What are the responsibilities and job description for the Senior Embedded Software Engineer (Bare-Metal) position at TAP Engineering?
Senior Embedded Software Engineer (Bare-Metal)
Software | Washington, DC | Full Time
Position: Senior Embedded Software Engineer
Location: Washington, DC
Category: Software Engineering
Schedule: Standard Day Shift, Monday–Friday
Clearance Requirement: Active Secret security clearance (required)
Experience Requirement: Senior-level
Compensation Range: $191,000 – $254,000 (based on experience)
Position Overview
We are seeking a Senior Embedded Software Engineer to support the design and development of low-level embedded software for next-generation hardware platforms in a mission-focused environment. This role focuses on bare-metal development, board bring-up, and infrastructure code supporting advanced ARM-based System-on-Chip (SoC) devices.
The ideal candidate has deep experience with embedded systems, strong low-level programming skills, and a security-focused mindset. This position plays a critical role in building, validating, and securing embedded software that supports complex hardware systems operating in constrained environments.
Key Responsibilities
Design and develop low-level bare-metal infrastructure code that is rigorously tested and validated
Build and maintain the embedded software ecosystem supporting next-generation hardware platforms
Perform board bring-up on embedded ARM-based boards, including bootloaders and drivers
Customize and maintain vendor Board Support Packages (BSPs) for ARM-based SoC platforms
Develop and implement security controls for embedded system devices
Create and maintain automated tests to validate embedded system functionality
Debug complex hardware/software integration issues
Collaborate with hardware, systems, and security engineers throughout the development lifecycle
Required Qualifications
Experience with one or more of the following languages: Rust, C, C , ARMv7/ARMv8 assembly
Hands-on experience developing bare-metal code, infrastructure, and device drivers
Strong understanding of embedded system architecture and low-level software design
Experience performing board bring-up and low-level debugging
Ability to maintain an active Secret security clearance
Preferred Qualifications
Experience developing operating systems or operating system components
Strong focus on secure embedded software development
Experience working with complex System-on-Chip (SoC) platforms
Experience implementing Control Flow Integrity or similar security mechanisms
Familiarity with ISRs, MMUs, timers, health monitoring, and entropy sources
Experience working with standard I/O interfaces such as UART, I2C, SPI, eMMC, and similar
Benefits Overview
TAP Engineering offers a comprehensive and competitive benefits package, including:
Paid Time Off: 15–25 days annually based on tenure, plus 11 paid holidays (never use-or-lose)
Retirement: Up to 15% employer contribution to a 401(k) through match and profit sharing
Medical Coverage: Free medical insurance for employees, with optional buy-up plans for dependents
Dental & Vision: Employer-paid plans with optional enhancements
Insurance Coverage: Employer-paid life insurance, AD&D, short-term disability, and long-term disability
Flexible Spending Accounts: Healthcare and dependent care FSAs
Tuition Reimbursement: Up to $36,000 per year for approved coursework
Additional Benefits: Employee Assistance Program, wellness incentives, discount programs, virtual care, prescription savings, and travel support
Performance-Based Rewards: Merit increases, performance bonuses, and referral bonuses
Clearance Requirement
This position requires an active Secret security clearance. Clearance processing and maintenance will be conducted in accordance with U.S. Government requirements.
Additional Information
By submitting your resume for this position, you acknowledge and agree that TAP Engineering may share your resume and related application materials with its subsidiaries and affiliated companies for consideration for other available positions.
TAP Engineering is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other status protected by law.
Salary : $194,000 - $254,000