... firmware planning, and basic system hardening * Contribute to OT risk assessments, security ... Knowledge of security frameworks (NIST SP 800-82, NIST SP 800-53, CIS Controls) * Entry-level ...
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... firmware planning, and basic system hardening * Contribute to OT risk assessments, security ... Knowledge of security frameworks (NIST SP 800-82, NIST SP 800-53, CIS Controls) * Entry-level ...
Entry Level Firmware Engineer information
See Silver Spring, MD salary details
$77.5K - $89.8K
1% of jobs
$89.8K - $102K
2% of jobs
$102K - $114.2K
3% of jobs
$114.2K - $126.4K
3% of jobs
$126.4K - $138.6K
6% of jobs
$142.9K is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$138.6K - $150.8K
26% of jobs
$150.8K - $163.1K
3% of jobs
$163.1K - $175.3K
3% of jobs
The median wage is $176.1K / yr.
$175.3K - $187.5K
23% of jobs
$187.5K - $199.7K
1% of jobs
$200.8K is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$199.7K - $211.9K
27% of jobs
$77.5K
$173.1K
$211.9K
How much do entry level firmware engineer jobs pay per year?
As of Jun 24, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level firmware engineer in Silver Spring, MD is $173,093.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $147,800.00 and $211,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.
What are the common day-to-day tasks for an Entry Level Firmware Engineer?
As an Entry Level Firmware Engineer, your daily activities often include writing and debugging code for embedded devices, testing hardware interactions, and reviewing technical documentation. You'll work closely with senior engineers, hardware designers, and software teams to ensure your firmware integrates seamlessly with both the hardware and higher-level software. Troubleshooting and resolving bugs, participating in code reviews, and updating development logs or reports are also common. These tasks provide excellent opportunities to learn industry best practices, expand your technical knowledge, and develop collaboration skills crucial for career advancement.
What engineer makes $500,000 a year?
While most entry-level firmware engineers do not earn such high salaries, senior engineers with extensive experience, specialized skills, and leadership roles in high-demand industries can reach or exceed $500,000 annually, especially with bonuses and stock options. These roles often require advanced knowledge of embedded systems, real-time operating systems, and relevant certifications, and are typically found in large tech companies or specialized sectors.
What engineers make $300,000 a year?
Highly experienced engineers in specialized fields such as software engineering, data science, or certain executive roles can earn $300,000 or more annually. Senior firmware engineers with extensive expertise, advanced skills in embedded systems, and leadership responsibilities may reach this level, especially in high-demand industries or companies with competitive compensation packages.
What is an Entry Level Firmware Engineer job?
An Entry Level Firmware Engineer designs, develops, and tests low-level software that interacts closely with hardware. They work with embedded systems, writing code in languages like C or C++ to control devices such as microcontrollers, sensors, and processors. Their responsibilities often include debugging, optimizing performance, and ensuring hardware-software compatibility. They collaborate with hardware engineers and software developers to create reliable and efficient embedded systems. This role serves as a foundation for gaining expertise in embedded programming, system design, and firmware development methodologies.
Do firmware engineers make good money?
Firmware engineers typically earn competitive salaries due to their specialized skills in embedded systems, programming in languages like C and C++, and knowledge of hardware interfaces. Entry-level firmware engineers can expect starting salaries that increase with experience, certifications, and industry demand, especially in sectors like consumer electronics, automotive, and IoT. Overall, firmware engineering is considered a well-paying field within software and hardware development.
Are firmware engineers in demand?
Firmware engineers are in high demand due to the growth of embedded systems in industries such as consumer electronics, automotive, and healthcare. Skills in C, C++, and real-time operating systems are particularly valuable, and job opportunities are expected to increase as technology advances and IoT devices expand.
What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Entry Level Firmware Engineer position, and why are they important?
To thrive as an Entry Level Firmware Engineer, you need a solid understanding of embedded systems, C/C++ programming, and basic electronics, typically with a bachelor's degree in electrical or computer engineering. Familiarity with version control systems (e.g., Git), debugging tools, and hardware interfaces like UART, I2C, or SPI is often expected. Strong problem-solving abilities, effective communication, and teamwork are essential soft skills. These abilities help ensure reliable firmware development, smooth collaboration with hardware and software teams, and efficient troubleshooting in dynamic environments.
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Firmware Engineer jobs in Silver Spring, MD? For Entry Level Firmware Engineer jobs in Silver Spring, MD, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Firmware Engineer jobs in Silver Spring, MD look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Firmware Engineer jobs in Silver Spring, MD are:
What cities near Silver Spring, MD are hiring for Entry Level Firmware Engineer jobs? Cities near Silver Spring, MD with the most Entry Level Firmware Engineer job openings:
Job description
OT Cybersecurity Engineer
Location: Bethesda, MD (Hybrid – 3 days onsite)
Employment Type: Long-term contract or contract-to-hire
Clearance: Must be able to pass a standard background check and obtain a Public Trust Clearance
Employment Type: Long-term contract or contract-to-hire
Clearance: Must be able to pass a standard background check and obtain a Public Trust Clearance
Work Authorization: U.S. Citizenship required
Macro Pros has an immediate opening for an OT Cybersecurity Engineer to support the security of Operational Technology (OT) environments, including building automation, utilities, and other critical facilities systems. This role supports a client in Bethesda, Maryland.
Candidates must currently live in the Washington, DC metro area and be willing to work onsite in Bethesda three days per week.
What You’ll Do:
- Assist with inventory and documentation of OT/ICS assets and networks
- Maintain OT network and data flow diagrams, including segmented zones
- Support monitoring of OT network segments for unusual or suspicious activity
- Help triage OT-related security alerts and coordinate with cybersecurity and facilities teams
- Assist with vulnerability tracking, patching/firmware planning, and basic system hardening
- Contribute to OT risk assessments, security documentation, and compliance efforts (e.g., NIST-based controls)
- Work with facilities, biomedical/clinical engineering teams, and vendors to plan secure changes and maintenance activities
Hands-On Experience With:
- OT, controls, or building/facility systems (BAS/BMS, HVAC, utilities, PLCs)
- IT and cybersecurity fundamentals (networking, firewalls, monitoring, vulnerability management)
- Core networking and security concepts (TCP/IP, segmentation, least privilege, logging)
- Clear technical documentation and communication with both technical and non-technical teams
Preferred Qualifications:
- Minimum of 6 years of federal government experience
- Experience with OT or industrial systems (building automation, power/backup systems, lab or facility controls)
- Experience with OT/industrial protocols (BACnet, Modbus)
- Knowledge of security frameworks (NIST SP 800-82, NIST SP 800-53, CIS Controls)
- Entry-level certifications such as Security+, Network+, CySA+, or OT/ICS-focused training
- Experience with OT security platforms (Nozomi, Dragos, Claroty)
- Familiarity with federal security frameworks (FedRAMP, FISMA, RMF, NIST CSF, NIST SP 800-series)
Basic Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree in cybersecurity, computer science, engineering (mechanical, electrical, controls, systems), IT, or a related field
or an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience
Work Environment:
- Onsite in Bethesda three days per week (flexible on days) and two days remote
- Occasional off-hours work to support maintenance windows or incident response
- Regular access to mechanical rooms, plants, labs, and clinical areas (PPE and safety procedures required)
About Macro Solutions
Sourced by ZipRecruiter
Industry
It services
Company size
51 - 200 Employees
Headquarters location
Washington, DC, US
Year founded
2000