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Sr Embedded Software Engineer Jobs in Vienna, VA

Overview of Opportunity Two Six Technologies is actively seeking a Senior Embedded Software Engineer to join our Trusted Electronics & Effects team in Herndon, Virginia. We are looking for someone ...

Senior Embedded Software Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

$142K - $186K/yr

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

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 ...

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

Sterling, VA · On-site

$110K - $140K/yr

Senior-level engineers will provide system-level software architecture and technical direction ... Strong embedded software development experience using C/C++. Experience working with real-time ...

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Sr Embedded Software Engineer information

See Vienna, VA salary details

$75.8K

$145.3K

$194.2K

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

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for sr embedded software engineer in Vienna, VA is $145,309.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $124,500.00 and $163,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a Sr Embedded Software Engineer do?

A Sr Embedded Software Engineer designs, develops, tests, and maintains software that runs on embedded systems such as microcontrollers, sensors, and specialized hardware. They work closely with hardware engineers to ensure seamless integration between software and hardware components. Their responsibilities often include writing code in languages like C or C++, debugging and troubleshooting embedded systems, and optimizing software for performance and resource constraints. Senior engineers may also mentor junior team members and contribute to system architecture decisions.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Sr Embedded Software Engineer?

To thrive as a Sr Embedded Software Engineer, you need strong proficiency in C/C++ programming, embedded systems design, and a relevant engineering degree such as Electrical or Computer Engineering. Familiarity with real-time operating systems (RTOS), microcontrollers, debugging tools, and certifications like Certified Embedded Systems Engineer are often expected. Excellent problem-solving, attention to detail, and effective communication skills set top candidates apart. These capabilities are crucial for developing reliable, efficient embedded solutions and collaborating across hardware and software teams.

What are some common challenges faced by Sr Embedded Software Engineers when working on cross-functional teams?

Sr Embedded Software Engineers often collaborate with hardware engineers, systems architects, and QA teams to deliver integrated products. A common challenge is ensuring seamless communication across disciplines, as hardware and software timelines may not always align. Troubleshooting issues that span both hardware and software layers requires strong problem-solving skills and adaptability. Effective documentation and regular cross-team meetings help mitigate misunderstandings and keep projects on track.

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

AspectSr Embedded Software EngineerEmbedded Software Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's/Master's in CS, EE; 5+ years experienceBachelor's in CS, EE; 1-3 years experience
Work EnvironmentDesign, develop, and troubleshoot embedded systems in hardware-focused teamsDevelop embedded software, often under supervision, in similar environments
Employer & Industry UsageTech, automotive, aerospace, consumer electronicsSimilar industries, often entry to mid-level roles

The main difference between a Sr Embedded Software Engineer and an Embedded Software Engineer lies in experience, responsibilities, and expertise. The senior role typically involves leading projects, designing complex systems, and mentoring junior staff, while the embedded software engineer focuses on developing and testing embedded code. Both roles are vital in industries like automotive, aerospace, and consumer electronics, but the senior position requires more experience and a broader skill set.

Are Sr Embedded Software Engineers in demand?

Senior Embedded Software Engineers are in high demand due to the growth of IoT, automotive, medical devices, and industrial automation sectors. They typically require expertise in C/C++, real-time operating systems, and hardware integration, making their skills highly sought after in technology-driven industries.

What cities near Vienna, VA are hiring for Sr Embedded Software Engineer jobs?

Cities near Vienna, VA with the most Sr Embedded Software Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Sr Embedded Software Engineer job openings in Vienna, VA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $145,309 per year, or $69.9 per hour.

Senior Embedded Software Engineer

Leonardo DRS

Germantown, MD • On-site

$107 - $145/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 29 days ago


Leonardo DRS rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 56 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

115th of 545 rated manufacturers


Job description

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Senior Embedded Software Engineer

Location: Germantown, MD, US, 20876

Job ID: 114921

DRS RADA Technologies, a subsidiary of Leonardo DRS, is focused on proprietary radar solutions and legacy avionics systems supporting the defense industry globally. The company is a global pioneer of AESA tactical radars for active military protection, counter-drone applications, critical infrastructure protection, and border surveillance.

Job Summary

DRS RADA Technologies in Germantown, MD, is hiring a Senior Embedded Software Engineer. This position is full time and on-site.

