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Senior Embedded Systems Engineer Jobs in Baltimore, MD

Expert-level engineering experience with over 12 years of analyzing embedded systems * Experience researching and developing in an embedded systems world (VxWorks, ELDK, or custom OS) * Experience ...

Embedded S/W Engineer Senior

Severn, MD · On-site

$93K - $164K/yr

As a Embedded S/W Engineer Senior, you will architect and implement embedded software for discrete ... systems. • Proficiency in C/C++ • Proficiency in Linux systems and Real-Time Operating ...

Your experience will be focused on embedded systems with demonstrated, proven experience in any of ARM, PPC, MIPS, or other embedded assembly languages. Position Requirements: • 12 yrs experience ...

Showing results 21-40

Senior Embedded Systems Engineer information

See Baltimore, MD salary details

$62.1K

$136.4K

$190.8K

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

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for senior embedded systems engineer in Baltimore, MD is $136,400.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $110,800.00 and $162,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 are the most commonly searched types of Embedded Systems Engineer jobs in Baltimore, MD? The most popular types of Embedded Systems Engineer jobs in Baltimore, MD are:
What are popular job titles related to Senior Embedded Systems Engineer jobs in Baltimore, MD? For Senior Embedded Systems Engineer jobs in Baltimore, MD, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Senior Embedded Systems Engineer jobs in Baltimore, MD look for? The top searched job categories for Senior Embedded Systems Engineer jobs in Baltimore, MD are:
Infographic showing various Senior Embedded Systems Engineer job openings in Baltimore, MD as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 90% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $136,400 per year, or $65.6 per hour.

Senior Robotics Engineer for Tailored Autonomous Systems Group

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory

Laurel, MD • On-site

$105K - $290K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 16 days ago


Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory rating

9.6

Company rating: 9.6 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

2nd of 73 rated research


Job description

Description
Are you passionate about robotics, autonomous systems, and advanced mission capabilities?
Do you enjoy leading multidisciplinary teams through the development, integration, and transition of complex autonomous systems?
Are you interested in shaping the future of robotics and autonomy for critical national security missions?
The Tailored Autonomous Systems Group (QPJ) is seeking a Senior Robotics & Autonomous Systems Engineer to provide technical leadership for the design, development, integration, testing, and deployment of advanced robotic and autonomous systems. Our team develops low-size, weight, and power (SWaP) robotic platforms and autonomy solutions that operate in challenging and dynamic environments.
As a senior member of the team, you will serve as a technical leader across multiple projects, working closely with sponsors, engineers, and researchers to define system architectures, guide technical execution, and transition advanced capabilities into operational use. You will help shape the strategic direction of QPJ's robotics and autonomy portfolio while contributing directly to the nation's most challenging mission problems.
As a Senior Robotics & Autonomous Systems Engineer, you will...
  • Lead multidisciplinary engineering teams through system architecture, requirements development, integration, test, and transition activities for advanced autonomous systems.
  • Serve as a technical lead, chief engineer, or senior systems engineer on autonomy-focused development efforts.
  • Lead system architecture development, interface definition, requirements allocation, and technical baseline management across hardware, software, sensing, communications, and autonomy subsystems.
  • Conduct and lead technical trade studies, design reviews, risk assessments, and performance analyses to support critical program decisions.
  • Lead verification, validation, and test activities, including simulation, hardware-in-the-loop (HWIL), laboratory integration, and field experimentation.
  • Guide development of autonomy capabilities including perception, planning, navigation, controls, decision-making, and multi-agent coordination.
  • Interface directly with government sponsors, performers, and stakeholders to define technical objectives, communicate progress, and shape future program direction.
  • Mentor junior engineers and researchers in systems engineering, robotics, and autonomy development.
  • Support proposal development, strategic planning, and business development activities that expand group's technical portfolio.

Qualifications
You meet our minimum qualifications for the job if you...
  • Have a Bachelor's degree in Robotics, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Systems Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Computer Science, Computer Engineering, or a related technical field.
  • Have at least 8 years of relevant professional experience developing, integrating, testing, or fielding complex engineering systems.
  • Have experience leading technical teams through system design, development, prototyping, integration, and test activities.
  • Have experience developing and integrating robotic systems, autonomous systems, embedded systems, or other mission-critical technologies.
  • Have experience conducting system-level trade studies, technical risk management, and performance analyses.
  • Have strong technical communication skills and experience presenting technical information to sponsors and senior leadership.
  • Have experience programming in Python, C++, or similar languages.
  • Are able to obtain an interim Top Secret level security clearance by your start date and ultimately obtain a TS/SCI 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'll go above and beyond our minimum requirements if you...
  • Have a Master's degree or Ph.D. in Robotics, Systems Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field.
  • Have experience serving as a Technical Lead, Chief Engineer, Principal Investigator, or Project Manager on advanced technology programs.
  • Have demonstrated experience leading systems engineering activities including requirements development, architecture definition, integration, verification, validation, and transition.
  • Have experience applying Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE) tools and methodologies, including SysML and Digital Engineering practices.
  • Have experience developing autonomous systems, robotic platforms, uncrewed aerial systems (UAS), uncrewed ground vehicles (UGV), maritime systems, or distributed autonomous systems.
  • Have expertise in perception, SLAM, planning, controls, AI/ML, human-machine teaming, or multi-agent autonomy.

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 [email protected].
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
$105,000 Annually
Maximum Rate
$290,000 Annually

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