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Senior Embedded Software Engineer Jobs in Washington

Senior Embedded Software Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

$142K - $186K/yr

SDD is seeking a Lead Embedded Software Engineer to support the design, development, and implementation of real-time processing solutions in software for advanced multi-function Radar systems. You ...

Embedded Software Engineer

Savage, MD · On-site

$137K - $180K/yr

Embedded Software Engineer Savage, Maryland 1 Year Must haves 10+ years of experience Embedded ... SR.IT Recruiter Sandra Taylor 571-267-4186

Embedded Software Engineer

Germantown, MD

$133K - $175K/yr

As an Embedded Software Engineer, you will be responsible for product design, development, and support. Your responsibilities will include architecture, design, coding, development, testing ...

Embedded Software Engineer

Germantown, MD · On-site

$133K - $175K/yr

As an Embedded Software Engineer, you will be responsible for product design, development, and support. Your responsibilities will include architecture, design, coding, development, testing ...

Visionist has an exciting new, fully FUNDED opportunity for a Senior Embedded Developer on our ... Visionist's software developers perform reverse engineering and low-level development to identify ...

Embedded Software Engineer

Herndon, VA · On-site

$135K - $177K/yr

An aerospace client is seeking a Full Time Embedded Software Engineer to join the team and will be responsible for implementing electrical components into hardware and firmware needed for our ...

Embedded Software Engineer

Herndon, VA · On-site

$123K - $151K/yr

An aerospace client is seeking a Full Time Embedded Software Engineer to join the team and will be responsible for implementing electrical components into hardware and firmware needed for our ...

Showing results 21-40

Senior Embedded Software Engineer information

See Washington salary details

$85.5K

$164K

$219.2K

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

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average yearly pay for senior embedded software engineer in Washington is $163,970.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $140,400.00 and $184,000.00 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 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 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 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 the most commonly searched types of Embedded Software Engineer jobs in Washington?

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Senior Embedded Software Engineer job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 6% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 8% Contract. Highlights an 82% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $163,970 per year, or $78.8 per hour.

Senior Embedded Software Engineer

STR

Arlington, VA • On-site

$142K - $186K/yr

Full-time

Posted 17 days ago


Job description

The Systems Development Division (SDD) delivers technology advantage into users' hands by delivering capabilities focused on end-customer needs that function in operationally relevant environments and timeframes.  SDD considers the entire lifecycle of the solution, from conceptualization and architecting, through development, to deployment, while leveraging novel technologies to deliver first-of-a-kind systems.  Current efforts include programs for airborne and space RF as well as advanced testing enabled by multi-function, multi-modal capabilities.

SDD is seeking a Lead Embedded Software Engineer to support the design, development, and implementation of real-time processing solutions in software for advanced multi-function Radar systems. You will collaborate with fellow researchers and engineers on multi-disciplinary teams to develop innovative solutions related to exploration and demonstration of Radar and EW/RF convergence.  In this role, you will identify and evaluate technical approaches, design and implement digital signal processing architectures, and have the opportunity to lead teams focused on delivering solutions over the complete signal processing chain for radar applications in various operational environments.    

You will conduct performance analysis through simulations and real-world testing to validate and optimize the products you create.  Additionally, you will support efforts to evaluate current and future capabilities, identify improved applications and techniques, and ultimately recommend solutions.  Since the systems SDD develops are deployed in operationally relevant environments, the products you develop need to meet standards of quality, maintainability, and reuse.  This position will offer the opportunity for technical leadership, design, analysis, development, testing, and fielding of capabilities.

The successful candidate will have demonstrated leadership skills and contributions in areas such as: radar, electronic warfare, digital signal processing, systems engineering, and test & evaluation. This position requires skills in working with multi-disciplinary teams, awareness of relevant technologies, and interest in developing and delivering systems in tight time-frames. Strong interpersonal, communication, and technical skills are required.  Applicants are expected to be self-motivated, detail oriented and have a demonstrated ability to effectively communicate. 

What you will do:

  • Support and/or lead development of innovative radar/EW systems through implementation of digital signal processing (DSP)
  • Architect, design, direct, and implement cutting-edge embedded software in multi-function, deliverable/deployable systems
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams to understand and/or develop system requirements and specifications
  • Research, understand, and lead new embedded software implementations.  Identifying new technical approaches and working with leadership to create/refine technology/product roadmaps
  • Effectively use tools to create, evaluate, and document solutions and clearly communicate the solution to the team, STR management and customers
  • Design and implement signal processing and software solutions
  • Conduct performance analysis through simulations and real-world testing to validate and optimize system performance
  • Prepare documentation, design specifications, test plans, and reports
  • Communicate effectively with internal teams and stakeholders to convey technical concepts and project updates

Who you are:

  • This position requires an Active SECRET security clearance with eligibility to obtain a Top Secret (TS) security clearance, for which U.S. citizenship is needed by the U.S. Government
  • Demonstrated expertise implementing real-time signal processing solutions in C++ (C++17 or later)
  • Demonstrated knowledge of digital signal processing
  • Applicable understanding of and experience with Radar systems and their principles of design, development, requirements verification, test planning, test execution, and data analysis
  • Experience with algorithm implementation in software for real time systems, especially radar and/or remote sensing
  • Experience with Xilinx MPSoC and/or RFSoC platforms
  • Experience in preparing and delivering briefings, familiarity with the execution of technical reviews (SRRs, PDRs, CDRs, TIMS)
  • Capable of working in a team environment and interacting with team members to ensure effective communication and alignment including mentoring of junior engineers
  • Background should include a Bachelor's degree and at least 7 years of applicable experience; Master's degree and at least 5 years of applicable experience; or PhD and at least 2 years of applicable experience. Equivalent experience will be considered

Nice to have:

  • CUDA experience
  • Expertise in radar simulation tools (MATLAB)
  • Active Top Secret clearance
  • Applicable knowledge of target detection
  • Applicable domain experience in one or more of the following areas: Electronic Warfare, Antenna Apertures, Sensor Resource Management, Large-Scale Platform Test Systems, Cyber Physical Systems, Open System Architectures (UCI, OMS, COARPS)

Required Education:

  • Bachelor's, Master's or PhD in Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, Applied Mathematics, Physics, Radar Systems, or related technical field