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Principal Embedded Engineer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Principal CNO Software Engineer Zetier is seeking Principal CNO Software Engineers to develop ... Development on embedded platforms (uBoot, drone firmware, IOT) * Reverse engineering experience ...

Principal FPGA Engineer

Ashburn, VA · On-site

$144K - $192K/yr

Principal FPGA Engineer - Onsite position Curtiss-Wright is seeking an experienced Principal FPGA ... Embedded processor design and C software development * Vivado IP Integrator or other IP integration ...

Principal CNO Software Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

$155K - $208K/yr

Principal CNO Software Engineer Zetier is seeking Principal CNO Software Engineers to develop ... Development on embedded platforms (uBoot, drone firmware, IOT) * Reverse engineering experience ...

Principal FPGA Engineer

Ashburn, VA · On-site

$144K - $192K/yr

Principal FPGA Engineer - Onsite position Curtiss-Wright is seeking an experienced Principal FPGA ... Embedded processor design and C software development * Vivado IP Integrator or other IP integration ...

Principal FPGA Engineer

Ashburn, VA · On-site

$144K - $192K/yr

Principal FPGA Engineer - Onsite position Curtiss-Wright is seeking an experienced Principal FPGA ... Embedded processor design and C software development * Vivado IP Integrator or other IP integration ...

Principal CNO Software Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

$155K - $208K/yr

Principal CNO Software Engineer Zetier is seeking Principal CNO Software Engineers to develop ... Development on embedded platforms (uBoot, drone firmware, IOT) * Reverse engineering experience ...

Principal FPGA Engineer - Onsite position Curtiss-Wright is seeking an experienced Principal FPGA ... Embedded processor design and C software development * Vivado IP Integrator or other IP integration ...

Principal FPGA Engineer - Onsite position Curtiss-Wright is seeking an experienced Principal FPGA ... Embedded processor design and C software development * Vivado IP Integrator or other IP integration ...

Draper is actively seeking a Principal Cyber Effects Engineer that will support current and future ... Duties/Responsibilities Define and evolve software architecture for embedded, realtime, and ...

Showing results 21-40

Principal Embedded Engineer information

What is a principal embedded engineer?

A Principal Embedded Engineer is a senior-level professional who designs, develops, and oversees the implementation of embedded systems, which are specialized computing systems that operate within larger devices like automobiles, medical equipment, and industrial machines. They typically lead technical teams, define system architectures, and ensure that embedded solutions meet performance, reliability, and safety requirements. Principal Embedded Engineers often mentor junior engineers and collaborate with cross-functional teams to deliver complex projects from concept to production.

How does a principal embedded engineer typically balance technical leadership with hands-on development work?

As a Principal Embedded Engineer, you are expected to provide both technical direction and contribute directly to development tasks. This often involves mentoring junior engineers, performing code reviews, and setting architectural standards, while still engaging in critical coding, debugging, and system integration activities. Balancing these responsibilities requires strong time management and the ability to prioritize high-impact tasks. You'll frequently collaborate with cross-functional teams—including hardware, software, and QA—to ensure cohesive product development and delivery.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a principal embedded engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Principal Embedded Engineer, you need advanced expertise in embedded systems design, strong programming skills (often in C/C++), and a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with RTOS, embedded development tools, hardware debugging equipment, and certifications such as Certified Embedded Systems Engineer are typical requirements. Leadership, problem-solving, and effective communication skills help you guide teams and manage complex projects. These skills ensure the reliable development of critical embedded products and successful coordination across multidisciplinary engineering teams.

What is the difference between Principal Embedded Engineer vs Embedded Software Engineer?

AspectPrincipal Embedded EngineerEmbedded Software Engineer
QualificationsBachelor's/Master's in Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or related; extensive experienceBachelor's or higher in relevant field; entry to mid-level experience
ResponsibilitiesLeading design, architecture, and technical strategy; mentoring teamsDeveloping, testing, and maintaining embedded software
Work EnvironmentCross-functional teams, leadership roles, project planningHands-on coding, debugging, and implementation
Industry UsageUsed in advanced product development, system architectureCommon in product development, firmware updates

The Principal Embedded Engineer typically holds a senior, strategic role with leadership and architecture responsibilities, requiring extensive experience and advanced skills. In contrast, the Embedded Software Engineer focuses on coding and implementation tasks. Both roles are vital in embedded systems development but differ in scope and seniority.

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Principal Embedded Engineer jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Principal Embedded Engineer job openings:

Embedded Software Engineer - Level 3 or 4

Sterling, VA • On-site

Northrop Grumman
Space Research Administration • 10K+ employees

$130K - $171K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, PTO

Posted 12 days ago


Northrop Grumman rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 372 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

RELOCATION ASSISTANCE: No relocation assistance available CLEARANCE REQUIRED FOR START: No CLEARANCE TYPE: None TRAVEL: Yes, 10% of the Time Description At Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way.

Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work - and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible. Our employees are not only part of history, they're making history. Northrop Grumman's Space Sector is seeking an Embedded Software Engineer - Level 3 or 4 to join our team in Dulles, VA.

This role will join our team of qualified, diverse individuals in the Space Systems organization developing space vehicle hardware-in-the-loop simulation platforms for large and small space programs. These high-fidelity test platforms provide a hardware/software facsimile of space vehicle component interfaces to flight processors for flight software and mission development and qualification. The candidate will be part of a small design team supporting various programs such as National Security Space systems, NASA space science missions, and communication satellites.

