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Embedded System Development Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

ECS

Software/Embedded Systems Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

$150K - $197K/yr

Knowledge of systems engineering principles, best practices, agile development, and project ... Experience with embedded software systems * Advanced skills in Microsoft Excel, Word, and ...

JRC Careers

Embedded Software Developer

Dahlgren, VA · On-site

... systems engineering, and cutting-edge research and development. By joining JRC, you'll be part of a ... JRC is seeking an Embedded Software Engineer to design, develop, and test embedded software and ...

Fibertek, Inc

Staff Electrical Engineer

Herndon, VA · On-site

Experience using electrical lab equipment as part of embedded system development. Bonus Areas: * MSEE * Experience developing hi-rel military and/or space-flight electronics * Experience with FPGA ...

JRC Careers

Embedded Software Developer

Dahlgren, VA · On-site

JRC is seeking an Embedded Software Engineer to design, develop, and test embedded software and ... systems. This role involves hardware/software integration, low-level driver development ...

TalentRemedy

Senior Electrical Engineer

Herndon, VA

$110K - $144K/yr

Experience using electrical lab equipment as part of embedded system development. Bonus Areas: MSEE or PhD. Experience developing hi-rel military and/or space-flight electronics Experience with FPGA ...

NSS

Electrical Engineer

Herndon, VA · On-site

Experience using electrical lab equipment as part of embedded system development. * Strong communication and documentation skills * The candidate should be comfortable working hands-on and will ...

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All JobsEmbedded System Development JobsEmbedded System Development Jobs in Virginia

Embedded System Development information

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

To thrive as an Embedded System Developer, you need strong programming skills (C/C++), knowledge of microcontrollers, and a background in electrical or computer engineering. Familiarity with real-time operating systems (RTOS), debugging tools, and industry-standard protocols is typically required, along with certifications like Certified Embedded Systems Engineer (CESE) being advantageous. Problem-solving, attention to detail, and effective teamwork are crucial soft skills for success in this field. These competencies ensure reliable, efficient, and innovative embedded solutions that meet rigorous industry standards.

What is embedded system development?

Embedded system development involves designing, programming, and testing specialized computing systems that perform dedicated functions within larger mechanical or electrical systems. These systems are typically resource-constrained, operate in real-time, and are found in devices such as automobiles, medical equipment, home appliances, and industrial machines. Developers often work with low-level programming languages like C or C++, and must consider hardware constraints, power usage, and reliability. The field requires knowledge of both software and hardware to ensure seamless integration and functionality.

What is the difference between Embedded System Development vs Firmware Engineering?

AspectEmbedded System DevelopmentFirmware Engineering
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Electrical, Computer Engineering, or related fields; knowledge of hardware and software integrationBachelor's in Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering; focus on low-level programming
Work EnvironmentDesigning and developing embedded hardware and software for devices like IoT, automotive, medical equipmentWriting and optimizing firmware for microcontrollers and embedded chips
Industry UsageAutomotive, consumer electronics, industrial automationConsumer electronics, IoT devices, embedded systems manufacturing

Embedded System Development involves creating integrated hardware and software solutions for various devices, while Firmware Engineering focuses specifically on developing low-level code that runs directly on microcontrollers. Both roles require similar technical skills and often overlap, but Embedded System Developers typically work on broader system design, whereas Firmware Engineers concentrate on firmware optimization and implementation.

What are some common challenges faced by embedded system developers when working on cross-functional teams?

Embedded system developers often work closely with hardware engineers, software developers, and product managers, which can present challenges in communication and aligning technical requirements. Differences in development timelines, toolchains, and priorities may require adaptability and proactive problem-solving. Successful embedded system developers foster strong collaboration by clearly documenting interfaces, participating in regular cross-team meetings, and maintaining open channels for feedback to ensure project alignment and smooth integration.
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Embedded System Development jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Embedded System Development job openings:
Embedded System Development jobs near you
Embedded Systems & Robotics Engineer

Embedded Systems & Robotics Engineer

MAG Aerospace

Fairfax, VA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 21 days ago

Job description

Position Summary
MAG is staffing for an Embedded Systems & Robotics Engineer who will bridge the critical hardware-software boundary for autonomous tactical systems. You'll modify and enhance systems and solutions that operate independently in GPS-denied environments, from underwater vehicles to aerial swarms, while ensuring reliability in the harshest conditions.
US Citizens Only
Former US Defense Contractor / US Gov / US Military Experience Only
This is a Hybrid Position - Remote mainly - but as well on call to come into a MAG office when requested.
We are seeking candidates who live in proximity to our corporate HQ in Fairfax, VA primarily but will entertain persons living near our satellite offices in:
Aberdeen, MD - Titusville, FL - Newport News, VA - Carthage NC
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
Primary Responsibilities
  • Enhance or augment embedded software for autonomous vehicles (UGV, UAV, UUV, USV) to extend baseline capabilities
  • Implement sensor fusion for autonomous navigation (LIDAR, cameras, IMU, sonar)
  • Design control systems for robotic platforms and actuators
  • Create hardware abstraction layers following MOSA/SOSA standards
  • Develop digital twin simulations for hardware-in-the-loop testing
  • Implement real-time operating systems (RTOS) and safety-critical software
  • Develop and verify safety-critical software in accordance with established standards and best practices
  • Design and fabricate custom hardware solutions using 3D printing and rapid prototyping
  • Apply Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE) practices using SysML/AADL
Secondary Responsibilities
  • Lead field testing and validation of autonomous systems
  • Support deployment and troubleshooting in operational environments
  • Create hardware test fixtures and validation procedures
  • Document MOSA compliance and interface specifications
  • Train operators on system capabilities and limitations

Requirements
Experience:
Required Qualifications
  • 5+ years embedded systems and/or robotics development experience
  • Strong proficiency in C and C++ for real-time for resource-constrained systems
  • Expert proficiency and practical knowledge of Python for scripting, tooling, and rapid prototyping
  • Experience with ROS/ROS2 for robotics development
  • Hands-on experience with autonomous vehicle platforms
  • Proficiency with CAD tools and 3D printing/fabrication
  • Understanding of control theory and path planning algorithms
  • Experience with hardware communication protocols (CAN, I2C, SPI, UART)
  • Familiarity with MOSA/SOSA standards and open architectures
  • Experience with simulation tools (Gazebo, MATLAB/Simulink)
Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience with NVIDIA Jetson platforms for autonomous systems
  • Military/defense robotics experience (ROS-M, JAUS)
  • Hands-on experience with RTOS (e.g., FreeRTOS, VxWorks) and/or embedded Linux (Yocto, Buildroot)
  • Knowledge of digital twin technologies and real-time simulation
  • Familiarity with DO-178C, DO-254, or similar safety standards
  • Experience with swarm robotics and distributed control
  • Understanding of SLAM and computer vision for navigation
  • Experience with environmental testing (MIL-STD-810)
  • Pilot's license or experience with FAA Part 107 operations

Education:
  • Bachelor's degree in EE, CE, ME, CS or related field

Clearance:
  • Must be eligible for Secret security clearance
  • US Citizenship required

Special Note
What Makes You Successful Here
  • You can go from CAD design to functioning prototype in days
  • You understand autonomy from sensors to behavior planning
  • You apply systems engineering rigor to rapid prototyping
  • You're comfortable with both lab development and field operations
  • You see MOSA as an enabler, not a constraint

Apply