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Senior Embedded Software Engineer Jobs in Virginia

Embedded Software Engineer

Herndon, VA · On-site +1

$70K - $123K/yr

We are looking for a professional Embedded Software Engineer, a team player with solid technical skills to add to our core engineering team. Candidates must have a strong technical background and be ...

Embedded Software Engineer

Herndon, VA · On-site +1

$70K - $123K/yr

Overview We are looking for a professional Embedded Software Engineer, a team player with solid technical skills to add to our core engineering team. Candidates must have a strong technical ...

Embedded Software Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

$151K - $199K/yr

Embedded Software Engineer Apogee Research is at the forefront of a revolution in how the DoD operates: a turn towards compositional systems of systems instead of traditional monolithic architectures.

Embedded Software Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

$151K - $199K/yr

Embedded Software Engineer Apogee Research is at the forefront of a revolution in how the DoD operates: a turn towards compositional systems of systems instead of traditional monolithic architectures.

Embedded Software Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

$151K - $199K/yr

Embedded Software Engineer Apogee Research is at the forefront of a revolution in how the DoD operates: a turn towards compositional systems of systems instead of traditional monolithic architectures.

Lead embedded software design efforts, including authoring and reviewing proposals; and scheduling ... Consult with hardware engineers and other engineering staff to evaluate hardware and software ...

Embedded Software Engineer (AFC Device)

Vienna, VA · On-site

$132K - $173K/yr

Embedded Software Engineer (AFC Device) About the Role STraffic America, headquartered in Vienna, Virginia, is a leading provider of Automatic Fare Collection (AFC) systems for major U.S. transit ...

Showing results 41-60

Senior Embedded Software Engineer information

See Virginia salary details

$74.9K

$143.5K

$191.8K

How much do senior embedded software engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for senior embedded software engineer in Virginia is $143,532.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $122,900.00 and $161,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a senior embedded software engineer?

A Senior Embedded Software Engineer is an experienced professional who designs, develops, tests, and maintains software that runs on embedded systems—specialized computing devices that are not traditional computers, such as automotive control systems, medical devices, or consumer electronics. They often work closely with hardware engineers to ensure software integrates seamlessly with hardware components. Senior engineers typically lead projects, mentor junior staff, and contribute to system architecture and design decisions. Their expertise includes programming languages like C or C++, real-time operating systems, and debugging tools specialized for embedded environments.

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

AspectSenior Embedded Software EngineerEmbedded Software Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's/Master's in Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or related field; experience in embedded systemsBachelor's degree in relevant field; entry-level to mid-level experience
Work EnvironmentDesigning, developing, testing embedded systems for hardware productsDeveloping firmware and software for embedded devices, often under supervision
Employer & Industry UsageTech companies, automotive, aerospace, consumer electronicsSimilar industries, often as part of product development teams

The main difference between a Senior Embedded Software Engineer and an Embedded Software Engineer lies in experience and responsibility. Senior engineers typically have more expertise, lead projects, and mentor junior staff, while embedded software engineers focus on developing and testing embedded code. Both roles require similar technical skills and industry knowledge, but senior roles involve greater leadership and strategic input.

What are some common challenges senior embedded software engineers face when integrating software with new hardware platforms?

Senior Embedded Software Engineers often encounter challenges such as ensuring software compatibility with diverse hardware architectures, optimizing for limited memory or processing power, and debugging hardware-software interactions. These engineers must frequently collaborate with hardware teams to resolve timing issues, manage device drivers, and ensure reliable system performance. Successfully navigating these challenges requires strong problem-solving skills, adaptability, and a deep understanding of both hardware constraints and software design.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a senior embedded software engineer?

To thrive as a Senior Embedded Software Engineer, you need deep expertise in embedded C/C++ programming, real-time operating systems (RTOS), and a strong background in computer engineering or a related field. Familiarity with hardware debugging tools (such as oscilloscopes and logic analyzers), version control systems (like Git), and relevant certifications (e.g., ARM Accredited Engineer) is typically required. Exceptional problem-solving, communication, and project leadership skills help you collaborate effectively and mentor junior engineers. These competencies ensure the creation of robust, efficient, and reliable embedded systems critical for product success.

What are the most commonly searched types of Embedded Software Engineer jobs in Virginia?

The most popular types of Embedded Software Engineer jobs in Virginia are:

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Senior Embedded Software Engineer jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Senior Embedded Software Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Senior Embedded Software Engineer job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 88% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $143,532 per year, or $69 per hour.

Embedded Software Engineer

iDirect GOVERNMENT

Herndon, VA • On-site, Remote

$70K - $123K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 18 days ago


Job description

We are looking for a professional Embedded Software Engineer, a team player with solid technical skills to add to our core engineering team. Candidates must have a strong technical background and be capable of coming up to speed on new technologies quickly. Good communication skills, great problem-solving skills, and the ability to work both individually and collaboratively in a team environment are required. If you enjoy working in a dynamic, fast-paced environment with the smartest team and the very latest technologies, then this is the job for you!

iDirect Government is a leading ground systems provider to the military satellite industry. We offer platforms connecting a variety of satellite constellations with an array of remote terminals. Terminals are installed on aircraft, maritime vessels, and other ground-based military and government assets. These terminals provide internet and voice capabilities to remote and austere locations.

This is a cross-functional engineering position, developing embedded software for our satellite products on a Linux platform.

This position is based in Herndon, VA.


  • Develop the C++ applications that control our next generation of satellite terminals
  • Design, code, test, and integrate software from requirements to production and commercial deployment
  • Assist with the estimation of time and effort required to implement new features
  • Participate in design reviews, peer code reviews, and improve product quality
  • Interface and work with cross-functional teams to successfully implement feature dependencies
  • Integrate and validate new product designs
  • Act as a member of an Agile scrum team

  • 4+ years of experience in software development
  • Understanding of hardware design and architecture
  • Solid programming experience in C/C++ object-oriented design and development
  • Linux or a POSIX O/S environment
  • Familiarity with software configuration management, defect tracking tools, and peer review
  • Strong documentation and writing skills

Additional experience in the following areas is a plus:

  • Embedded development including hardware debug, device drivers, and real-time constraints in a complex multi-processor system
  • Cross-functional (hardware/firmware/software) development and verification
  • Knowledge of satellite communication protocols
  • Satellite communications protocols such as DVB-S2 and TDMA
  • Networking protocols such as TCP/IP, UDP and IPv6
  • 509 Certificate and Crypto key management
  • Shell scripting, Perl, Lua, or Python
  • Docker, Conan, cmake, C++11
  • Knowledge of Jira, Confluence, BitBucket, Git, SharePoint, Jenkins and Artifactory is a plus
  • Working knowledge of GCC, grep/awk/sed command line tools, bash scripting, GDB debugger, systemd suite

Education

  • Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Software, Systems, Mathematics, or related technical field/experience

Clearance

  • Active DoD clearance or ability to obtain a DoD clearance

Travel

  • 0-10%

Pay Range: $70,769 - $123,818

The iDirect Government salary range for this position is intended to provide a general guideline for compensation. Actual compensation may vary based on factors including, but not limited to, the duties and responsibilities of the role, education, experience, knowledge, skills, abilities, internal equity, market data, applicable collective bargaining agreements, and other business or legal considerations. The posted range is not a guarantee of compensation.

iDirect Government is an Equal Opportunity / Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, or protected veteran status.