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Senior Firmware Engineer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Senior Reverse Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

$134K - $184K/yr

STR is hiring a Senior Reverse Engineer who has a passion for research and analysis of ... Reverse engineering complex software or firmware targets, ranging from typical Windows/Linux ...

Senior Reverse Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

$134K - $184K/yr

Reverse engineering complex software or firmware targets, ranging from typical Windows/Linux binaries to embedded firmware running non-traditional computer architectures and operating systems

Senior Systems Engineer

Hampton, VA · On-site

$94K - $178K/yr

Overview VTG is seeking Senior Systems Engineers to serve as subject matter experts on the AN/SQQ ... These positions lead technical data authoring, software/firmware management, training architecture ...

Senior Systems Engineer

Hampton, VA · On-site

$94K - $178K/yr

Overview VTG is seeking Senior Systems Engineers to serve as subject matter experts on the AN/SQQ ... Manage software and firmware reproduction, version control, and change tracking for approximately ...

Senior Reverse Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

$134K - $184K/yr

STR is hiring a Senior Reverse Engineer who has a passion for research and analysis of ... Reverse engineering complex software or firmware targets, ranging from typical Windows/Linux ...

Senior Electrical Engineer

Sussex, VA · On-site

$102K - $133K/yr

The Senior Electrical Engineer will lead the engineering integration and core engineering teams ... Create, design, and develop test specifications for new systems and firmware/software.

Showing results 21-40

Senior Firmware Engineer information

See Virginia salary details

$80.3K

$139.1K

$195.3K

How much do senior firmware engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for senior firmware engineer in Virginia is $139,123.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $118,500.00 and $156,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a senior firmware engineer do?

A senior firmware engineer designs, develops, and tests low-level software that controls hardware devices. They often work with embedded systems, use programming languages like C or C++, and collaborate with hardware engineers to ensure proper functionality and performance. This role typically requires strong problem-solving skills and experience with debugging tools and real-time operating systems.

How much money does a senior firmware engineer make?

A senior firmware engineer typically earns between $100,000 and $150,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and industry. They often have expertise in embedded systems, C/C++ programming, and hardware integration, which can influence salary levels.

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

To thrive as a Senior Firmware Engineer, you need deep expertise in embedded systems, strong coding skills in C/C++ or similar languages, and a degree in computer engineering, electrical engineering, or a related field. Familiarity with hardware debugging tools, version control systems like Git, and real-time operating systems (RTOS) is typically required, along with relevant certifications such as Certified Embedded Systems Engineer. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication skills set top performers apart. These competencies ensure robust firmware development, seamless hardware-software integration, and successful collaboration within multidisciplinary teams.

What is a senior firmware engineer?

Senior Firmware Engineers are experienced professionals who design, develop, and maintain the low-level software (firmware) that enables hardware devices to function correctly. They typically work with embedded systems, programming microcontrollers or processors using languages like C or C++. In addition to writing and debugging code, they often lead projects, mentor junior engineers, and collaborate closely with hardware and software teams to ensure seamless integration and optimal device performance.

What are the most common challenges faced by senior firmware engineers when collaborating with hardware teams?

Senior Firmware Engineers often work closely with hardware teams to ensure seamless integration of software and hardware components. One common challenge is managing communication gaps due to differing technical languages and priorities between software and hardware disciplines. Additionally, hardware prototypes may evolve rapidly, requiring firmware engineers to adapt code frequently, troubleshoot unexpected behavior, and adjust to shifting specifications. Building strong cross-functional relationships and maintaining clear, frequent communication helps address these challenges and ensures project success.
What are the most commonly searched types of Firmware Engineer jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Firmware Engineer jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Senior Firmware Engineer jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Senior Firmware Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Senior Firmware Engineer job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $139,123 per year, or $66.9 per hour.

