ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Embedded Systems Engineer Jobs in Baltimore, MD (NOW HIRING)

Actalent

Embedded Software Engineer

Baltimore, MD

$55 - $120/hr

Embedded Software Engineer This role focuses on developing, integrating, and testing C++ embedded ... Design, develop, and maintain C++ embedded software for real‑time RF systems running on Linux and ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsEmbedded Systems Engineer JobsEmbedded Systems Engineer Jobs in Baltimore, MD

Embedded Systems Engineer information

See Baltimore, MD salary details

$62.1K

$136.4K

$190.8K

How much do embedded systems engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for embedded systems engineer in Baltimore, MD is $136,400.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $110,800.00 and $162,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an embedded systems engineer?

Embedded Systems Engineers are professionals who design, develop, and maintain embedded systems—specialized computing systems that perform dedicated functions within larger mechanical or electrical systems. These engineers work with both hardware and software, often programming microcontrollers or microprocessors to control devices like automobiles, medical equipment, consumer electronics, and industrial machines. Their expertise ensures devices are efficient, reliable, and optimized for specific tasks, making embedded systems a crucial part of modern technology.

What does an embedded systems engineer do?

An embedded systems engineer creates the software to control electronics or machines that are different from regular computers. This software needs to run on the specific hardware it controls. Their duties also include troubleshooting and testing. Essential skills include problem-solving, critical thinking, and communication. Work is typically in an office environment with full-time business hours. Educational qualifications include a bachelor’s or master’s degree in embedded systems engineering or a related field.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an embedded systems engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Embedded Systems Engineer, you need strong proficiency in C/C++ programming, embedded hardware knowledge, and a degree in electrical engineering, computer engineering, or a related field. Familiarity with real-time operating systems (RTOS), microcontroller development platforms, and debugging tools like oscilloscopes and logic analyzers is typically required. Problem-solving, attention to detail, and effective teamwork are critical soft skills for success in this role. These skills and qualities are essential to design reliable embedded solutions that meet strict performance, safety, and efficiency requirements.

What are some common challenges an embedded systems engineer faces when integrating hardware and software components?

Embedded Systems Engineers often encounter challenges when ensuring that hardware and software components work seamlessly together. These can include dealing with limited memory and processing power, timing constraints, and real-time performance requirements. Troubleshooting issues that arise from hardware-software interactions—such as driver compatibility, signal integrity, or power management—requires strong problem-solving skills and close collaboration with hardware designers and software developers. Engineers must frequently debug at both the hardware and code level, making attention to detail and cross-disciplinary communication essential in this role.

What is the difference between Embedded Systems Engineer vs Firmware Engineer?

AspectEmbedded Systems EngineerFirmware Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or related fields; certifications like Certified Embedded Systems EngineerBachelor's in Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering; certifications like Certified Firmware Engineer
Work EnvironmentDesigning and developing embedded hardware/software for devices like automotive, medical, consumer electronicsWriting low-level code to optimize firmware for microcontrollers and embedded devices
Industry UsageUsed across automotive, aerospace, consumer electronics, industrial automationPrimarily in consumer electronics, IoT devices, and embedded hardware products

Both roles focus on embedded development but differ in scope. Embedded Systems Engineers work on both hardware and software integration, while Firmware Engineers specialize in writing low-level code for device firmware. Understanding these distinctions helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

Are embedded systems engineers in demand?

Embedded systems engineers are in high demand due to the growth of IoT, automotive, healthcare, and consumer electronics industries. They typically require skills in programming languages like C and C++, and knowledge of hardware design, with job opportunities available across various sectors worldwide.
More about Embedded Systems Engineer jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Embedded Systems Engineer jobs in Baltimore, MD?

The most popular types of Embedded Systems Engineer jobs in Baltimore, MD are:

What are popular job titles related to Embedded Systems Engineer jobs in Baltimore, MD?

For Embedded Systems Engineer jobs in Baltimore, MD, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Embedded Systems Engineer jobs in Baltimore, MD look for?

The top searched job categories for Embedded Systems Engineer jobs in Baltimore, MD are:

What cities near Baltimore, MD are hiring for Embedded Systems Engineer jobs?

Cities near Baltimore, MD with the most Embedded Systems Engineer job openings:

Embedded Systems Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Embedded Systems Engineer job openings in Baltimore, MD as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 86% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $136,400 per year, or $65.6 per hour.

