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Embedded Software Engineer Jobs in Vienna, VA (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

Dulles, VA · On-site

$130K - $171K/yr

The Position TrustPoint is currently seeking a Full Time Embedded Software Engineer to join the team and will be responsible for implementing electrical components into hardware and firmware needed ...

Embedded Software Engineer

Sterling, VA · On-site

$130K - $171K/yr

The Position TrustPoint is currently seeking a Full Time Embedded Software Engineer to join the team and will be responsible for implementing electrical components into hardware and firmware needed ...

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.

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Embedded Software Engineer information

See Vienna, VA salary details

$70.3K

$154K

$174.6K

How much do embedded software engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for embedded software engineer in Vienna, VA is $153,951.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $132,000.00 and $173,600.00 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.
What are the most commonly searched types of Embedded Software Engineer jobs in Vienna, VA? The most popular types of Embedded Software Engineer jobs in Vienna, VA are:
What are popular job titles related to Embedded Software Engineer jobs in Vienna, VA? For Embedded Software Engineer jobs in Vienna, VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities near Vienna, VA are hiring for Embedded Software Engineer jobs? Cities near Vienna, VA with the most Embedded Software Engineer job openings:
Embedded Software Engineer

Embedded Software Engineer

Two Six Technologies

Herndon, VA • On-site

$106K - $159K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 3 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.
Additionally, please be advised that this business uses E-Verify in its hiring practices.
By submitting the following application, I hereby certify that to the best of my knowledge, the information provided is true and accurate.