ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Freelance Embedded System Software Engineer Jobs in Virginia

SAIC

Senior Embedded Software Engineer

Dahlgren, VA

$120K - $160K/yr

Software Subcategory: Embedded SW Engr Schedule: Full-Time Shift: Day Job Travel: Yes - 25% of the ... Participate in system architecture discussions and assist in defining requirements and design ...

SAIC

Senior Embedded Software Engineer

Dahlgren, VA · On-site

$120K - $160K/yr

Software Subcategory: Embedded SW Engr Schedule: Full-Time Shift: Day Job Travel: Yes - 25% of the ... Participate in system architecture discussions and assist in defining requirements and design ...

JRC Careers

Embedded Software Developer

Dahlgren, VA · On-site

JRC is seeking an Embedded Software Engineer to design, develop, and test embedded software and firmware solutions for microcontroller, RTOS, and Linux-based systems. This role involves hardware ...

SAIC

Senior Embedded Software Engineer

Dahlgren, VA · On-site

$120K - $160K/yr

Description SAIC is seeking an Embedded Software Engineer in Dahlgren, VA. Responsibilities ... Participate in system architecture discussions and assist in defining requirements and design ...

Cymertek

Space Systems Software Engineer

Tysons, VA · On-site

$173K - $205K/yr

Space Systems Software Engineer LOCATION Tysons, VA 22182 CLEARANCE TS/SCI Full Poly (Please note ... Experience with embedded systems software * Strong understanding of software integration in complex ...

Cymertek

Space Systems Software Engineer

Reston, VA · On-site

$180K - $213K/yr

Space Systems Software Engineer LOCATION Reston, VA 20190 CLEARANCE TS/SCI Full Poly (Please note ... Experience with embedded systems software * Strong understanding of software integration in complex ...

Cymertek

Space Systems Software Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$178K - $211K/yr

Space Systems Software Engineer LOCATION Chantilly, VA 20151 CLEARANCE TS/SCI Full Poly (Please ... Experience with embedded systems software * Strong understanding of software integration in complex ...

JRC Careers

Embedded Software Developer

Dahlgren, VA · On-site

JRC is seeking an Embedded Software Engineer to design, develop, and test embedded software and firmware solutions for microcontroller, RTOS, and Linux-based systems. This role involves hardware ...

Cymertek

Space Systems Software Engineer

Tysons, VA · On-site

$173K - $205K/yr

Space Systems Software Engineer LOCATIONTysons, VA 22182 CLEARANCETS/SCI Full Poly (Please note ... Experience with embedded systems software * Strong understanding of software integration in complex ...

Cymertek

Space Systems Software Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$178K - $211K/yr

Space Systems Software Engineer LOCATIONChantilly, VA 20151 CLEARANCETS/SCI Full Poly (Please note ... Experience with embedded systems software * Strong understanding of software integration in complex ...

Cymertek

Space Systems Software Engineer

Reston, VA · On-site

$180K - $213K/yr

Space Systems Software Engineer LOCATIONReston, VA 20190 CLEARANCETS/SCI Full Poly (Please note ... Experience with embedded systems software * Strong understanding of software integration in complex ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsEmbedded System Software Engineer JobsFreelance Embedded System Software Engineer JobsFreelance Embedded System Software Engineer Jobs in Virginia

Freelance Embedded System Software Engineer information

What does a Freelance Embedded System Software Engineer do?

A Freelance Embedded System Software Engineer designs, develops, and tests software that runs on embedded systems, which are specialized computing systems within larger devices like cars, appliances, or industrial machines. They typically work independently or on a contract basis, collaborating with clients to understand requirements and deliver customized software solutions. Their responsibilities often include writing low-level code, optimizing for performance and memory usage, and troubleshooting hardware-software integration issues.

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

AspectFreelance Embedded System Software EngineerEmbedded Firmware Developer
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in electrical engineering, computer science, or related fields; certifications are optionalSimilar educational background; certifications like Certified Embedded Systems Engineer can be advantageous
Work EnvironmentIndependent, project-based work often remote; collaborates with multiple clientsUsually employed by a company or works on in-house projects; may work on-site or remotely
Industry UsageUsed across various industries including IoT, automotive, consumer electronicsPrimarily in product development, consumer electronics, automotive, and industrial systems

Both roles require embedded programming skills and knowledge of hardware. The main difference lies in the work setting: Freelance Embedded System Software Engineers work independently on diverse projects, while Embedded Firmware Developers are often employed by companies focusing on firmware development for specific products.

How do freelance embedded system software engineers typically manage project scope and communication with clients?

