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Embedded Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

STR

Embedded Systems Emulation Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

$110K - $151K/yr

STR is hiring an Embedded Systems Emulation Engineer to join our multidisciplinary team of researchers and engineers developing cutting-edge technologies with significant and immediate impact on our ...

Fend Incorporated

Embedded Firmware Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

$118K - $162K/yr

This position will work with the Chief Engineer to develop embedded software for this security appliance. Your goals are to increase the number of applications that the hardware can be used for ...

STR

Embedded Systems Emulation Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

$110K - $151K/yr

STR is hiring an Embedded Systems Emulation Engineer to join our multidisciplinary team of researchers and engineers developing cutting-edge technologies with significant and immediate impact on our ...

Deloitte

Embedded Yocto Build Engineer

Rosslyn, VA · On-site

$149K - $197K/yr

Work You'll Do As an Embedded Systems Developer/Engineer, you will contribute directly to the design, development, testing, and long-term maintenance of embedded software and firmware that runs on ...

TrustPoint

Embedded Software Engineer

Dulles, VA

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 ...

TrustPoint

Embedded Software Engineer

Dulles, VA · On-site

$150K - $175K/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 ...

TrustPoint

Embedded Software Engineer

Sterling, VA · On-site

$150K - $175K/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 ...

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All JobsEmbedded JobsEmbedded Jobs in Reston, VA

Embedded information

See Reston, VA salary details

$72.8K

$159.6K

$181K

How much do embedded jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 24, 2026, the average yearly pay for embedded in Reston, VA is $159,573.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $136,800.00 and $180,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What engineers make $500,000?

Senior embedded engineers with extensive experience, specialized skills in hardware and firmware development, and often working in high-demand industries such as aerospace, defense, or semiconductor manufacturing can reach salaries of $500,000 or more. These roles typically require advanced certifications, leadership responsibilities, and sometimes stock options or bonuses that contribute to total compensation.

What is an embedded job?

An embedded job involves designing, developing, and maintaining embedded systems, which are specialized computing devices integrated into larger products such as appliances, vehicles, or medical equipment. These roles typically require knowledge of programming languages like C or C++, hardware interfaces, and real-time operating systems. Embedded engineers often work in environments that demand precision, reliability, and adherence to industry standards.

What is the difference between Embedded vs Firmware Engineer?

AspectEmbeddedFirmware Engineer
Required CredentialsTypically requires a degree in electrical engineering, computer engineering, or related fields; certifications in embedded systems are a plusUsually holds a degree in computer science, electrical engineering, or related; certifications in embedded or firmware development are common
Work EnvironmentDesigning and developing embedded systems for hardware devices, often in manufacturing or consumer electronicsWriting low-level code to control hardware, often in consumer electronics, automotive, or industrial sectors
Industry UsageUsed across industries like automotive, medical devices, consumer electronics, and industrial automationCommonly found in sectors requiring close hardware-software integration, such as IoT, consumer gadgets, and automotive

Embedded professionals focus on designing and implementing embedded systems hardware and software, while Firmware Engineers primarily develop low-level code to control hardware components. Both roles require similar skills and credentials but differ in their specific focus areas within hardware-software integration.

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 a solid background in electronics, computer engineering, and programming languages such as C/C++, often supported by a relevant degree. Familiarity with microcontrollers, real-time operating systems (RTOS), and hardware debugging tools is typically required, along with certifications like Certified Embedded Systems Engineer (CESE) being advantageous. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective teamwork greatly enhance performance in this role. These capabilities are crucial for designing reliable, efficient embedded solutions that power a wide range of devices and systems.

What are embedded engineers?

Embedded engineers are professionals who design, develop, and maintain embedded systems—specialized computing systems that are part of larger devices and dedicated to specific functions. These systems are commonly found in products like cars, medical devices, home appliances, and industrial equipment. Embedded engineers work with both hardware and software, often programming microcontrollers or microprocessors to interact with sensors, actuators, and other electronic components. Their work ensures that devices operate efficiently, reliably, and safely according to specifications.

Is embedded systems still a good career in 2026?

Embedded systems engineering remains a strong career in 2026 due to ongoing demand in industries like automotive, healthcare, and consumer electronics. Skills in C/C++, real-time operating systems, and hardware integration are valuable, and the field offers opportunities for growth with advancements in IoT and automation.

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

Embedded engineers often collaborate with hardware designers, software developers, and testing teams to deliver integrated products. One common challenge is ensuring clear communication between disciplines, as each team may use different technical terminology and have varying priorities. Additionally, embedded engineers must frequently balance hardware limitations with software requirements, requiring creative problem-solving and compromise. Regular cross-team meetings and thorough documentation can help address these challenges and keep projects on track.

Will AI replace embedded programmers?

