Embedded Software Engineer– Technical Lead

Overview As Technical Lead for embedded and firmware systems, you guide the architecture and execution of RTOS-based software tightly integrated with custom hardware. You will steer technical direction, drive best practices, and unblock the team across projects. You collaborate with electrical, mechanical, and product teams to ensure real-time performance and reliability. This role combines hands-on engineering with leadership, shaping robust, maintainable firmware for mission-critical systems. Compensation / Benefitshealth insurance401(k) matchpaid time offcomprehensive benefits package ResponsibilitiesLead design, development, and optimization of embedded/firmware systems for robotics/autonomous/maritime platformsStreamline and document software processes to accelerate projects and ensure repeatabilityArchitect and implement firmware tightly integrated with hardware, sensors, and control systemsWrite and review RTOS-based firmware (FreeRTOS, ROS2, Zephyr) including task design and timing analysisReview schematics and PCB layouts to assess firmware impact and early risksDebug complex system issues using bench tools and determine root cause across software, firmware, and hardwareBuild benchtop development setups to enable early firmware development prior to final hardwareEnsure firmware meets real-time, reliability, and mission-critical requirementsLead design reviews, architecture discussions, and roadmap planning focused on system-level feasibilityCommunicate technical concepts, tradeoffs, risks, and status to engineering and non-engineering stakeholdersAnticipate and address bottlenecks spanning firmware, hardware, and system integrationMentor engineers on embedded firmware architecture, debugging techniques, and best practicesDevelop high-quality, maintainable firmware and device driversTest and debug to ensure system functionality, reliability, and safetyPropose and implement solutions to improve robustness and performanceBreak down complex problems into executable plans with scope, risk, and estimatesSupport software configuration management and repeatable development workflows Key requirements7+ years in embedded/firmware development3+ years in a senior or technical lead roleFluency in C and C++ for embedded systems; Python for tooling/testingHands-on RTOS experience (FreeRTOS, ROS2, Zephyr)Experience on embedded targets (STM32, ARM MCU/SoC, x86, PIC32)Experience with I2C, SPI, UART, Ethernet, GPIOFamiliarity with cloud/servers for data offload and analysisExperience debugging networking stacks and board-level issuesExperience with software requirements, specs, design docs, and design reviewsFamiliarity with CI/CD for embedded systemsFamiliarity with ISO 9001 and CMMI is desirableExperience with maritime/robotics/uncrewed/military platforms is highly desirableNavigation, localization, sensor fusion, or autonomy systems a plusAbility to obtain and maintain a security clearanceStrong communication and mentoring abilitiesProven ability to work in hands-on, customer-driven environmentsKnowledge of safety-critical or mission-critical software practicesExperience in government/defense programs and QMS supportcollaboration with cross-functional teamsclear written and verbal communicationmentoring and coachingRTOS (FreeRTOS, ROS2, Zephyr)C/C++ for embeddedPython for tooling/testing