Embedded Software Engineer – Level 2 (Secret)
The Embedded Software Engineer Level 2 at Confidential Client's Space Sector in Dulles, VA, develops and integrates embedded flight software for national space security programs. This role involves designing, debugging, and testing software modules interfacing with spacecraft hardware and simulation platforms, requiring strong programming skills in C/C++ and Python, and active Secret clearance. The position is full-time, onsite, and supports mission-critical aerospace systems with a focus on innovation and collaboration.
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 Embedded Software Engineer — Level 2 (Secret) to join its space-focused engineering team in Dulles, VA. This role contributes to flight‑software development and avionics integration for national-space security programs. The position is 100% onsite and supports a 9/80 schedule (every other Friday off). U.S. citizenship and an active Secret clearance are required.
What You’ll Do
- Develop embedded software modules for spaceflight systems using C/C++ and Python.
- Implement and integrate device drivers and board support packages (BSPs).
- Work with hardware and systems engineers to define flight‑software requirements and verification plans.
- Integrate embedded software with simulation and hardware‑in‑the‑loop platforms.
- Debug, profile, and optimize for performance, stability, and resource use on embedded Linux/RTOS targets.
- Support testing, integration, and acceptance activities, and help diagnose production or operational issues.
- Perform trade studies using simulations and development boards to inform design choices.
- Produce design documentation, test results, and technical presentations for internal and customer audiences.
- Collaborate across disciplines in a multi‑functional engineering environment.
Basic Qualifications (required)
- Bachelor’s degree in a STEM field (Aerospace, Electrical, Computer, or Software Engineering) plus 2 years of relevant professional experience — OR — Master’s degree.
- Active U.S. Government Secret security clearance, current and within scope, at time of application. (U.S. citizenship required.)
- Strong programming proficiency in C/C++ and experience with Python.
- Demonstrable experience programming and debugging on Linux for embedded systems.
- Familiarity with real‑time operating systems and common embedded development tools.
- Experience with embedded communication protocols and IO (UART, SPI, RS‑422, discrete IO); familiarity with MIL‑STD‑1553 and SpaceWire is a plus.
- Understanding of concurrent vs. parallel processing and affinity/parallel processing concepts.
- Experience developing or configuring BSPs and integrating device drivers.
Preferred Qualifications
- Top Secret / SCI clearance (desired).
- Experience with Yocto or Vulcan build systems.
- Familiarity with flight software frameworks such as Stellar or CFS.
- Domain knowledge in spacecraft command & control, mission planning, space situational awareness, or visualization.
- Hands‑on experience with analog/digital interfaces and avionics electrical interfaces.
Work Location, Schedule & Travel
- Location: Dulles, VA — this role is fully onsite and cannot accommodate telecommute work.
- Schedule: 9/80 schedule (every other Friday off).
- Travel: Up to ~10% as required by program needs.
Compensation & Benefits
- Primary level salary range: $91,800 — $137,600 per year.
- In addition to base pay, candidates may be eligible for overtime, shift differential, discretionary and annual bonuses, long‑term incentives (for certain roles), and a comprehensive benefits package (health insurance, life/disability insurance, retirement savings plan, paid holidays, and PTO).
- Actual offers consider experience, education, skills, and market factors.
Security & Eligibility
- This position is contingent on maintaining/obtaining required clearances and program access(es) within a reasonable timeframe.
- U.S. citizenship and active Secret clearance (at application) are required.
Why Join
- Work on mission‑critical systems in the space domain with a collaborative, diverse engineering team.
- Opportunity to influence flight‑software and avionics that support national security missions.
- Access to training, career growth, and a robust Total Rewards program.
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.
Negotiate a higher salary! Check the salary ranges for this job type in your area.
View My Salary Range