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Freelance Embedded Software Engineer Jobs in Washington

Embedded Software Engineer

Germantown, MD ยท Hybrid

$125K - $155K/yr

The Embedded Software Engineer will own the design, development, and test of digital logic and embedded software. This position is in Germantown, MD (hybrid -- 4 days in office per week) What you'll ...

Embedded Software Engineer This role focuses on developing next-generation embedded Linux software for advanced submarine acoustic systems and newly designed hardware platforms. You will work on a ...

Embedded Software Engineer

Herndon, VA ยท On-site

$90 - $120/hr

Overview We are looking for a professional Embedded Software Engineer, a team player with solid technical skills to add to our core engineering team. Candidates must have a strong technical ...

Embedded Software Engineer

Dulles, VA ยท On-site

$123K - $151K/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 ...

Embedded Software Engineer

Mclean, VA ยท On-site

$52K - $108K/yr

Embedded Software Engineer The Opportunity: As an embedded software engineer, you can resolve a problem with a complete end-to-end solution in a fast, agile environment. If you're looking for the ...

Embedded Software Engineer

Sterling, VA ยท On-site

$123K - $151K/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 ...

Embedded Software Engineer

Dulles, VA ยท On-site

$123K - $151K/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 ...

Embedded Software Engineer

Herndon, VA ยท On-site +1

$70K - $123K/yr

Overview We are looking for a professional Embedded Software Engineer, a team player with solid technical skills to add to our core engineering team. Candidates must have a strong technical ...

Embedded Software Engineer

Savage, MD

$137K - $180K/yr

Embedded Software Engineer Savage, Maryland 1 Year Must haves 10+ years of experience Embedded microprocessor design experience C/C++ Experience writing unit tests/test plans Code optimization ...

Embedded Software Engineer

Herndon, VA ยท On-site +1

$70K - $123K/yr

We are looking for a professional Embedded Software Engineer, a team player with solid technical skills to add to our core engineering team. Candidates must have a strong technical background and be ...

Embedded Software Engineer

Herndon, VA ยท On-site +1

$70K - $123K/yr

Overview We are looking for a professional Embedded Software Engineer, a team player with solid technical skills to add to our core engineering team. Candidates must have a strong technical ...

Embedded Software Engineer

Arlington, VA ยท On-site

$151K - $199K/yr

Embedded Software Engineer Apogee Research is at the forefront of a revolution in how the DoD operates: a turn towards compositional systems of systems instead of traditional monolithic architectures.

Embedded Software Engineer

Herndon, VA ยท On-site

$71 - $124/hr

Overview We are looking for a professional Embedded Software Engineer, a team player with solid technical skills to add to our core engineering team. Candidates must have a strong technical ...

Embedded Software Engineer

Falls Church, VA ยท Hybrid

$140K - $160K/yr

We are looking for an experienced Embedded Software Engineer responsible for architecture, design, development & testing of CheckVideo's flagship product assets. Additional duties include writing ...

Showing results 21-40

Freelance Embedded Software Engineer information

What is a freelance embedded software engineer?

A Freelance Embedded Software Engineer is a professional who designs, develops, tests, and maintains software that operates on embedded systems, such as microcontrollers and specialized hardware, while working independently or on a contract basis. Unlike full-time employees, freelancers typically work with multiple clients on a project-by-project basis. Their responsibilities often include writing firmware, optimizing code for hardware constraints, and integrating software with electronic components. Freelancers in this field enjoy flexibility and variety in their work, but are also responsible for managing their own business operations.

What are some common challenges freelance embedded software engineers face when working with multiple clients?

Freelance embedded software engineers often juggle several projects simultaneously, each with unique hardware platforms, toolchains, and client expectations. Managing communication across different time zones and ensuring clear documentation for handoffs can be challenging. Additionally, freelancers must quickly adapt to varying development environments and maintain up-to-date knowledge of industry standards to deliver quality solutions. Effective organization and transparent project management are key to overcoming these hurdles.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a freelance embedded software engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Freelance Embedded Software Engineer, you need a strong background in computer science or electrical engineering, proficiency in embedded C/C++, and experience with microcontrollers or real-time operating systems. Familiarity with development tools such as Keil, IAR, or Eclipse, version control systems like Git, and relevant certifications (e.g., ARM Accredited Engineer) are highly valued. Excellent problem-solving skills, self-motivation, and strong communication are crucial for managing diverse client projects and remote collaborations. These skills ensure you can deliver reliable, efficient solutions tailored to client needs while maintaining professional autonomy and quality standards.

