Job#: 3021070 Job Description: Embedded Software Engineer (Onsite - San Diego, CA) Clearance: DoD Secret preferred Location: San Diego, CA (onsite, no telework) Shift: 1st Shift (9/80A schedule) Travel: None Pay Rate starting at : $80/hr Overview This role supports the development of advanced mission‑critical systems for national security and next‑generation defense technologies. The team is focused on delivering innovative, high‑performance embedded software solutions for real‑time systems, cryptographic applications, and software-defined radio (SDR) platforms. The ideal candidate brings strong technical expertise, intellectual curiosity, and the ability to work collaboratively across multidisciplinary engineering teams. Responsibilities Design, develop, integrate, and test embedded software for real‑time systems, with a focus on cryptographic functions and/or software‑defined radio infrastructure. Work within embedded and real-time system development environments and toolchains. Collaborate closely with cross-functional teams including Systems Engineering, Digital Engineering, Hardware, and Integration & Test. Participate in Agile development processes including sprint planning, stand-ups, and code reviews. Analyze system capabilities, diagnose technical issues, and define solutions related to software behavior, performance, input/output handling, and system integration. Basic Qualifications Bachelor's degree in Computer Engineering, Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or another STEM field and 5+ years of related experience - OR - Master's degree with 3+ years of experience - OR - PhD with 1+ year of experience Proficiency in C/C++ Strong understanding of Object-Oriented Programming Experience across the full software development lifecycle, including requirements, design, implementation, integration, and testing Experience integrating low‑level firmware/software into complex real‑time, multi-threaded embedded applications Hands-on experience developing and debugging embedded real‑time systems Familiarity with static analysis and unit testing Experience using Git/Bitbucket/Jira and Agile methodologies Preferred Qualifications Experience with Software Defined Radios (SDR) Experience with avionics operating systems Hands-on work with Xilinx platforms (Zynq, Ultrascale+, VERSAL) Experience with Yocto/Petalinux Understanding of communication protocols: I2C, SPI, UART, PCIe, Ethernet Experience with TCP/IP and common network configurations Experience implementing cryptographic mechanisms via software libraries Experience with Rust Familiarity with Xilinx development tools (Vitis, Vivado) Knowledge of HAIPE, OTNK, and/or IKE standards Familiarity with modern NSA security standards Experience with Linux kernel driver development/modification Understanding of assembly language and bare‑metal device drivers Experience with PowerPC architectures Familiarity with VHDL/Verilog and FPGA workflows Experience with IBM tools (Rhapsody, DOORS, Clearcase) Experience with Green Hills AdaMulti EEO Employer Apex Systems is an equal opportunity employer. We do not discriminate or allow discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, creed, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding, or related medical conditions), age, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, ancestry, citizenship, genetic information, registered domestic partner status, marital status, disability, status as a crime victim, protected veteran status, political affiliation, union membership, or any other characteristic protected by law. Apex will consider qualified applicants with criminal histories in a manner consistent with the requirements of applicable law. If you have visited our website in search of information on employment opportunities or to apply for a position, and you require an accommodation in using our website for a search or application, please contact our Employee Services Department at [email protected] or 844-463-6178 Apex Systems is a world-class IT services company that serves thousands of clients across the globe. When you join Apex, you become part of a team that values innovation, collaboration, and continuous learning. We offer quality career resources, training, certifications, development opportunities, and a comprehensive benefits package. Our commitment to excellence is reflected in many awards, including ClearlyRateds Best of Staffing in Talent Satisfaction in the United States and Great Place to Work in the United Kingdom and Mexico. Apex uses a virtual recruiter as part of the application process. Click here for more details. Apex Benefits Overview: Apex offers a range of supplemental benefits, including medical, dental, vision, life, disability, and other insurance plans that offer an optional layer of financial protection. We offer an ESPP (employee stock purchase program) and a 401K program which allows you to contribute typically within 30 days of starting, with a company match after 12 months of tenure. Apex also offers a HSA (Health Savings Account on the HDHP plan), a SupportLinc Employee Assistance Program (EAP) with up to 8 free counseling sessions, a corporate discount savings program and other discounts. In terms of professional development, Apex hosts an on-demand training program, provides access to certification prep and a library of technical and leadership courses/books/seminars once you have 6+ months of tenure, and certification discounts and other perks to associations that include CompTIA and IIBA. Apex has a dedicated customer service team for our Consultants that can address questions around benefits and other resources, as well as a certified Career Coach. You can access a full list of our benefits, programs, support teams and resources within our 'Welcome Packet' as well, which an Apex team member can provide. Employee Type: Contract Location: San Diego, CA, US Job Type: Engineering and Technicians Date Posted: April 14, 2026 Pay Range: $70 - $110 per hour Similar Jobs Embedded Software Engineer 3 Embedded Systems Engineer Software Engineer 3 Software Engineer Artificial Intelligence Level 3 * Technology and Data - Software Engineer 3 - Contingent