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Hardware Software Engineer Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Software Engineer I Location: Fort Meade, MD Required Clearance : TS/SCI w/ Full-Scope Poly Salary ... hardware/software trade-offs, software reuse, integration of Commercial Off-the-shelf (COTS ...

Job Title Software Engineer All development languages Entry - Principal Level Active TS/SCI FSP is ... Provides specific input to the software components of system design to include hardware/software ...

Software Engineer

Annapolis Junction, MD · On-site

$80K - $300K/yr

Software Engineer * All development languages Entry - Principal Level * Active TS/SCI FSP is ... Provides specific input to the software components of system design to include hardware/software ...

Software Engineer, Senior Advisor

Laurel, MD · On-site

$122K - $160K/yr

The Software Engineer develops, maintains, and enhances advanced software systems, ensuring ... hardware/software builds, staging, testing, and integration. • Develop and enforce hardware ...

Software Engineer 2

Laurel, MD · On-site

$96K - $132K/yr

The software engineer develops, maintains, and enhances complex and diverse software systems based ... Provides specific input to the software components of system design to include hardware/software ...

SOFTWARE ENGINEER, SENIOR ADVISOR

Laurel, MD · On-site

$122K - $160K/yr

The Software Engineer develops, maintains, and enhances advanced software systems, focusing on ... hardware/software builds, staging, testing, and integration. • Develop and enforce hardware ...

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Showing results 1-20

Hardware Software Engineer information

See Washington salary details

$57.8K

$165.6K

$222.6K

How much do hardware software engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for hardware software engineer in Washington is $165,620.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $139,900.00 and $184,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges Hardware Software Engineers face when integrating new hardware with existing software systems?

Hardware Software Engineers often encounter challenges when ensuring that new hardware components work seamlessly with legacy software. Compatibility issues, driver development, and real-time performance tuning can be complex, requiring close collaboration with both hardware designers and software developers. Effective troubleshooting and thorough testing are essential to prevent bottlenecks or unexpected behaviors. Being proactive in understanding both hardware constraints and software architectures helps mitigate these challenges and ensures smooth system operation.

What is the difference between Hardware Software Engineer vs Network Engineer?

AspectHardware Software EngineerNetwork Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's in Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or related fields; certifications like CompTIA Network+ or Cisco CCNABachelor's in Computer Science, Network Engineering, or related; certifications like Cisco CCNA, CCNP
Work EnvironmentDesigning, developing, testing hardware and software components; often in labs or office settingsConfiguring, managing, and troubleshooting network systems; typically in data centers or office environments
Industry UsageTechnology, manufacturing, consumer electronicsTelecommunications, IT services, enterprise networks

While both roles require technical expertise and certifications, Hardware Software Engineers focus on creating and integrating hardware and software systems, whereas Network Engineers specialize in designing and maintaining network infrastructure. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

What does a Hardware Software Engineer do?

A Hardware Software Engineer is responsible for designing, developing, and integrating both hardware components and software systems to ensure they work together seamlessly. These professionals often collaborate across teams to build embedded systems, troubleshoot technical issues, and optimize performance. Their work can include tasks like writing firmware, testing prototypes, and developing device drivers. The goal is to bridge the gap between hardware and software to create efficient, reliable products.

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

To thrive as a Hardware Software Engineer, you need a strong background in computer engineering, embedded systems, and proficiency in programming languages like C/C++ and hardware description languages, often supported by a relevant degree. Familiarity with tools such as oscilloscopes, logic analyzers, version control systems, and development environments like MATLAB or FPGA toolchains is typically required. Strong problem-solving abilities, teamwork, and effective communication are vital soft skills that help bridge hardware and software integration. These skills and qualities are essential for designing, developing, and troubleshooting complex systems that require seamless interaction between hardware and software components.
Software Engineer, Level 3

Software Engineer, Level 3

Independent Software, Inc.

Annapolis, MD • On-site

Full-time

Posted 3 days ago


Job description

What You Will Do:
At Independent Software, as a Software Engineer Level 3, you will design, develop, maintain, and enhance complex software systems supporting mission-critical operations and advanced technical environments. You will work on highly technical projects involving processing-intensive analytics, real-time systems, large-scale data processing, and enterprise software solutions.
In this role, you will collaborate with cross-functional engineering teams to develop scalable and efficient software solutions based on documented requirements. You will contribute to the full software development lifecycle, from requirements analysis and system design through testing, integration, deployment, and sustainment.
This position requires strong problem-solving skills, software engineering expertise, and the ability to work within secure, fast-paced environments supporting critical mission objectives
Key Responsibilities:
  • Design, develop, test, maintain, and enhance complex software systems and applications
  • Develop software solutions supporting analytics platforms, large-scale data processing, and real-time operational systems
  • Analyze documented requirements and translate them into functional software components and system enhancements
  • Review and test software components for adherence to design requirements and operational standards
  • Troubleshoot and resolve software defects, performance issues, and system integration problems
  • Participate in software architecture and system design activities, including hardware/software trade-off analysis
  • Support integration and evaluation of Commercial Off-the-Shelf (COTS) and Government Off-the-Shelf (GOTS) technologies
  • Perform requirements analysis and synthesis from system-level requirements to individual software components
  • Collaborate with engineers, analysts, and mission partners to support system integration and operational objectives
  • Develop and maintain technical documentation, software design artifacts, and test procedures
  • Participate in code reviews and apply software development best practices and methodologies
  • Support modernization, optimization, and enhancement efforts across enterprise software environments

Required Skills and Qualifications:
  • Experience developing, maintaining, and enhancing complex software systems
  • Strong understanding of software engineering principles, methodologies, and best practices
  • Experience with software development, testing, debugging, and system integration
  • Ability to analyze technical requirements and develop scalable software solutions
  • Experience supporting processing-intensive analytics, large data systems, or real-time systems
  • Understanding of software architecture, system design, and hardware/software integration concepts
  • Experience working with Linux, UNIX, or Windows development environments
  • Strong analytical, troubleshooting, and problem-solving skills
  • Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a team environment
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills

Education and Experience:
  • Bachelor's degree and fourteen (14) years of relevant experience; OR
  • No degree and eighteen (18) years of relevant experience

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Experience with large-scale distributed systems or data processing environments
  • Experience with real-time systems or protocol processing
  • Experience with Agile software development methodologies
  • Familiarity with COTS/GOTS integration and system modernization efforts
  • Experience working in secure or mission-critical environments

Clearance Requirement:
  • Must possess an active TS SCI with appropriate Polygraph to be considered for this role

Why Choose Independent Software:
At Independent Software, our people are the mission. We've built a company around collaboration, integrity, and innovation and we make sure our team has the tools and support to grow, succeed, and thrive.
When you join us, you will:
  • Support critical national security missions that matter
  • Be part of a close-knit, employee-first culture where your voice is heard
  • Expand your skills through ongoing training, mentorship, and career development
  • Enjoy competitive compensation, generous benefits, and work-life balance

Ready to take the next step in your career? Join us and be part of something bigger.
Apply today.
We're an equal opportunity employer. All applicants will be considered for employment without attention to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran or disability status.