Okay, let’s calculate this. Steve has a strong skill set in systems engineering, software engineering, and embedded systems. He also has experience with digital signal processing and sensors. Location is Woodbine, Maryland, which is a relatively affordable area. Considering his skills and experience, I would estimate his hourly rate to be around $125. This is lower than what a senior systems engineer with similar skills might charge in a major city like New York or San Francisco, but still competitive for the Mid-Atlantic region. Some similar job postings in the area suggest hourly rates ranging from $100 to $150, so I’m sticking with $125.