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Embedded System Software Engineer Jobs in Washington

TAP Engineering LLC

Senior Software Engineer

Washington, DC · On-site

$170K - $230K/yr

Software Engineering Schedule: Standard Day Shift, Monday-Friday Clearance Requirement: Active ... Candidates with a background in embedded systems are encouraged to apply, though it is not a strict ...

Cymertek

Space Systems Software Engineer

Tysons, VA · On-site

$173K - $205K/yr

Space Systems Software Engineer LOCATION Tysons, VA 22182 CLEARANCE TS/SCI Full Poly (Please note ... Experience with embedded systems software * Strong understanding of software integration in complex ...

Cymertek

Space Systems Software Engineer

Reston, VA · On-site

$180K - $213K/yr

Space Systems Software Engineer LOCATION Reston, VA 20190 CLEARANCE TS/SCI Full Poly (Please note ... Experience with embedded systems software * Strong understanding of software integration in complex ...

Cymertek

Space Systems Software Engineer

Annapolis Junction, MD · On-site

$176K - $209K/yr

Space Systems Software Engineer LOCATION Annapolis Junction, MD 20701 CLEARANCE TS/SCI Full Poly ... Experience with embedded systems software * Strong understanding of software integration in complex ...

Cymertek

Space Systems Software Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$178K - $211K/yr

Space Systems Software Engineer LOCATION Chantilly, VA 20151 CLEARANCE TS/SCI Full Poly (Please ... Experience with embedded systems software * Strong understanding of software integration in complex ...

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Embedded System Software Engineer information

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$79.3K

$173.7K

$197.1K

How much do embedded system software engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for embedded system software engineer in Washington is $173,722.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $148,900.00 and $195,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an Embedded System Software Engineer do?

An Embedded System Software Engineer designs, develops, tests, and optimizes software for embedded systems, which are specialized computing devices integrated into hardware. They work with microcontrollers, real-time operating systems (RTOS), and low-level programming languages like C and C++. Their responsibilities include writing efficient code, debugging hardware-software interactions, and ensuring system stability and performance. They often collaborate with hardware engineers to ensure seamless integration of software and hardware components.

What does a typical day look like for an Embedded System Software Engineer?

A typical day for an Embedded System Software Engineer involves writing and testing code for embedded devices, debugging hardware-software interactions, and collaborating closely with hardware engineers and cross-functional teams. You may participate in design reviews, update technical documentation, and ensure that software meets performance and safety requirements. Your role often requires balancing multiple projects, troubleshooting complex system issues, and adapting to evolving product needs. Working in this field provides the opportunity to see your software in action on real-world devices, making it both challenging and rewarding.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Embedded System Software Engineer position, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Embedded System Software Engineer, you need a solid background in C/C++ programming, microcontroller architectures, and real-time operating systems, typically supported by a degree in electrical engineering, computer engineering, or a related field. Experience with debugging tools, protocol analyzers, version control systems (like Git), and certifications such as Certified Embedded Systems Engineer (CESE) are advantageous. Strong analytical thinking, effective problem-solving, and clear communication help distinguish top performers in this role. These skills and qualities are essential for designing, developing, and maintaining reliable embedded software that interacts seamlessly with hardware and meets rigorous industry standards.

What are the most commonly searched types of Embedded System Software Engineer jobs in Washington? The most popular types of Embedded System Software Engineer jobs in Washington are:
What are popular job titles related to Embedded System Software Engineer jobs in Washington? For Embedded System Software Engineer jobs in Washington, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Embedded System Software Engineer jobs in Washington look for? The top searched job categories for Embedded System Software Engineer jobs in Washington are:
Embedded System Software Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Embedded System Software Engineer job openings in Washington as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 87% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 83% Physical, 6% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $173,722 per year, or $83.5 per hour.

Senior Software Engineer

TAP Engineering LLC

Washington, DC • On-site

$170K - $230K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 13 days ago

Job description

Senior Software Engineer
Software | Washington, DC | Full Time
Position: Senior Software Engineer
Location: Washington, DC
Category: Software Engineering
Schedule: Standard Day Shift, Monday-Friday
Clearance Requirement: Active Secret security clearance (required)
Experience Requirement: Senior-level
Compensation Range: $191,000 - $254,000 (based on experience)
Position Overview
We are seeking a Senior Software Engineer to support the design and development of software for next-generation hardware platforms in a mission-focused environment. This role focuses on building, validating, and maintaining software that supports advanced systems - including embedded platforms operating in constrained environments. The ideal candidate has strong programming skills, experience across the software stack, and a security-focused mindset. Candidates with a background in embedded systems are encouraged to apply, though it is not a strict requirement for this role.
Key Responsibilities
  • Design and develop software infrastructure that is rigorously tested and validated
  • Build and maintain the software ecosystem supporting next-generation hardware platforms
  • Develop and implement security controls for system devices, including embedded platforms where applicable
  • Create and maintain automated tests to validate system functionality
  • Debug complex software issues, including hardware/software integration where relevant
  • Collaborate with hardware, systems, and security engineers throughout the development lifecycle

Required Qualifications
  • Proficiency in Python, C, and/or C++
  • Strong understanding of software architecture and software design principles
  • Experience with debugging and software integration
  • Ability to obtain and maintain an active Secret security clearance

Preferred Qualifications
  • Hands-on experience developing software in embedded or resource-constrained environments
  • Experience with hardware/software integration and debugging complex system-level issues
  • Experience developing operating system components or low-level system software
  • Strong focus on secure software development practices
  • Experience working with complex System-on-Chip (SoC) platforms
  • Familiarity with standard I/O interfaces such as UART, I2C, SPI, eMMC, and similar
  • Experience implementing security mechanisms such as Control Flow Integrity

Benefits Overview
TAP Engineering offers a comprehensive and competitive benefits package, including:
  • Paid Time Off: 15-25 days annually based on tenure, plus 11 paid holidays (never use-or-lose)
  • Retirement: Up to 15% employer contribution to a 401(k) through match and profit sharing
  • Medical Coverage: Free medical insurance for employees, with optional buy-up plans for dependents
  • Dental & Vision: Employer-paid plans with optional enhancements
  • Insurance Coverage: Employer-paid life insurance, AD&D, short-term disability, and long-term disability
  • Flexible Spending Accounts: Healthcare and dependent care FSAs
  • Tuition Reimbursement: Up to $36,000 per year for approved coursework
  • Additional Benefits: Employee Assistance Program, wellness incentives, discount programs, virtual care, prescription savings, and travel support
  • Performance-Based Rewards: Merit increases, performance bonuses, and referral bonuses

Clearance Requirement
This position requires an active Secret security clearance. Clearance processing and maintenance will be conducted in accordance with U.S. Government requirements.
TAP Engineering is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other status protected by law.

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