ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Freelance Embedded System Software Engineer Jobs in Reston, VA

Qrypt

Embedded Software Engineer

Germantown, MD · Hybrid

$125K - $155K/yr

The Embedded Software Engineer will own the design, development, and test of digital logic and ... Lead the design, development, and test of systems composing of hardware, digital logic, embedded ...

Zetier

CNO Embedded Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

CNO Embedded Engineer Zetier seeks senior Computer Network Operations (CNO) embedded system ... Systems software development experience (e.g. OS kernel drivers) * Experience working in networking ...

Zetier

CNO Embedded Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

CNO Embedded Engineer Zetier seeks senior Computer Network Operations (CNO) embedded system ... Systems software development experience (e.g. OS kernel drivers) * Experience working in networking ...

TalentRemedy

Embedded Software Engineer

Herndon, VA

$135K - $177K/yr

Their system consists of a constellation of commercial satellites and a network of ground stations and as the Embedded Software Engineer, you will be responsible for designing, developing and ...

TalentRemedy

Embedded Software Engineer

Herndon, VA · On-site

$135K - $177K/yr

Their system consists of a constellation of commercial satellites and a network of ground stations and as the Embedded Software Engineer, you will be responsible for designing, developing and ...

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 ...

previous pagenext page

Showing results 21-40

All JobsEmbedded System Software Engineer JobsFreelance Embedded System Software Engineer JobsFreelance Embedded System Software Engineer Jobs in Reston, VA

Freelance Embedded System Software Engineer information

See Reston, VA salary details

$72.8K

$159.6K

$181K

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

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for freelance embedded system software engineer in Reston, VA is $159,573.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $136,800.00 and $180,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a freelance embedded system software engineer?

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.

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 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.

What are the most commonly searched types of Embedded System Software Engineer jobs in Reston, VA?

The most popular types of Embedded System Software Engineer jobs in Reston, VA are:

What are popular job titles related to Freelance Embedded System Software Engineer jobs in Reston, VA?

For Freelance Embedded System Software Engineer jobs in Reston, VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Freelance Embedded System Software Engineer jobs in Reston, VA look for?

The top searched job categories for Freelance Embedded System Software Engineer jobs in Reston, VA are:

What cities near Reston, VA are hiring for Freelance Embedded System Software Engineer jobs?

Cities near Reston, VA with the most Freelance Embedded System Software Engineer job openings:

Freelance Embedded System Software Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Freelance Embedded System Software Engineer job openings in Reston, VA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $159,573 per year, or $76.7 per hour.

Embedded Software Engineer

Qrypt

Germantown, MD • Hybrid

$125K - $155K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 24 days ago

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.