AI is unlikely to fully replace embedded programmers, as their expertise in designing, coding, and debugging hardware-specific software remains essential. AI tools can assist with code generation and testing, but human oversight and specialized knowledge are critical for developing reliable embedded systems. Skills in programming languages like C and C++, along with understanding hardware constraints, are still highly valuable in this field.
What are the most commonly searched types of Embedded jobs in Reston, VA? The most popular types of Embedded jobs in Reston, VA are:
What cities near Reston, VA are hiring for Embedded jobs? Cities near Reston, VA with the most Embedded job openings:
Embedded jobs near you
Embedded Systems Emulation Engineer

Embedded Systems Emulation Engineer

STR

Arlington, VA • On-site

$110K - $151K/yr

Full-time

Posted 4 days ago

Job description

STR is hiring an Embedded Systems Emulation Engineer to join our multidisciplinary team of researchers and engineers developing cutting-edge technologies with significant and immediate impact on our national security. In this role, you will work at the intersection of computer systems and real-world physical systems, building the tools and models that emulate complex cyber-physical platforms to enable analysis, reverse engineering, and experimentation.
We believe every employee brings a unique set of skills, experiences, and perspectives that are essential to providing innovative solutions for our customers. You do not need to have experience with every technology listed to be successful in this role. Strong fundamentals, curiosity, and the ability to learn new tools and domains are highly valued.
What you will do:
  • Work as part of a small, focused team to architect, develop, implement, and test modular software applications and tools for emulating cyber-physical systems.
  • Extend and customize existing emulation frameworks (e.g., QEMU) in C/C++ and Python to support new targets, peripherals, and capabilities.
  • Rehost unknown or sparsely documented firmware by analyzing binaries, identifying hardware dependencies, and adapting these to run correctly in emulated environments.
  • Develop emulator tooling and virtual device models to support reverse engineering and analysis of embedded systems across diverse architectures (e.g., ARM, PPC).
  • Develop digital models using virtualization tools (e.g., QEMU) and network them together to create integrated, end-to-end system simulations that closely approximate real hardware behavior.
  • Ensure model quality and correctness through unit-level and system-level testing, and by validating behavior against first principles, measured data, documentation, and hardware/software artifacts.
  • Communicate technical foundations of models and algorithms through reports and briefings

Who you are:
  • This position requires an Active Secret security clearance with eligibility for Top Secret (TS) clearance, for which U.S. citizenship is needed by U.S. Government.
  • Proficiency in C/C++ for systems-level or embedded software development
  • Proficiency in Python for tool development, automation, and integration
  • Familiarity with emulation and virtualization tools (e.g., QEMU or similar frameworks)
  • Strong understanding of computer architecture, emulation principles, and software engineering best practices (e.g., modular design, testing, code review)
  • Experience using collaborative source code management (e.g., Git)

Education:
  • BS in Computer Engineering, Computers Science, Electrical Engineering or related field

Nice to have:
  • Active Top Secret (TS) Security Clearance
  • Familiarity with network architecture and protocols, and experience integrating networked simulations
  • Experience with low-level software modifications (e.g., implants, firmware changes, binary patch development)
  • Experience at the software/hardware interface, including device drivers or real-time/embedded operating systems
  • Experience with reverse engineering and firmware rehosting for embedded systems, including analysis of instruction set architectures (e.g., ARM, PPC) and use of tools such as Ghidra, IDA Pro, or Binary Ninja
  • Experience implementing component models (e.g., sensors, actuators, dynamics, environmental factors) in Python and/or C/C++, and integrate them into system-level simulations and software processing chains
  • Experience working with hardware components and interfaces
  • Masters or PhD in related field

Pay Information
Full-Time Salary Range: $110,000 - $151,000
The salary range listed is based on external market data. Offers are based on factors, such as but not limited to, the candidate's experience, education, training, key skills/critical skills, security clearances, and prevailing market and business conditions.
STR is a growing technology company with locations near Boston, MA, Arlington, VA, near Dayton, OH, Melbourne, FL, and Carlsbad, CA. We specialize in advanced research and development for defense, intelligence, and national security in: cyber; next generation sensors, radar, sonar, communications, and electronic warfare; and artificial intelligence algorithms and analytics to make sense of the complexity that is exploding around us.
STR is committed to creating a collaborative learning environment that supports deep technical understanding and recognizes the contributions and achievements of all team members. Our work is challenging, and we go home at night knowing that we pushed the envelope of technology and made the world safer.
STR is not just any company. Our people, culture, and attitude along with their unique set of skills, experiences, and perspectives put us on a trajectory to change the world. We can't do it alone, though - we need fellow trailblazers. If you are one, join our team and help to keep our society safe! Visit us at www.str.us for more info.
STR is an equal opportunity employer. We are fully dedicated to hiring the most qualified candidate regardless of race, color, religion, sex (including gender identity, sexual orientation and pregnancy), marital status, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, genetic information or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.
If you need a reasonable accommodation for any portion of the employment process, email us at appassist@str.us and provide your contact info.
Pursuant to applicable federal law and regulations, positions at STR require employees to obtain national security clearances and satisfy the requirements for compliance with export control and other applicable laws.

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