What is the difference between Freelance Embedded Software Engineer vs Embedded Software Developer?

AspectFreelance Embedded Software EngineerEmbedded Software Developer
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in computer engineering or related field, with certifications like ARM or RTOS expertiseSimilar credentials, often with certifications in embedded systems or specific platforms
Work EnvironmentIndependent, project-based, often remote or client-siteUsually employed by companies, working in teams within offices or labs
Industry UsageFreelance market for custom projects, consulting, or short-term contractsFull-time or contract roles within tech, automotive, medical, or consumer electronics industries

While both roles require embedded systems knowledge and similar credentials, a Freelance Embedded Software Engineer works independently on diverse projects, often remotely, whereas an Embedded Software Developer is typically employed by a company, working within a team on ongoing product development.

What are the most commonly searched types of Embedded Software Engineer jobs in Washington?

The most popular types of Embedded Software Engineer jobs in Washington are:

What job categories do people searching Freelance Embedded Software Engineer jobs in Washington look for?

The top searched job categories for Freelance Embedded Software Engineer jobs in Washington are:

Infographic showing various Freelance Embedded Software Engineer job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution.

Embedded Software Engineer

Qrypt

Germantown, MD โ€ข Hybrid

$125K - $155K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 29 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Lead the design, development, and test of systems comprising hardware, digital logic, embedded software, Linux kernel modules, and user-space Linux software

  • Assist in the design, review, and debug of analog/mixed signal circuit boards

  • Lead hardware/FPGA/software integration efforts


Job description

Qrypt's mission is to protect the world's data and restore privacy. Qrypt hardens cybersecurity and future-proofs encryption against quantum attacks by eliminating key transmission. Qrypt's unique technology independently generates symmetric keys at multiple endpoints for critical workflows today. We are a passionate team of engineers, physicists, and cryptographers committed to transforming the way the world safeguards data and communications!

Qrypt is looking for an Embedded Software Engineer to join our team. The Embedded Software Engineer will own the design, development, and test of digital logic and embedded software.

This position is in Germantown, MD (hybrid — 4 days in office per week)

What you'll do
  • Lead the design, development, and test of systems composing of hardware, digital logic, embedded software, Linux kernel modules, and user-space Linux software
  • Assist in the design, review, and debug of analog/mixed signal circuit boards
  • Develop a deep understanding of the domain (quantum random number generators, network security systems) to architect future products and systems and validate existing products and systems
  • Lead hardware/FPGA/software integration efforts
  • Develop manufacturing and test tools and procedures, and supervise their execution
  • Use AI-assisted and agentic development tooling to accelerate your work while owning the correctness and quality of everything you ship
  • Help shape how the team adopts AI-assisted development (instruction conventions, review standards) as tooling matures
  • Assist in project planning and management
What you'll need
  • Bachelor's degree in Electrical or Computer Engineering, or a similar technical field, (Math, Physics, Engineering) and/or relevant work experience
  • 4+ years of experience developing software for embedded platforms or the Linux kernel
  • Expertise in the design and development of embedded systems
  • Proficiency with C, C++, bash and/or Python
  • Experience in the installation, upgrade, configuration, and performance tuning of Linux-based servers
  • Experience with bringing up hardware
  • Familiarity with FPGA development, Verilog or VHDL
  • Familiarity with RF and low-noise analog circuit and board design
  • Familiarity with electronics lab/test equipment (oscilloscope, logic analyzer, etc.)
  • Familiarity with implementing signal processing and/or control system algorithms
  • Fluency with AI-assisted development and the judgment to apply it where it adds real leverage — reviewing, correcting, and taking full ownership of AI-generated work
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills
Benefits & Perks
  • Competitive Pay & Equity participation
  • Comprehensive health, dental and vision coverage
  • Strong 401(k) match
  • In-office lunch and snacks
  • The opportunity to be part of a company solving one of the most critical technology challenges of our time!
Compensation

The annual base pay range for this role is between $125,000 - $155,000. The actual base salary pay offered may vary based on multiple factors such as qualifications, experience, transferable skills, level of education, and other factors permitted by law. Please note that this salary information is solely for candidates hired to perform work in this location and refers to the amount Qrypt is willing to pay at the time of this posting. The range listed is just one component of Qrypt's total compensation package.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Qrypt is committed to creating a diverse environment and is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, age, or veteran status. If you have a disability and need assistance with our employment application process, please email us at info@qrypt.com to obtain assistance.

We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses and identifying potential inconsistencies or verification signals in application materials based on available information. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.