Embedded Systems Design Engineer

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory

Laurel, MD • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 8 days ago

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory rating

9.6

Company rating: 9.6 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

2nd of 74 rated research

Job description

Description
Do you love designing algorithms and developing on embedded systems to solve hard problems with real-world applications?
Are you eager to take initiative and work on projects across a multidisciplinary problem space, from high-reliability to rapid prototyping?
Do you want to work in an atmosphere where risk taking, innovation, and creativity are openly encouraged and sought out?
If so, we're looking for someone like you to join our team at APL!
We are seeking an Embedded Systems Design Engineer to help us build innovative technology applications for the next generation of electronic warfare (EW) systems. Your work will contribute to ensuring the US and its allies dominate the RF spectrum. You 'll be joining our hardworking team of system engineers, algorithm developers, FPGA and embedded software engineers, and advanced EW technology enthusiasts who enjoy working together to craft creative solutions to complex challenges in addition to bringing real solutions from concept to prototyping.
As an Embedded Systems Engineer, we will trust you to ...
  • Develop software and firmware for real-time embedded systems.
  • Implement digital signal processing (DSP) algorithms for various types of communication, data link, radar, and jamming signals.
  • Integrate embedded systems with EW payloads.
  • Apply Machine Learning (ML)/Artificial Intelligence (AI) algorithms for EW applications.
  • Test and demonstrate your work in field tests and lab demos.

Qualifications
You meet our minimum qualifications for the job if you ...
  • Have a Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or a closely related technical field.
  • Have experience with MATLAB, C/C++, Python, or similar programming languages.
  • Have relevant experience working with embedded systems and embedded programming.
  • Have general knowledge of embedded systems design with FPGAs.
  • Are able to obtain an Interim Secret level security clearance by your start date, and can ultimately obtain a Secret level clearance. If selected, you will be subject to a government security clearance investigation and must meet the requirements for access to classified information. Eligibility requirements include U.S. citizenship.

You 'll go above and beyond our minimum requirements if you ...
  • Have a Master's degree in Electrical Engineering or Computer Engineering.
  • Have at least seven years of relevant experience working with embedded systems and embedded programming.
  • Have experience with VHDL, Verilog, or other FPGA development languages.
  • Have experience in programming for Software Defined Radio (SDR).
  • Are experienced with high-speed FPGA design.
  • Are experienced with digital signal processing (DSP) algorithms.
  • Hold an active DoD Secret level clearance or higher.

#LI-AG1
About Us
Why Work at APL?
The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) brings world-class expertise to our nation's most critical defense, security, space and science challenges. While we are dedicated to solving complex challenges and pioneering new technologies, what makes us truly outstanding is our culture. We offer a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere where you can bring your authentic self to work, continue to grow, and build strong connections with inspiring teammates.
At APL, we celebrate our differences of perspectives and encourage creativity and bold, new ideas. Our employees enjoy generous benefits, including a robust education assistance program, unparalleled retirement contributions, and a healthy work/life balance. APL's campus is located in the Baltimore-Washington metro area. Learn more about our career opportunities at https://www.jhuapl.edu/careers.
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, creed, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, age, physical or mental disability, genetic information, veteran status, occupation, marital or familial status, political opinion, personal appearance, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. APL is committed to providing reasonable accommodation to individuals of all abilities, including those with disabilities. If you require a reasonable accommodation to participate in any part of the hiring process, please contact Accessibility@jhuapl.edu.
The referenced pay range is based on JHU APL's good faith belief at the time of posting. Actual compensation may vary based on factors such as geographic location, work experience, market conditions, education/training and skill level with consideration for internal parity. For salaried employees scheduled to work less than 40 hours per week, annual salary will be prorated based on the number of hours worked. APL may offer bonuses or other forms of compensation per internal policy and/or contractual designation. Additional compensation may be provided in the form of a sign-on bonus, relocation benefits, locality allowance or discretionary payments for exceptional performance. APL provides eligible staff with a comprehensive benefits package including retirement plans, paid time off, medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short-term disability, long-term disability, flexible spending accounts, education assistance, and training and development. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis.
Minimum Rate
$100,000 Annually
Maximum Rate
$245,000 Annually

What Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory employees say

Pay

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Apply