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Senior Embedded Systems Engineer Jobs in Washington

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Senior Embedded Software Engineer

Herndon, VA · On-site

$136 - $204/hr

Overview of Opportunity Two Six Technologies is actively seeking a Senior Embedded Software ... We are looking for someone with a background in embedded system programming, security-oriented ...

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Senior Embedded Systems Engineer information

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$70.8K

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

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for senior embedded systems engineer in Washington is $155,476.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $126,300.00 and $185,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a senior embedded systems engineer?

Senior Embedded Systems Engineers are experienced professionals who design, develop, and maintain embedded systems, which are specialized computing systems that perform dedicated functions within larger systems. They work with both hardware and software components, often programming in languages like C or C++, and ensuring seamless integration and performance. These engineers typically lead teams, manage complex projects, and mentor junior engineers, contributing to the development of products ranging from consumer electronics to automotive control systems.

What are some common challenges a senior embedded systems engineer faces when integrating hardware and software components?

Senior Embedded Systems Engineers often encounter challenges related to ensuring seamless communication between hardware and software elements, particularly when dealing with real-time constraints and limited system resources. Debugging and troubleshooting issues at the intersection of hardware and firmware can be complex, requiring a deep understanding of both domains. Additionally, they may need to balance performance optimization with system reliability while collaborating closely with cross-functional teams such as hardware designers, software developers, and quality assurance engineers.

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

To thrive as a Senior Embedded Systems Engineer, you need deep expertise in embedded C/C++ programming, microcontroller architectures, and hardware-software integration, typically backed by a degree in electrical engineering or computer science. Familiarity with real-time operating systems (RTOS), debugging tools like JTAG, and industry certifications such as IEEE or ARM accreditation is often required. Strong problem-solving skills, effective communication, and leadership capabilities help drive project success and mentor junior engineers. These competencies are essential for delivering reliable, high-performance embedded solutions and ensuring seamless cross-functional collaboration.

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

AspectSenior Embedded Systems EngineerEmbedded Software Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's/Master's in Electrical Engineering, Computer Science; experience in embedded systemsBachelor's in Computer Science or related; programming skills in C/C++
Work EnvironmentDesign, develop, and test embedded hardware/software in industrial, automotive, or consumer electronicsDevelop embedded software for devices, often in teams, within tech or manufacturing companies
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in industries like automotive, aerospace, consumer electronicsCommon in consumer electronics, IoT, and industrial automation

The main difference is that Senior Embedded Systems Engineers typically oversee complex projects, integrate hardware and software, and may lead teams, while Embedded Software Engineers focus primarily on developing and coding embedded software components. Both roles require strong technical skills, but the senior role involves more responsibility and system-level understanding.

What are the most commonly searched types of Embedded Systems Engineer jobs in Washington?

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

What are popular job titles related to Senior Embedded Systems Engineer jobs in Washington?

For Senior Embedded Systems Engineer jobs in Washington, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Senior Embedded Systems Engineer jobs in Washington look for?

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Senior Embedded Systems Engineer jobs near you

Senior Embedded Systems Developer

Laurel, MD • On-site

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory
Manufacturing • 5 - 10K employees

9.6

Company rating: 9.6 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

2nd of 74 rated research

Great coworkers

People enjoy working here

Good employer

Learn more about Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratoryexternal

$122K - $161K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 9 days ago

Job description

Description
Do you love working on a motivated team to solve complex problems in innovative ways?
Do you enjoy creating embedded prototypes in a laboratory environment?
Are you passionate about developing mission-critical cyber solutions for our U.S. military service members?
If so, we're looking for someone like you to join our team at APL!
We are seeking a computer or electrical engineer to help solve national security challenges. As a member of our team, you'll contribute to vital solutions for constrained systems from numerous sponsor agencies and departments. Together, we will build capabilities that address sophisticated cyber challenges, assess and integrate real-time systems, perform laboratory and field testing, assist in post-processing data analysis, and communicate findings to sponsors. In our group, we strive to cultivate an environment that promotes professional growth and a balanced life, and value different perspectives on our teams. We are committed to making a real-world impact and solving the operational needs of the US government agencies and military organizations that we serve.
As a Senior Embedded Systems Developer, you will...
  • Serve as a core team member on an array of cybersecurity projects that protect military and space mission systems and deny adversaries.
  • Hone leadership skills by leading small to medium multidisciplinary technical teams or projects, fostering collaboration and innovation.
  • Mentor junior engineers, providing guidance in technical areas and professional development.
  • Use creative problem solving to develop and enhance hardware and software systems.
  • Develop firmware/HDL for embedded cyber solutions.
  • Expand and enhance simulation and emulation environments used in laboratory experimentation.
  • Lead hands-on experimentation, offering recommendations and technical insights.
  • Provide hardware expertise across sponsor projects and internal research initiatives.
  • Integrate system components with test, measurement, and analysis equipment to advance cybersecurity research and development.

Qualifications
You meet our minimum qualifications for the job if you...
  • Possess a Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience in Electrical Engineering or Computer Engineering.
  • Have 6+ years of experience developing and enhancing hardware and software for embedded systems, such as FPGAs, systems-on-a-chip (SoCs), real-time operating systems (RTOS), microcontrollers, and/or weapon systems assemblies, using supported tools and toolchains, such as Vivado Design Suite (incl. Vitis), STM32Cube, or similar.
  • Can develop hardware/software prototypes using VHDL/Verilog, C/C++/Rust, or similar.
  • Are proficient with interfaces such as I2C, USB, SPI, JTAG, other serial communication protocols, or with Internet TCP/IP protocols.
  • Have experience analyzing existing systems or designs for potential vulnerabilities and developing mitigations or exploits.
  • Foster a collaborative environment by sharing knowledge and effectively presenting technical solutions to collaborators and government sponsors.
  • Are willing and able to travel up to 10%.
  • Are able to obtain an Interim Secret level security clearance by your start date and can ultimately obtain a TS/SCI+poly 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 will go above and beyond our minimum requirements if you...
  • Possess an MS or PhD in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or a related field.
  • Have 10+ years of experience developing and enhancing hardware and software for embedded systems.
  • Have experience with automated test and evaluation, including external physical system control, monitoring, and communications.
  • Have experience creating emulated or simulated environments based on actual systems, or developing representative emulated environments.
  • Have knowledge of and experience applying network and system cybersecurity principles.
  • Have experience designing electrical schematics and circuit boards using Altium or similar electronic design automation (EDA) tools.
  • Have experience with embedded Linux workflows or Linux kernel driver development.
  • Have experience with formal verification and testing frameworks for FPGA designs, such as Universal Verification Methodology (UVM).
  • Have experience engineering military platforms and systems, including weapons, aircraft, spacecraft, ground vehicles, ships, submarines, combat systems, C4I, avionics, and navigation systems.
  • Have experience with cryptographic protocols or accelerating cryptographic and other computational operations using hardware.
  • Have experience maturing products from lower to higher Technology Readiness Levels (TRLs).
  • Hold an active security clearance.

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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