Software Controls Engineer

JOB TITLE: Software Controls EngineerLOCATION: Hawthorne, NY (on-site)TYPE: Full time, regularCOMPENSATION: $120,000 - $160,000/yrClarapath is a medical robotics company based in Westchester County, NY, dedicated to transforming and modernizing laboratory workflows. Our mission is to improve patient care by increasing efficiency, reducing costs, and enhancing the quality and consistency of laboratory processes.Our portfolio includes SectionStar™ and TrimStar Pro™, innovative electro-mechanical systems designed to automate and elevate critical steps in the histology workflow. SectionStar™ delivers high-quality, consistent tissue sections, while TrimStar Pro™ streamlines and standardizes the trimming process - together enabling laboratories to operate with greater precision, throughput, and reliability.At Clarapath, we bring together experts across engineering, data science, robotics, healthcare innovation, and laboratory operations. Our R&D team drives innovation, product enhancements, and a strong pipeline of new solutions, while our manufacturing team oversees production and quality control at our ISO-certified facility. Also based in our New York headquarters are our sales, marketing, administrative, and service teams, who work closely together to ensure every customer receives a seamless, personalized experience at every touchpoint.Role Summary:The Software Controls Engineer will play a key role in the design, development, implementation, and continuous improvement of the control systems and embedded software that power Clarapath's advanced SectionStar™ and TrimStar Pro™ platforms. This individual will contribute to all phases of the product development lifecycle, from system architecture and algorithm development through implementation, testing, verification, manufacturing support, and field deployment. Working closely with mechanical, electrical, software, manufacturing, quality, and customer-facing teams, the Software Controls Engineer will develop reliable, scalable, and maintainable control software that meets performance, safety, and regulatory requirements. We are seeking a hands-on engineer who enjoys solving complex automation and motion control challenges, thrives in a collaborative and fast-paced environment, and is passionate about developing innovative medical device and robotics technologies that improve laboratory workflows and patient outcomes.Responsibilities: Design, develop, implement, and maintain embedded software and control algorithms for motion control systems, actuators, sensors, and peripheral devicesDevelop software architecture and control logic using C/C++, Python, and other appropriate programming languagesDesign and optimize closed-loop control systems for precision motion applications utilizing servo motors, stepper motors, encoders, and other electromechanical componentsCollaborate with Electrical and Mechanical Engineering teams to integrate hardware and software into complete system solutions. Develop communication interfaces using protocols such as CAN, RS-232, RS-485, Ethernet, USB, SPI, I2C, and UART. Create software requirements, design specifications, verification protocols, and technical documentation in compliance with medical device design controlsParticipate in system architecture discussions and technical design reviewsPerform software debugging, root cause analysis, and issue resolution throughout development and post-release supportDevelop automated testing tools and software validation procedures to improve product quality and reliabilitySupport prototype development, system integration, and engineering verification testingAssist Manufacturing and Service teams with software releases, troubleshooting, and continuous product improvements. Participate in risk management activities including software hazard analysis, FMEA, and mitigation implementationSupport regulatory submissions and compliance efforts by generating appropriate documentation and maintaining design history files. Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives focused on software quality, maintainability, cybersecurity, and system performance. Provide technical support during customer installations, field investigations, and product issue resolution as neededQualifications: Bachelor's degree in Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, Software Engineering, or a related engineering discipline3–7 years of experience developing embedded software or control systems for electromechanical productsStrong programming experience in C/C++Experience with embedded Linux or real-time operating systems (RTOS)Experience developing motion control software for precision electromechanical systems Strong understanding of software architecture, object-oriented programming, and software design principlesExperience interfacing with sensors, motors, actuators, and industrial communication protocolsFamiliarity with source control systems such as GitExperience using debugging tools including oscilloscopes, logic analyzers, and protocol analyzers. Strong analytical, troubleshooting, and problem-solving skillsExcellent written and verbal communication skillsAbility to work effectively in a collaborative, multidisciplinary engineering environmentExperience developing software for medical devices or other regulated industries, a plusKnowledge of IEC 62304 software lifecycle processes, a plusFamiliarity with ISO 13485 quality management systems, a plusExperience with FDA Design Controls and Design History Files (DHF), a plusExperience developing software for robotics, automation, or precision instrumentation, a plusKnowledge of machine vision integration, image processing, or computer vision, a plusExperience with Python scripting for automation and test development, a plusFamiliarity with cybersecurity best practices for connected medical devices, a plusExperience with Agile software development methodologies, a plusKnowledge of Jira, Confluence, and requirements management tools, a plusExperience with hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) testing or simulation environments, a plusCompany Offers:Competitive salary, commensurate with experience and educationComprehensive benefits package available: (healthcare, vision, dental and life insurances; 401k; PTO and holidays)A collaborative and diverse work environment where our teams thrive on solving complex challengesAbility to file IP with the companyConnections with world class researchers and their laboratoriesCollaboration with strategic leaders in healthcare and pharmaceutical worldA mission driven organization where every team member will be responsible for changing the standards of delivering healthcareClarapath is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status. In addition to federal law requirements, Clarapath complies with applicable state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.