Senior Firmware Engineer, Embedded Platform
$132,000–$178,000 year
On-siteSan Diego, California, United States
Job Summary
Develop and optimize low-level embedded software in C++ for avionics systems, mission payloads, and flight controllers, focusing on performance, reliability, and safety. Port frameworks and applications to new RTOSes and hardware platforms, creating Board Support Packages and configuring cross-compilation toolchains. Create peripheral drivers for interfaces like I2C, SPI, UART, and wireless protocols while collaborating with hardware teams to validate secure boot and fault-tolerant designs. Conduct unit and integration testing, including fault injection and MISRA C compliance checks, and diagnose cross-domain issues across electromechanical, software, networking, and RF subsystems. Translate mission requirements into technical specifications and design, execute, and document test plans and troubleshooting manuals.
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in Aerospace, Electrical, Systems, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field
- At least 5 years of experience in embedded systems development
- U.S. Citizenship required due to ITAR regulations & the ability to obtain and maintain a Department of Defense (DoD) security clearance
- Strong networking knowledge, including configuration and troubleshooting of Ethernet, TCP/IP, VPNs, and wireless systems
- Proficient with Linux (Ubuntu, CentOS, RedHat) and Windows systems, with strong command-line skills
- Extensive Programming and scripting experience in Python, Bash, Shell, and C/C++, including embedded software development
- Demonstrated ability to troubleshoot across embedded software, avionics hardware, and RF communications
- Understanding of virtualization and container tools such as VMware, Docker, or Kubernetes
- Awareness of cybersecurity principles as they apply to embedded systems and tactical networks
- Strong technical writing skills for documenting systems, procedures, and troubleshooting steps
- Valid driver's license with a clean driving record to support offsite deployments
- Willingness to travel up to 15% domestically within a calendar year in support of field operations, integration events, customer support and testing
- Ability to sit, stand, bend, reach, climb, and move about regularly throughout the day
- Must have manual dexterity to operate standard office equipment
- Must be physically capable of tolerating loud noise, heat, cold, dust, or chemicals (with PPE)
Desired Qualifications
- 7+ years of experience in embedded systems development
- Experience in high-tech, aerospace or DoD-related manufacturing environments, including prior work in the military or with spacecraft, or aircraft
- Proven track record delivering sUAS or UAS platforms from development through fielding in defense or commercial domains
- Expertise in writing and managing system-level test plans, verification protocols, and requirements traceability
- Familiarity with MISRA C++, DO-178C, IEC 62304, ISO 26262 or similar industry standards
- Proficiency with PX4 Autopilot, including configuration, parameter tuning, and diagnostics
- Working knowledge of ROS or equivalent robotics middleware for autonomous systems
- Experience using simulation tools such as Gazebo, Unreal Engine, or Unity for mission modeling
- Understanding of cybersecurity risks related to unmanned systems, RF networks, and embedded avionics
- Knowledge of FAA regulatory frameworks and airworthiness certification processes for UAS platforms
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