Senior Reverse Engineer

STR

Arlington, VA • On-site

$134K - $184K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 24 days ago


Job description

STR is hiring a Senior Reverse Engineer who has a passion for research and analysis of vulnerabilities in cyber physical systems. Work must be performed onsite.
What you'll do:
  • Reverse engineering complex software or firmware targets, ranging from typical Windows/Linux binaries to embedded firmware running non-traditional computer architectures and operating systems
  • Developing and applying automated reverse engineering and binary analysis tools to characterize protocols, interfaces, and functionality of target systems
  • Working in multi-discipline teams to develop innovative offensive cyber solutions to challenging problems from a wide variety of technologies
  • Performing vulnerability weaponization, exploit development, payload development, and exploit mitigation on a variety of challenging targets
  • Documenting, demonstrating, and presenting research
  • Solving real world problems that have an impact on national security

Who you are:
  • This position requires the ability to obtain an Active Top Secret (TS) security clearance, for which U.S. citizenship is needed by the U.S. Government
  • Bachelors Degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Cybersecurity or related field plus a minimum of 5 years relevant experience
    (MS or PhD with equivalent work experience may also be considered)
  • Experience with binary analysis of software/firmware
  • Experience with disassembly tools, such as IDA Pro, Binary Ninja, or Ghidra
  • Proficiency in one or more programming languages: C/C++, Python, etc.
  • Proficiency in one or more Assembly Languages: x86, ARM, etc.
  • General understanding of reverse engineering fundamentals: memory layout, calling conventions, etc.

Nice to haves:
  • Vulnerability research and analysis
  • Knowledge of weaponizing discovered vulnerabilities into exploits
  • Implant or software patch development
  • Familiarity with binary emulation or vulnerability research, including tools such as QEMU or AFL++
  • Experience with DSP architectures, such as Texas Instruments, STMicroelectronics, NXP, or Analog Devices.
  • Knowledge of operating system internals including memory/process/thread management
  • Embedded systems or firmware analysis
  • Experience development custom emulation tools to enable dynamic analysis
  • Disassembler/decompiler module development
  • Experience analyzing and reconstructing code/data flow
  • Automated reverse engineering or software analysis tool development
  • Experience debugging software without source code
  • Knowledge of binary file structures and formats
  • Experience analyzing protocols or message structures
  • Knowledge of anti-reverse engineering techniques
  • Knowledge of intrusion detection and anti-malware systems and techniques

Pay Information
Full-Time Salary Range: $134,000 - $184,000
The salary range listed is based on external market data. Offers are based on factors, such as but not limited to, the candidate's experience, education, training, key skills/critical skills, security clearances, and prevailing market and business conditions.
STR is a growing technology company with locations near Boston, MA, Arlington, VA, near Dayton, OH, Melbourne, FL, and Carlsbad, CA. We specialize in advanced research and development for defense, intelligence, and national security in: cyber; next generation sensors, radar, sonar, communications, and electronic warfare; and artificial intelligence algorithms and analytics to make sense of the complexity that is exploding around us.
STR is committed to creating a collaborative learning environment that supports deep technical understanding and recognizes the contributions and achievements of all team members. Our work is challenging, and we go home at night knowing that we pushed the envelope of technology and made the world safer.
STR is not just any company. Our people, culture, and attitude along with their unique set of skills, experiences, and perspectives put us on a trajectory to change the world. We can't do it alone, though - we need fellow trailblazers. If you are one, join our team and help to keep our society safe! Visit us at www.str.us for more info.
STR is an equal opportunity employer. We are fully dedicated to hiring the most qualified candidate regardless of race, color, religion, sex (including gender identity, sexual orientation and pregnancy), marital status, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, genetic information or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.
If you need a reasonable accommodation for any portion of the employment process, email us at appassist@str.us and provide your contact info.
Pursuant to applicable federal law and regulations, positions at STR require employees to obtain national security clearances and satisfy the requirements for compliance with export control and other applicable laws.