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

ECS

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 ...

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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 Jun 18, 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 design, develop, and test software that runs on hardware devices such as microcontrollers and embedded systems. They work with programming languages like C and C++, and often use tools like debuggers and oscilloscopes to ensure software reliability in environments such as consumer electronics, automotive systems, and medical devices.

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 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 large tech companies or finance firms.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior embedded software engineers with extensive experience, specialized skills in real-time systems, and proficiency in programming languages like C and C++ can reach salaries of $300,000 or more, especially in high-demand industries such as aerospace, defense, or advanced technology. Achieving this level often requires advanced certifications, leadership roles, or working in regions with high living costs and competitive markets.
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
Flight Software Engineer - Embedded Linux & Networking

Flight Software Engineer - Embedded Linux & Networking

AST SpaceMobile

Lanham, MD

$131K - $173K/yr

Other

Posted 6 days ago

Job description

Position Overview

We are seeking a highly skilled Flight Software Engineer - Embedded Linux & Networking to design, develop, and support embedded software systems for advanced aerospace platforms. This role focuses on building and optimizing Linux-based networking capabilities within mission-critical environments, contributing to system architecture, integration, and performance of complex embedded systems.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Design, develop, and maintain embedded Linux software, including board support packages (BSPs), device drivers, and system-level integration
  • Lead development of networking subsystems, including protocol stacks, network drivers, and communication interfaces
  • Collaborate with cross-functional engineering teams to define system interfaces and ensure seamless hardware/software integration
  • Contribute to and uphold embedded software architecture standards, best practices, and coding guidelines
  • Participate in full software development lifecycle, including design, coding, testing, integration, and deployment
  • Support simulation and testing environments to validate networking behavior and system performance
  • Diagnose and resolve complex technical issues across hardware and software boundaries
  • Conduct code reviews and provide mentorship to junior engineers to ensure quality and consistency
  • Develop and maintain technical documentation, including architecture decisions and system specifications

Qualifications

Education:

Bachelor's degree in Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or a related technical field

Experience:

A minimum of 5+ yearsof professional experience in software engineering with a strong focus on embedded Linux systems

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Experience with real-time or performance-constrained embedded systems
  • Familiarity with advanced networking concepts and custom communication protocols
  • Exposure to secure software development practices or embedded system security
  • Experience working on high-reliability or mission-critical systems
  • Background in wireless communication or distributed network architectures
  • Experience with GPU computing or parallel processing technologies

Soft Skills:

  • Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to collaborate across multidisciplinary teams
  • Proven ability to communicate complex technical concepts clearly and effectively
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills
  • Strong analytical thinking and problem-solving capabilities
  • Meticulous attention to detail to ensure accuracy in design and implementation
  • Ability to lead technical discussions and influence architecture decisions
  • Adaptability and ability to thrive in a fast-paced, innovation-driven environment

Technology Stack:

  • Programming languages: C, C++, Python
  • Embedded Linux systems and kernel development
  • Networking technologies: TCP/IP, UDP, socket programming, routing
  • Embedded build systems such as Yocto or Buildroot
  • Development and debugging tools (e.g., GDB, JTAG/SWD interfaces)
  • Version control and collaboration tools (e.g., Git)
  • Continuous integration and issue tracking tools (e.g., CI platforms, Jira or similar)
  • Hardware debugging and diagnostic tools (e.g., oscilloscopes, logic or network analyzers)

Physical Requirements

  • Ability to work in a standard office, lab, or hybrid engineering environment
  • Prolonged periods of sitting and working on a computer
  • Ability to use specialized technical equipment for testing and debugging when required
  • Ability to communicate effectively with technical and non-technical stakeholders

This job description may not be inclusive to the duties and responsibilities listed. Additional tasks may be assigned to the employee from time to time or the scope of the job may change as needed by business demands. 

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