Entry Level Embedded Software Engineer Jobs in Maryland

Job Title: Software Engineer

Job Description

The Software Engineer designs, codes, and maintains complex applications with a focus on embedded systems and test and simulation solutions for electronic warfare applications. This role involves solving varied and often ambiguous technical problems, researching and analyzing alternatives when no precedent exists, and independently determining effective approaches to software and system design. The engineer contributes to high-fidelity software and hardware solutions that accurately simulate evolving electromagnetic threats used for testing aircraft sensors, electronics, and pilot training.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and maintain software applications in C and C++ with minimal supervision.
• Perform graphical user interface (GUI) programming in C++ for embedded or test and simulation systems.
• Develop embedded software and firmware for microcontroller-based systems and embedded Linux platforms.
• Analyze complex, multi-faceted technical problems and research alternative solutions when no clear precedent exists.
• Independently determine and develop approaches to solving software and system design challenges.
• Write clear and comprehensive interface control documents, design specifications, and test procedures for developed software and systems.
• Contribute to the design and development of test and simulation hardware and software for electronic warfare applications.
• Support the creation of high-fidelity software and hardware that accurately simulates enemy radar or missile threats for use on the flight line, range, or in laboratory environments.
• Ensure that simulation systems effectively support testing of aircraft sensors and electronics, as well as pilot training scenarios.
• Utilize tools such as spectrum analyzers and digital oscilloscopes to test, debug, and validate embedded systems and software.
• Work with Linux and embedded Linux environments to integrate, test, and optimize software components.
• Apply data analysis and scripting skills, including SQL, Python, and MATLAB, to support development, testing, and performance evaluation.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to refine requirements, improve system performance, and ensure high-quality deliverables.
• Document work thoroughly to support maintainability, traceability, and future enhancements.

Essential Skills

• Proficiency in C and C++ programming for application and embedded software development.
• Experience with graphical user interface (GUI) programming in C++.
• Hands-on experience with Linux and embedded Linux environments.
• Strong experience in embedded software and firmware development for microcontroller-based systems.
• Ability to analyze and solve complex technical problems that may involve multiple interrelated issues.
• Capability to independently determine and develop approaches to software and system design.
• Experience writing interface control documents, specifications, and test procedures.
• Familiarity with electronic warfare concepts or simulation of radar and missile threats, or strong interest in learning these domains.
• Ability to use test and measurement equipment such as spectrum analyzers and digital oscilloscopes.
• Strong documentation skills and attention to detail in technical writing.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Experience with firmware development and low-level hardware–software integration.
• Working knowledge of SQL for data management and analysis.
• Experience with Python for scripting, automation, and test support.
• Experience with MATLAB for modeling, simulation, or data analysis.
• coursework related to aerospace, defense, or electronic warfare systems.
• Familiarity with high-fidelity simulation techniques for electromagnetic threat environments.
• Ability to work effectively in a multidisciplinary engineering environment.
• Strong analytical, troubleshooting, and debugging skills across software and hardware interfaces.

Work Environment

The role is based in a modern, state-of-the-art engineering facility equipped with advanced tools, test equipment, and development resources. The organization offers a 9/80 work schedule, providing every other Friday off to support work–life balance. You will work with cutting-edge technology in the aerospace and defense domain, contributing to systems used on the flight line, test ranges, and in laboratory environments for electronic warfare test and training. The environment emphasizes continuous learning and professional growth, with substantial resources available for training and skill development. Work is typically performed in an office and lab setting, using Linux and embedded Linux systems, microcontroller platforms, spectrum analyzers, digital oscilloscopes, and modern software development toolchains. The culture values innovation, technical excellence, and collaboration across diverse engineering disciplines.

This is a Contract position based out of Hunt Valley, MD.

The pay range for this position is $40.00 - $90.00/hr.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following:
• Medical, dental & vision
• Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital
• 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available
• Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents)
• Short and long-term disability
• Health Spending Account (HSA)
• Transportation benefits
• Employee Assistance Program
• Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

This is a fully onsite position in Hunt Valley,MD.

This position is anticipated to close on Jul 10, 2026.

About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 20,000 consultants and 5,000 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500. We are proud to be an Engineering News-Record (ENR) Top 500 Design Firm for our engineering design services and a ClearlyRated Best of Staffing® winner for both client and talent service.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email actalentaccommodation@actalentservices.com for other accommodation options.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI): We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.