This position will sit in Dulles, VA and requires the ability to obtain and maintain a TS/SCI clearance. This position will work a 9/80 schedule, with every other Friday off. This position is 100% onsite and cannot accommodate telecommute work.

Job responsibilities include, but are not limited to, the following: Establish simulation requirements for hardware in the loop platforms. Select off-the-shelf or design interface hardware to simulate space vehicle components (actuators, sensors, and payloads). Develop simulation software models and software interfaces to simulation hardware cards, including digital, analog, serial, and SpaceWire.

Define simulation testbed harnessing based on the space vehicle flight harness and simulation requirements. Interface with hardware engineers in the design, build, and test of the simulation platforms. Implement software control of simulation platform test equipment.

Develop and execute simulation certification loop back testing. Work with program engineers to integrate components and flight software with the simulation platform. Use common lab equipment (oscilloscopes, break out boxes, multimeters, interface analyzers) for debug and problem resolution.

Prepare design documentation, analysis, test results and presentation materials for internal and external customers. Work in an innovative environment across diverse assignments and in collaborative team settings across all levels. Other duties as assigned If this job description reads like it was written specifically for you, consider joining our team.

This position is contingent upon the candidate obtaining final clearances and program access(es) within a reasonable period of time as determined by the company. This position can be filled at either a Level 3 or Level 4. Basic Qualifications for Level 3 (Principal): Bachelor's degree in Electrical/Computer Engineering, or another related STEM discipline with a minimum of 5 years of embedded software experience - OR - Master's degree in Electrical/Computer Engineering, or another related STEM discipline with 3 years of embedded software experience - OR PhD degree Electrical/Computer Engineering, or another related STEM discipline with 1 year of embedded software experience.

Must have the ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. Government Top Secret security clearance with Sensitive Compartmented Information (SCI) access.Approval must be obtained within a reasonable timeframe, as determined by the company, to meet business needs.US Citizenship required. Diverse programming experience: C/C++, Python, Windows/Linux scripting Excellent communication skills and ability to work in small teams Understanding of waterfall, spiral and/or Agile software development processes and continuous integration Experience with software revision control tools such as Subversion and Git Ability to clearly document technical and programmatic status to management Basic Qualifications for Level 4 (Sr Principal): Bachelor's degree in Electrical/Computer Engineering, or another related STEM discipline with a minimum of 8 years of embedded software experience - OR - Master's degree in Electrical/Computer Engineering, or another related STEM discipline with 6 years of embedded software experience - OR PhD degree Electrical/Computer Engineering, or another related STEM discipline with 4 years of embedded software experience

Must have the ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. Government Top Secret security clearance with Sensitive Compartmented Information (SCI) access.Approval must be obtained within a reasonable timeframe, as determined by the company, to meet business needs.US Citizenship required. Diverse programming experience: C/C++, Python, Windows/Linux scripting Excellent communication skills and ability to work in small teams Understanding of waterfall, spiral and/or Agile software development processes and continuous integration Experience with software revision control tools such as Subversion and Git Ability to clearly document technical and programmatic status to management Preferred Qualifications: Active/Current TS/SCI System knowledge in one or more of the following domains: Spacecraft Command & Control, Mission Planning, Space Situational Awareness and Visualization Understanding of Jenkins, Jira (Agile, Scrum and Kanban), Bitbucket and related DevSecOps tools Hardware interfacing, integration and test and controls experience Understanding of common embedded system tools, real-time operating systems and avionics integration and test practices Excellent communication, interpersonal skills, and the ability to interface with all levels of employees and management Experience with or awareness of earned value management Experience working closely with and/or leading cross departmental teams Experience with closed loop simulations Advanced proficiency in software development using C/C++, Python, Windows/Linux scripting Experience developing software in a Linux OS environment Experience with National Instruments data acquisition cards and National Instruments proprietary software Experience with Digital, Analog, RS-422 synchronous serial and UART, MIL-STD-1553, SpaceWire electrical interfaces Curious about all the exciting developments with the Northrop Grumman Space Sector

Click the link below: https://www.northropgrumman.com/space Working at Northrop Grumman is more than just a paycheck. We offer a comprehensive Total Rewards and benefits package designed to help you thrive at work and in life. For more information on our Total Rewards package, please visit our Total Rewards site

Northrop Grumman Total Rewards #SpaceEngJobs #SpaceSoftwareJobs #SpaceGNCJobs #NoVASpace Primary Level Salary Range: $114,000.00 - $171,000.00 Secondary Level Salary Range: $142,200.00 - $213,400.00 The above salary range represents a general guideline; however, Northrop Grumman considers a number of factors when determining base salary offers such as the scope and responsibilities of the position and the candidate's experience, education, skills and current market conditions. Depending on the position, employees may be eligible for overtime, shift differential, and a discretionary bonus in addition to base pay. Annual bonuses are designed to reward individual contributions as well as allow employees to share in company results

Employees in Vice President or Director positions may be eligible for Long Term Incentives. In addition, Northrop Grumman provides a variety of benefits including health insurance coverage, life and disability insurance, savings plan, Company paid holidays and paid time off (PTO) for vacation and/or personal business. The application period for the job is estimated to be 20 days from the job posting date.

However, this timeline may be shortened or extended depending on business needs and the availability of qualified candidates. Northrop Grumman is an Equal Opportunity Employer, making decisions without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, or any other protected class. For our complete EEO and pay transparency statement, please visit http://www.northropgrumman.com/EEO

U.S. Citizenship is required for all positions with a government clearance and certain other restricted positions.


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About Northrop Grumman

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work - and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible.

Industry

Space research administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Falls Church, VA, US

Year founded

1939