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Freelance Embedded Software Engineer Jobs in Washington, DC

APOGEE RESEARCH LLC

Embedded Software Engineer

Arlington, VA · 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.

1872 Consulting

Embedded Software Engineer - C/C++

Mclean, VA · On-site

$134K - $177K/yr

Embedded Software Engineer As a Software Developer here, you will spend your day designing, coding, and testing software. Our projects are non-standard, highly customized, and will push you to new ...

1872 Consulting

Embedded Software Engineer - C/C++

Mclean, VA · On-site

$134K - $177K/yr

Embedded Software Engineer As a Software Developer here, you will spend your day designing, coding, and testing software. Our projects are non-standard, highly customized, and will push you to new ...

Alarm.com

Embedded Software Engineer I

Tysons Corner, VA · On-site

$132K - $174K/yr

Embedded Software Engineer I Alarm.com is a rapidly expanding technology company developing innovative cloud and device solutions across a wide range of cutting-edge technologies that provide a ...

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All JobsEmbedded Software Engineer JobsFreelance Embedded Software Engineer JobsFreelance Embedded Software Engineer Jobs in Washington, DC

Freelance Embedded Software Engineer information

See Washington, DC salary details

$79.3K

$173.7K

$197.1K

How much do freelance embedded software engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for freelance embedded software engineer in Washington, DC is $173,722.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $148,900.00 and $195,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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, DC?

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

What are popular job titles related to Freelance Embedded Software Engineer jobs in Washington, DC?

For Freelance Embedded Software Engineer jobs in Washington, DC, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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

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

Freelance Embedded Software Engineer jobs near you

Embedded Software Engineer

APOGEE RESEARCH LLC

Arlington, VA • On-site

$151K - $199K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, PTO

Re-posted 12 days ago

Job description

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. This change is driven by a need for faster adaptation to adversarial environments, which requires the ability to field resilient, distributed systems in days to weeks rather than months to years (much less decades).

Apogee Research is looking for Embedded Software Engineers to lead the creation of capabilities addressing currently unmet needs in National Security. This focuses on implementing cutting edge software capabilities at the tactical edge -- working with existing military and commercial hardware.   Limited travel to support test and exercise events is expected.  

The details of the position will vary based on the expertise and desires of the candidate and the specific project being executed, however, common themes include:

  • Performing hands-on technical work including design and development of low-level software (typically C and C++) for tactical systems across a variety of architectures and POSIX compliant operating systems.
  • Debugging cyber-physical systems through a deep understanding of both software and computer hardware issues.  
  • Supporting demonstration and testing in both laboratory and test events settings.
  • Learning new technologies and developing fundamentally new approaches as needed.
  • Working in cross-discipline teams to solve hard problems through collaboration.  

Qualified candidates should have: 

  • Extensive experience building low level software that reliably runs in a range of environmental conditions.  
  • High proficiency in C and C++.
  • Thorough understanding of the theory and practice of buffers, transports, schedulers, and similar low-level software constructs.  
  • Theoretical and practical knowledge of signal processing techniques such as (Nyquist sampling, convolutions, Fourier transforms, etc. is a strong plus.
  • Understanding of hardware (ruggedized compute, amplifiers, software defined radios, etc.) is a strong plus.  

The position is located in our Arlington, VA office (full-time in person). Existing DoD Top Secret clearance is extremely desirable, otherwise all candidates must be eligible to obtain one and therefore all candidates must be a US citizen to apply.

About Apogee Research

Apogee Research offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes health, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance, FSAs, paid vacation, sick leave, and paid holidays. Conveniently located in Arlington, VA, we are a short walking distance from the Ballston Metro station. We offer the choice of paid garage parking or a contribution towards a transit account.

Apogee Research, LLC is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity and Affirmative Action employer. We do not discriminate based upon race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy and gender identity), national origin, political affiliation, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, genetic information, age, membership in an employee organization, parental status, military service, or other non-merit factors.