Join our dynamic radar defense company as a Senior Embedded Software Engineer where you'll drive technical vision and architect transformative solutions across our entire product ecosystem. We're seeking a distinguished engineer who can seamlessly bridge the gaps between software, hardware, product strategy, and manufacturing while delivering innovative, secure solutions. In this role, you'll serve as a technical visionary and hands-on architect, collaborating across teams to design and implement mission-critical systems that scale with our rapid growth, all while embracing our collaborative, ego-free culture that values results over hierarchy.

Your deep technical expertise, proven ability to solve multifaceted engineering challenges, and talent for aligning diverse teams will be crucial as we partner with major defense contractors and scale our impact in the industry. This role offers the unique opportunity to shape not just software architecture, but the entire technical direction of a growing defense technology company. Our radar software runs on a real-time operating system; prior experience with our specific platform is not required, and RTOS experience is highly transferable.

Job Responsibilities
  • Be involved with the design, development, analysis, testing, and debugging of computer software applications and/or systems.
  • Be ready to learn about Image and Signal Processing, Real-time, Firmware, Database Design, Operating Systems, and more.
  • Take ownership of the outcome and the journey there: budget, costs, estimated schedules, leadership.
  • Communicate clearly (written and oral) with other company personnel and the customer as required.
  • Be a team player and provide technical knowledge and assistance to other engineers and support personnel and teach others on the team.
  • Be able to work with clients, products, hardware, and other teams.
Qualifications
  • Bachelor’s degree in engineering or related technical field with a minimum of 5 years of experience
  • Fluency in C/C++
  • Experience developing software on a real-time operating system (RTOS), with an understanding of deterministic timing, task scheduling, and priority management.
  • Understanding of concurrent and multithreaded programming, including synchronization and shared-resource management.
  • Experience working close to hardware — device interfaces, memory-mapped I/O, or debugging on target hardware — and the ability to troubleshoot complex problems spanning both software and hardware.
  • Proficiency with software configuration management, code review, and automated testing practices.
  • Ability to ramp quickly on proprietary or specialized tools and environments.
  • Experience with, or willingness to learn, Matlab, Python, and Rust.
  • Ability to lead a technical group independently
  • Open to occasional travel

U.S. Citizenship required. This position requires an active DOD security clearance or the ability to obtain such clearance within a reasonable time after commencement of employment. The salary range for this position is $107,089.00-$144,570.00. This range reflects the good faith estimate of pay the employer is willing to offer at the time of posting. Several factors can influence the pay scale, including but not limited to: Federal contract labor categories and contract wage rates, collective bargaining agreements, geographic location, business considerations, scope, and responsibilities of the position, local or other applicable market conditions, and internal equity. Other factors include the candidate’s qualifications such as prior work experience, specific skills and competencies, education/training, and certifications. In addition to base pay, employees may be eligible for: annual performance-based bonuses, equity awards, and overtime pay (for non-exempt employees as applicable. Our benefits package includes comprehensive health insurance (medical, dental, vision), employer matching 401(k) retirement plan, paid time off including vacation, holidays, and sick leave (including ant state-mandated paid sick leave), parental leave benefits, tuition reimbursement, professional development support, and life and disability insurance coverage.

Taking care of our people is a top priority at Leonardo DRS. We are proud to offer competitive salaries and comprehensive benefits, including medical, dental, and vision coverage, a company contribution to a health savings account, telemedicine, life and disability insurance, legal insurance, and a 401(k) savings plan. We champion wellness programs that focus on physical, emotional, and financial well-being. We develop our talent by offering programs and activities to support career-growth, professional development, and skill enhancement. And we understand there is more to life than work, and the importance of offering flexible work schedules with our 9/80 program, competitive vacation, health/emergency leave, paid parental leave, and community service hours. Some employees are eligible for limited benefits only

Leonardo DRS, Inc. and its subsidiaries provide equal opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibit discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws.

Our Vision. To be the leading mid-tier defense technology company in the U.S.

Our Values. The Leonardo DRS culture is defined by our Core Values and Principles:

  • Integrity
  • Agility
  • Excellence
  • Customer Focus
  • Community & Respect
  • Innovation

We strive to uphold them in all aspects of our business practices to inspire our employees and provide outstanding support for our customers.

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About Leonardo DRS

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Navigational, measuring, electromedical, and control instruments manufacturing and communications equipment manufacturing

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Arlington, VA, US

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