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Embedded Systems Engineer Jobs in Fairfax, VA (NOW HIRING)

Integrate and debug Linux operating systems on embedded systems, ensuring reliable operation on custom hardware. * Collaborate closely with hardware engineering teams to ensure seamless software and ...

Terrestrial Software Systems Engineer

Tysons, VA · On-site

$173K - $205K/yr

SIMILAR CAREER TITLES Ground Systems Engineer, Systems Software Engineer, Embedded Systems Engineer, Software Systems Architect, Terrestrial Systems Engineer, Software Integration Engineer, Aerospace ...

Terrestrial Software Systems Engineer

Reston, VA · On-site

$180K - $213K/yr

SIMILAR CAREER TITLES Ground Systems Engineer, Systems Software Engineer, Embedded Systems Engineer, Software Systems Architect, Terrestrial Systems Engineer, Software Integration Engineer, Aerospace ...

Terrestrial Software Systems Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$178K - $211K/yr

SIMILAR CAREER TITLES Ground Systems Engineer, Systems Software Engineer, Embedded Systems Engineer, Software Systems Architect, Terrestrial Systems Engineer, Software Integration Engineer, Aerospace ...

Showing results 21-40

Embedded Systems Engineer information

See Fairfax, VA salary details

$64K

$140.5K

$196.5K

How much do embedded systems engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for embedded systems engineer in Fairfax, VA is $140,523.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $114,100.00 and $167,400.00 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.

What are popular job titles related to Embedded Systems Engineer jobs in Fairfax, VA?

For Embedded Systems Engineer jobs in Fairfax, VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Embedded Systems Engineer jobs in Fairfax, VA look for?

The top searched job categories for Embedded Systems Engineer jobs in Fairfax, VA are:

What cities near Fairfax, VA are hiring for Embedded Systems Engineer jobs?

Cities near Fairfax, VA with the most Embedded Systems Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Embedded Systems Engineer job openings in Fairfax, VA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 86% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $140,523 per year, or $67.6 per hour.

Embedded Systems and Technical SETA with Security Clearance

SPA

Arlington, VA • On-site

Other

Medical, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 13 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Perform technology management support of research efforts involving software and hardware platform research, assessment, integration, testing, prototype development, and system transition for secure multi-node processing

  • Provide expert technical advice and guidance to DARPA on secure, multi-domain computing systems and support testing and evaluation of cybersecurity technologies and prototypes in operational environments

  • Support DoD research programs by engaging with research performers, reviewing deliverables, and leading technical meetings with stakeholders


Job description

Overview Systems Planning and Analysis, Inc. (SPA) delivers high-impact, technical solutions to complex national security issues. With over 50 years of business expertise and consistent growth, we are known for continuous innovation for our government customers, in both the US and abroad. Our exceptionally talented team is highly collaborative in spirit and practice, producing Results that Matter . Come work with the best! We offer opportunity, unique challenges, and clear-sighted commitment to the mission. SPA: Objective. Responsive. Trusted. The Joint, Office of the Secretary of Defense, Interagency Division provides expert support services to a range of customers spanning across the Department of Defense, Federal Civilian, and international markets. JOID provides a diverse portfolio of analytical and programmatic capabilities to help our customers make informed decisions on their most challenging issues. SPA provides critical decision support to enabling and executing a strategy of technological superiority and enabling the delivery and sustainment of secure, resilient, and preeminent capabilities to the warfighter quickly and cost effectively. Our team of experienced military, technical, and operations research analysts is skilled in evaluating military problems, identifying the driving factors, devising innovative approaches, collecting applicable data, developing necessary software tools, and performing thorough and timely assessments to inform technology and acquisition governance decisions to ensure U.S. military forces retain military superiority in the future. We have an immediate need for an Embedded Systems and Technical SETA to provide onsite support out of Arlington, VA. Responsibilities The candidate will perform technology management support of research efforts involving software and hardware platform research and assessment, integration, testing, prototype development, and transition of systems for secure multi-node processing. Provide expert technical advice and guidance to DARPA regarding all aspects of secure, multi-domain computing systems. Execute n ew concept and new program development with government principals. Explore current state-of-the-art and technical feasibility of new concepts and potential research approaches. Support DoD research programs in terms of technology management, engagement with research performers, deliverable review, and leading regular calls or meetings with research performers on a technical basis. Support testing and evaluation of DoD applied research and advanced technology development of cybersecurity technologies and/or prototypes in an operationally relevant environment. Directly engage with government transition partners (within the DoD and Intelligence Community) and related stakeholders. Qualifications Required: * Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or a related field * 8+ years of relevant experience in embedded hardware development, embedded systems programming, cybersecurity, and/or computer engineering * Active Top Secret clearance * Substantial experience in cybersecurity, as applied to embedded hardware systems (e.g. mobile and non-telecom devices, internet of things, and related military and intelligence type equipment) * Experience with secure Execution Environments (e.g. TEEs, TPMs) on embedded devices * Test & Evaluation experience in cybersecurity red-teaming (to include Counter-Intel style qualitative assessment), and demonstrated ability to 'break' systems, thus exposing design, architecture, and security flaws and identification of technical debt * Ability to work with little oversight to achieve team goals * Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to effectively convey complex technical information to both technical and non-technical audiences * A high degree of initiative, excellent organizational skills, attention to detail, and reliability * Familiarity with general systems engineering principles for complex systems development * Able to report to Arlington, VA full-time in a SCIF environment, based upon client needs Desired: * Graduate/Master's degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or a related field * Experience with a wide variety of reverse engineering (RE), vulnerability research (VR), offensive cyber, and defense cyber methods and state-of-the-art for embedded systems * Experience in experience in testbed development and usage for mixed real/virtual (i.e. Live Virtual Constructive) sets of software and/or hardware nodes * Experience in T&E operations planning and execution, i.e. Test Planning, Test Infrastructure, Test Execution and Documentation, Travel to CONUS and OCONUS locations * Experience operating in complex, contested, non-benign environments * Experience with clandestine or covert operations * Experience with cyber operations * Experience with Telecommunications (Telco) Operators, and a wide variety of systems * Experience working with Special Access Programs (SAPs)/CAPs * Experience with Agile development methodologies At SPA, we strive to deliver a robust total compensation package that will attract and retain top talent. Elements of the compensation package include competitive base pay and variable compensation opportunities. SPA provides eligible employees with an opportunity to enroll in a variety of benefit programs, generally including health insurance, flexible spending accounts, health savings accounts, retirement savings plans, life and disability insurance programs, and a number of programs that provide for both paid and unpaid time away from work. The specific programs and options available to any given employee may vary depending on eligibility factors such as geographic location, date of hire, etc. Please note that the salary information shown below is a general guideline only. Salaries are commensurate with experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations. VA Pay Transparency Salary range: $170k-$220K