and practical knowledge of signal processing techniques such as (Nyquist sampling, convolutions, Fourier transforms, etc. is a strong plus.
  • Understanding of hardware (ruggedized compute, amplifiers, software defined radios, etc.) is a strong plus.

The position is located in our Arlington, VA office (full-time in person). Existing DoD Top Secret clearance is extremely desirable, otherwise all candidates must be eligible to obtain one and therefore all candidates must be a US citizen to apply.

About Apogee Research

Apogee Research offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes health, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance, FSAs, paid vacation, sick leave, and paid holidays. Conveniently located in Arlington, VA, we are a short walking distance from the Ballston Metro station. We offer the choice of paid garage parking or a contribution towards a transit account.

Apogee Research, LLC is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity and Affirmative Action employer. We do not discriminate based upon race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy and gender identity), national origin, political affiliation, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, genetic information, age, membership in an employee organization, parental status, military service, or other non-merit factors.