Freelance embedded system software engineers often work independently or as part of small remote teams, making clear communication and project scope management essential. They regularly use project management tools and set milestones to clarify deliverables and timelines with clients. Addressing technical constraints and hardware integration challenges early in the process helps avoid misunderstandings. Frequent status updates and transparent discussions about changes or obstacles ensure projects stay on track and meet client expectations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Freelance Embedded System Software Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Freelance Embedded System Software Engineer, you need a solid background in embedded C/C++ programming, microcontroller architecture, and real-time operating systems, often supported by a degree in electrical engineering or computer science. Familiarity with hardware debugging tools, version control systems (like Git), and development platforms such as ARM, AVR, or PIC is typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, self-motivation, and clear client communication help freelancers stand out in this role. These competencies ensure reliable, efficient solutions and successful project delivery in dynamic and client-driven environments.
What are popular job titles related to Freelance Embedded System Software Engineer jobs in Virginia? For Freelance Embedded System Software Engineer jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Freelance Embedded System Software Engineer jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Freelance Embedded System Software Engineer jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Freelance Embedded System Software Engineer jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Freelance Embedded System Software Engineer job openings:
Freelance Embedded System Software Engineer jobs near you
Senior Embedded Software Engineer

Senior Embedded Software Engineer

SAIC

Dahlgren, VA

$120K - $160K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 21 days ago

SAIC rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 79 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

66th of 207 rated it services

Job description

Job ID: 2612681

Location: Dahlgren, VA, US

Date Posted: 2026-05-18

Category: Software

Subcategory: Embedded SW Engr

Schedule: Full-Time

Shift: Day Job

Travel: Yes - 25% of the time

Minimum Clearance Required: Interim_Secret

Clearance Level Must Be Able to Obtain: Secret

Potential for Remote Work: ORA_ON_SITE


Description

SAIC is seeking an Embedded Software Engineer in Dahlgren, VA. 

Responsibilities:

  • Design, implement, and test embedded software solutions in C/C++ for microcontrollers, real time operating systems (RTOS), or Linux based embedded systems
  • Develop firmware and low level drivers to interface with sensors, communication buses, and custom hardware
  • Support integration of embedded software with hardware components, including bring up, debugging, and troubleshooting
  • Participate in system architecture discussions and assist in defining requirements and design specifications
  • Implement secure coding practices and support cyber-hardened embedded software designs
  • Conduct unit testing, integration testing, and performance validation
  • Analyze system logs, memory usage, and timing behavior to optimize performance
  • Create and maintain technical documentation, including design descriptions, interface control documents (ICDs), test procedures, and user guides
  • Participate in Agile sprint cycles, technical reviews, and code walkthroughs
  • Provide technical support for fielded systems and assist with defect resolution
  • Collaborate with electrical, systems, and test engineering teams to ensure end to end solution performance
  • Other duties as assigned

Qualifications

  • A Bachelor of science (BS) degree from an accredited college or university in an engineering, scientific, or technical discipline
  • Six (6) years professional technical experience which includes at least four (4) years specialized experience performing computer hardware engineering, software design, coding and compilation of code; computer or software requirements
  • Management, computer systems or software integration; and utilizing systems engineering software tools
  • Specialized experience shall also include demonstrated ability to engineer
  • Complex systems with integrated software and hardware solutions. An example includes experience related to weapons systems and/or Navy programs utilizing agile software design processes, such as, but not limited to, Python, R, HTML, C/C++, Unix, and Linux
  • Strong understanding of SharePoint and Microsoft Teams, including experience building and managing sites, pages, lists, and libraries
  • Strong experience developing embedded software in C and/or C++
  • Experience working with microcontrollers, SoCs, or embedded Linux systems
  • Hands on experience with embedded toolchains, debugging tools (JTAG, SWD), oscilloscopes, logic analyzers, or serial interfaces
  • Knowledge of embedded communication protocols such as UART, SPI, I2C, CAN, Ethernet, or similar
  • Strong understanding of real time constraints, interrupts, and low level hardware interactions
  • Familiarity with version control systems (Git preferred)
  • Ability to analyze technical problems and produce reliable solutions under schedule constraints
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Experience with RTOS environments (FreeRTOS, VxWorks, QNX, RTEMS, etc.)
  • Experience with ARM Cortex processors or similar embedded architectures
  • Familiarity with Python for test automation and scripting
  • Experience with embedded security, trusted computing, or secure boot
  • Background in DoD, Navy systems, or safety critical applications
  • Experience with modeling tools, interface definition, or hardware simulation

SECURITY CLEARANCE REQUIREMENTS:

  • Must be able obtain and maintain security clearance at the Secret level. US Citizenship is a requirement for Secret clearance at this location

Physical Demands:

  • Must be able to lift up to 15 pounds
  • Must be able to stand and walk for prolonged amounts of time
  • Must be able to twist, bend and squat periodically

Target salary range: $120,001 - $160,000. The estimate displayed represents the typical salary range for this position based on experience and other factors.

What SAIC employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Apply