Senior Embedded Software Engineer I, Robotic Controls

ICON is looking for an Senior Embedded Software Engineer to join our Software Products team in Austin, TX. In this hands-on role, you will develop and maintain control software for our production fleet and our space-based robotic systems. You will contribute in all aspects of the software development lifecycle as part of a growing, fast-paced team, with a focus on high-performance systems, including dynamic stabilization and real-time control. This role will be based at our Austin, TX headquarters and will report to ICON's VP, Software Products.RESPONSIBILITIESDesign and develop controls architecture with a combination of hard and soft real-time requirementsDevelop robust communication protocols between supervisory and real-time systemsProgram and debug control logic in a variety of languages (e.g. C/C++, Matlab, TwinCAT)Create modular, object-oriented code that adheres to established coding standards, design patterns, and documentation practicesLead system integration and validation efforts across hardware and softwareDevelop and maintain simulated environments and automated test frameworks to support continuous integration and system verificationSupport electromechanical hardware systems both remotely and on-site, ensuring safe, reliable operationParticipate in architecture decisions for controls and electrical systems, including component selection and standardizationCollaborate with cross-functional teams and customers to ensure alignment across system interfacesParticipate in design & code reviews to maintain consistency and high-quality outputDevelop and implement real-time control algorithms for dynamic stabilization, vibration mitigation, and high-speed feedback controlDesign and optimize sensor fusion and state estimation algorithms using IMUs, LiDAR, and other real-time sensing systemsAct as a subject matter expert on system stabilization in non-linear, high-speed robotic applicationsConduct simulations, system-level testing, and prototype development to enhance stability and real-world responsivenessMINIMUM QUALIFICATIONSBachelor's degree in an engineering-related field.8+ years of experience in controls engineering, robotics, electrical engineering, or a related field.Strong understanding of real-time state estimation / sensor fusion algorithms (e.g., Kalman Filter, Extended Kalman Filter, Particle Filters) for dynamic systems with focus on position estimation from sensors at different sampling frequencies.Expertise in vibration analysis, non-linear dynamics, and stabilization of high-speed systems.Advanced programming skills in C/C++ with a focus on deterministic real-time control.Strong knowledge of linear algebra, stochastic modeling, and numerical methods, with experience implementing these in languages like C/C++.Experience selecting, integrating, and tuning sensors such as IMUs, accelerometers, and gyros for stabilization systems.PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCEAdvanced degree (MS or PhD) in controls engineering, robotics, or related fields.Demonstrated success in shipping control systems designed for high-speed stabilization in dynamic environments.Practical experience with numerical stability analysis and ensuring robust algorithm performance in non-linear systems.Experience with modern compiled languages such as C++, Rust, or other systems-level programming tools.Familiarity with simulation tools and frameworks for system validation (e.g., MATLAB/Simulink).System architecture experience, particularly for embedded real-time systems.ICON is an equal opportunity employer committed to fostering an innovative, inclusive, diverse and discrimination-free work environment. Employment with ICON is based on merit, competence, and qualifications. It is our policy to administer all personnel actions, including recruiting, hiring, training, and promoting employees, without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin or ancestry, age, disability, marital status, veteran status, or any other legally protected classification in accordance with applicable federal and state laws. Consistent with the obligations of these laws, ICON will make reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities.Furthermore, as a federal government contractor, the Company maintains an affirmative action program which furthers its commitment and complies with recordkeeping and reporting requirements under certain federal civil rights laws and regulations, including Executive Order 11246, Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (as amended) and the Vietnam Era Veterans' Readjustment Assistance Act of 1974 (as amended).Headhunters and recruitment agencies may not submit candidates through this application. ICON does not accept unsolicited headhunter and agency submissions for candidates and will not pay fees to any third-party agency without a prior agreement with ICON.As part of our compliance with these obligations, the Company invites you to voluntarily self-identify as set forth below. 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