Embedded Systems Engineer (full time or internship)
Embedded systems are the technology you don’t see—but always depend on.
At Dahlgren, embedded systems engineers work at the intersection of hardware and software, developing code that runs inside real-world defense systems where timing, performance, and reliability matter.
This opportunity is open to current students seeking hands-on experience and graduating seniors seeking an entry-level, full-time role. In both cases, you’ll work on systems that must sense, process, and respond in real time—far beyond classroom projects or simulations.
If you want to see your code operate inside real systems, this is where embedded engineering goes beyond theory.
What You’ll Work On
Depending on your background and experience level, you may support:
- Embedded software development for real-time systems
- Hardware–software integration
- Sensor and control system interfaces
- Real-time operating systems (RTOS)
- System timing, performance, and reliability analysis
- Debugging and troubleshooting at the hardware level
- System validation, testing, and documentation
- Collaboration with hardware, systems, and software engineers
Assignments are scaled to your academic level and skills.
Who This Is For
This role may be a great fit if you are:
- A current student interested in embedded or low-level systems
- A graduating senior (May 2026) seeking an entry-level embedded role
- Curious how software interacts directly with hardware
- Interested in systems where performance and reliability matter
Required Qualifications
You may be a good fit if you:
Are pursuing (or recently completed) a degree in:
- Computer Engineering
- Electrical Engineering
- Computer Science
- Embedded Systems
- Systems Engineering or related field
Have coursework or experience in areas such as:
- C/C++ or similar low-level programming
- Microprocessors or microcontrollers
- Digital logic or computer architecture
- Operating systems or real-time systems
Enjoy debugging, problem-solving, and working close to the hardware
Preferred (Not Required)
- Experience with embedded Linux or RTOS
- Familiarity with hardware interfaces (SPI, I2C, UART, GPIO)
- Experience using oscilloscopes, logic analyzers, or debuggers
- Exposure to system testing or validation
- Project, lab, or internship experience involving embedded systems
What You’ll Gain
For current students:
• Hands-on embedded systems experience
• Mentorship from practicing engineers
• Exposure to real hardware and real systems
• Resume-ready technical experience
For graduating seniors:
• Entry-level role in embedded systems engineering
• Structured onboarding and technical development
• Work on mission-critical systems
• Long-term career growth opportunities
About Dahlgren
Dahlgren is a national defense research and engineering center where scientists and engineers design, test, and improve real-world systems—like radar, AI, robotics, and missile defense—that protect people and support national security.
Our work doesn’t stay on paper. It gets built, tested, and used.
If you want your work to matter, this is the place.