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Freelance Embedded Systems Engineer Jobs in Rosedale, MD

Robert Half

Senior Director, Embedded Systems

Columbia, MD · On-site

$200K - $260K/yr

This role will guide engineering teams through the full product lifecycle, from concept development ... Define system architectures for rugged embedded platforms that incorporate processors, accelerators ...

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All JobsEmbedded Systems Engineer JobsFreelance Embedded Systems Engineer JobsFreelance Embedded Systems Engineer Jobs in Rosedale, MD

Freelance Embedded Systems Engineer information

See Rosedale, MD salary details

$59.9K

$131.7K

$184.2K

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

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for freelance embedded systems engineer in Rosedale, MD is $131,664.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $106,900.00 and $156,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a freelance embedded systems engineer?

Freelance embedded systems engineers are independent professionals who design, develop, and maintain embedded systems for various clients on a project basis. These engineers specialize in integrating hardware and software to create systems that perform dedicated functions within larger devices, such as automotive electronics, medical devices, or consumer electronics. Working as freelancers, they may handle tasks such as firmware development, hardware design, debugging, and system integration, often collaborating remotely with clients from different industries. Their flexible work style allows them to take on diverse projects and stay updated with the latest embedded technologies.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a freelance embedded systems engineer?

To thrive as a Freelance Embedded Systems Engineer, you need expertise in embedded C/C++ programming, microcontroller architecture, and electronics fundamentals, often supported by a degree in electrical engineering or computer science. Familiarity with tools such as oscilloscopes, logic analyzers, version control (e.g., Git), and platforms like ARM, Arduino, or RTOS, as well as certifications like Certified Embedded Systems Engineer (CESE), is highly valuable. Strong problem-solving abilities, effective communication, and the ability to manage projects independently are standout soft skills for this role. These skills are essential to deliver reliable, efficient solutions tailored to client needs while maintaining professionalism and adaptability in dynamic, project-based environments.

What are some common challenges faced by freelance embedded systems engineers, and how can they be addressed?

Freelance embedded systems engineers often encounter challenges such as managing multiple projects with varying requirements, keeping up with rapidly evolving hardware and software technologies, and ensuring effective communication with remote clients. To address these issues, it's important to maintain organized project management practices, invest time in continuous learning, and set clear expectations with clients regarding deliverables and timelines. Building a strong professional network and leveraging online collaboration tools can also enhance efficiency and client satisfaction.
What cities near Rosedale, MD are hiring for Freelance Embedded Systems Engineer jobs? Cities near Rosedale, MD with the most Freelance Embedded Systems Engineer job openings:
Freelance Embedded Systems Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Freelance Embedded Systems Engineer job openings in Rosedale, MD as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 5% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $131,664 per year, or $63.3 per hour.

Embedded Systems Design Engineer

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory

Laurel, MD • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 20 days ago

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory rating

9.6

Company rating: 9.6 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

2nd of 73 rated research

Job description

Description
Do you love designing algorithms and developing on embedded systems to solve hard problems with real-world applications?
Are you eager to take initiative and work on projects across a multidisciplinary problem space, from high-reliability to rapid prototyping?
Do you want to work in an atmosphere where risk taking, innovation, and creativity are openly encouraged and sought out?
If so, we're looking for someone like you to join our team at APL!
We are seeking an Embedded Systems Design Engineer to help us build innovative technology applications for the next generation of electronic warfare (EW) systems. Your work will contribute to ensuring the US and its allies dominate the RF spectrum. You 'll be joining our hardworking team of system engineers, algorithm developers, FPGA and embedded software engineers, and advanced EW technology enthusiasts who enjoy working together to craft creative solutions to complex challenges in addition to bringing real solutions from concept to prototyping.
As an Embedded Systems Engineer, we will trust you to ...
  • Develop software and firmware for real-time embedded systems.
  • Implement digital signal processing (DSP) algorithms for various types of communication, data link, radar, and jamming signals.
  • Integrate embedded systems with EW payloads.
  • Apply Machine Learning (ML)/Artificial Intelligence (AI) algorithms for EW applications.
  • Test and demonstrate your work in field tests and lab demos.

Qualifications
You meet our minimum qualifications for the job if you ...
  • Have a Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or a closely related technical field.
  • Have experience with MATLAB, C/C++, Python, or similar programming languages.
  • Have relevant experience working with embedded systems and embedded programming.
  • Have general knowledge of embedded systems design with FPGAs.
  • Are able to obtain an Interim Secret level security clearance by your start date, and can ultimately obtain a Secret level clearance. If selected, you will be subject to a government security clearance investigation and must meet the requirements for access to classified information. Eligibility requirements include U.S. citizenship.

You 'll go above and beyond our minimum requirements if you ...
  • Have a Master's degree in Electrical Engineering or Computer Engineering.
  • Have at least seven years of relevant experience working with embedded systems and embedded programming.
  • Have experience with VHDL, Verilog, or other FPGA development languages.
  • Have experience in programming for Software Defined Radio (SDR).
  • Are experienced with high-speed FPGA design.
  • Are experienced with digital signal processing (DSP) algorithms.
  • Hold an active DoD Secret level clearance or higher.

#LI-AG1
About Us
Why Work at APL?
The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) brings world-class expertise to our nation's most critical defense, security, space and science challenges. While we are dedicated to solving complex challenges and pioneering new technologies, what makes us truly outstanding is our culture. We offer a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere where you can bring your authentic self to work, continue to grow, and build strong connections with inspiring teammates.
At APL, we celebrate our differences of perspectives and encourage creativity and bold, new ideas. Our employees enjoy generous benefits, including a robust education assistance program, unparalleled retirement contributions, and a healthy work/life balance. APL's campus is located in the Baltimore-Washington metro area. Learn more about our career opportunities at https://www.jhuapl.edu/careers.
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, creed, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, age, physical or mental disability, genetic information, veteran status, occupation, marital or familial status, political opinion, personal appearance, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. APL is committed to providing reasonable accommodation to individuals of all abilities, including those with disabilities. If you require a reasonable accommodation to participate in any part of the hiring process, please contact Accessibility@jhuapl.edu.
The referenced pay range is based on JHU APL's good faith belief at the time of posting. Actual compensation may vary based on factors such as geographic location, work experience, market conditions, education/training and skill level with consideration for internal parity. For salaried employees scheduled to work less than 40 hours per week, annual salary will be prorated based on the number of hours worked. APL may offer bonuses or other forms of compensation per internal policy and/or contractual designation. Additional compensation may be provided in the form of a sign-on bonus, relocation benefits, locality allowance or discretionary payments for exceptional performance. APL provides eligible staff with a comprehensive benefits package including retirement plans, paid time off, medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short-term disability, long-term disability, flexible spending accounts, education assistance, and training and development. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis.
Minimum Rate
$100,000 Annually
Maximum Rate
$245,000 Annually

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