Associate Embedded Software Engineer (DRT)
The Associate Embedded Software Engineer at Confidential Client develops embedded software for advanced radio communication systems, integrating hardware and software to enable reliable, real-time communications in critical defense environments. This role involves collaborating within cross-functional teams using modern development practices such as Agile and Test Driven Development, contributing to products that directly impact mission success. The position offers a hybrid work environment in Germantown, MD, supporting innovation in defense technology.
About Careertakes
👉 Important disclosure: Careertakes is a third-party recruiting platform supporting this hiring process. If selected, you will be employed directly by our client, Defense and Space Manufacturing.
Applicants for this role may also receive access to additional matched opportunities through the Careertakes platform.
Position Overview
Confidential Client is hiring an Associate Embedded Software Engineer (DRT) to join a product development team in Germantown, MD. You’ll write firmware and embedded software that turns advanced radio hardware into reliable, networked communication systems used in mission‑critical environments. This is a full-time, onsite/hybrid role that requires U.S. citizenship and the ability to pass government security screening.
What You’ll Do
- Develop embedded software (C/C++, Python) for ARM/Linux and bare‑metal microcontroller platforms.
- Implement, test, and integrate firmware that enables real‑time, high‑performance networking and communications.
- Work in cross‑functional teams to take features from design through verification and manufacturing.
- Apply structured development processes: unit testing, peer code reviews, configuration management, and defect tracking.
- Contribute to Agile team ceremonies and continuous improvement of development practices.
- Integrate emerging AI components where applicable to improve system capabilities.
Required Qualifications
- U.S. Citizenship required (candidates may be subject to government security investigation and must meet eligibility for access to classified information).
- Bachelor’s (BSEE/BSCE/BSCS) or Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, or related field.
- Practical software development experience in C and C++ (firmware/embedded).
- Experience with Linux on ARM processors and bare‑metal microcontroller development.
- Familiarity with Python for automation, tooling, or system integration.
- Experience designing or optimizing networked, real‑time software for reliable communications.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills; ability to collaborate across disciplines.
- Comfortable working independently in a fast‑paced, multidisciplinary environment.
Preferred / Nice‑to‑Have
- Experience with Test Driven Development, unit testing frameworks, and CI processes.
- Knowledge of integration of AI/ML components into embedded systems.
- Previous experience in defense, aerospace, or other safety/mission‑critical domains.
- Familiarity with Agile software development practices.
Compensation & Benefits
- Annual pay range: $81,181.80 - $103,732.00 USD (good‑faith estimate; final offer depends on experience, role, and location).
- Target incentive compensation plan (ICP): 5%.
- Competitive medical insurance for employees and eligible family members.
- Generous 401(k) program — up to 7% company contribution with immediate vesting.
- Tuition reimbursement, paid wellness, vacation and holiday leave.
- Paid maternity, paternity, and parental leave.
- 9/80 work schedule (every other Friday off) and hybrid working environment where applicable.
Work Location & Clearance
- Primary location: Germantown, MD (onsite/hybrid).
- U.S. Citizenship required for government security screening and access to classified information.
Why You’ll Like Working Here
- Build software that’s deployed in real-world systems where performance and reliability matter.
- See designs progress from code to hardware and into manufacturing.
- Join a collaborative team with structured processes and opportunities to grow technical skills.
Keywords / Skills (search‑optimized)
- Embedded C, C++
- ARM Linux, bare‑metal microcontrollers
- Python automation and tooling
- Real‑time networking, distributed systems
- Test Driven Development, Agile
- Security clearance / U.S. Citizenship
Equal Opportunity & Hiring Transparency
Careertakes and our client are Equal Opportunity Employers committed to building a diverse and inclusive workforce. We prohibit discrimination or harassment of any kind. To support a fair and efficient hiring process, AI tools may be used to assist with application review or resume screening. These tools do not replace human decision-making. Final hiring decisions are made by people.
If you have questions about how your data is used, please contact us directly.
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