Robotics Engineer - Embedded Software

At TerraFirma, we’re redefining how the world moves earth for construction. Founded by former SpaceX engineers and backed by Bain Capital Ventures, TerraFirma is automating construction to make it faster, cheaper, and safer.Our Story & MissionAt SpaceX, we were part of the teams that built the largest rocket in human history, launched the largest constellation of satellites ever made, and delivered connectivity to millions of people worldwide. What we learned was simple: infrastructure is everything.At Starbase, the biggest barrier to launching missions to Mars was not building the rocket. It was how slow, expensive, and complex it was to build the infrastructure around it. We lacked buildings, roads, water, power, communications, and waste management, and constructing them took far more time and resources than it should have.From a first-principles perspective, that doesn't make sense. It shouldn't be this hard or costly to create the foundations for progress. That’s when we realized something important: the same engineering mindset that enabled us to tackle space exploration and mass manufacturing could be applied to infrastructure. By bringing the principles of simplification, iteration, acceleration, and automation to construction, we can unlock a new era in how the world builds.Accelerating infrastructure unlocks progress across every domain, creating a self-sustaining engine for tackling humanity’s toughest challenges. The innovations we develop on Earth will lay the groundwork for the technologies that one day make settlement on Mars possible.Job OverviewIn this role, you'll take hands-on ownership of the embedded hardware and software for our robots. You'll be responsible for both high-level design of custom hardware and low-level code implementation. Day-to-day work includes developing software for Linux-based systems with real-time constraints and microcontrollers for sensing and control. You'll lead platform bringup for new boards, develop drivers for new chips and sensors, and help shape TerraFirma’s software testing framework and standards.ResponsibilitiesDesign and architect firmware and low-level code for embedded systems and microcontrollersPerform platform bringup for new hardware, including driver implementation, sensor integration, boot chain development, and basic networkingOwn the integration, calibration, and testing of sensors both for proof-of-concept prototypes and production systemsLead interdisciplinary teams, mentor new employees, and actively participate in the hiring processBasic QualificationsB.S. in Computer Engineering, Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or a closely related field2+ years of professional or project experience with software and firmware development for embedded systems and microcontrollersDemonstrated experience owning large scale deliverables, leading teams, and driving product roadmapsPreferred Skills & ExperienceExperience working with safety-critical or real-time systemsExperience working with embedded applications for robotics, autonomous vehicles, aerospace, automotive, or constructionFamiliarity with platform and toolchain development for embedded systemsExperience building testing frameworks or designing CI/CD pipelinesAdditional RequirementsMust be willing to work extended hours or weekends when needed to support critical deadlines or triage urgent deployment issuesComfortable with working in a fast-paced startup environmentMust be willing to relocate to Austin, TX if not within commuting distanceCompensation & BenefitsBase compensation will vary based on factors such as relevant experience and education. Salaries and leveling will be determined on a case-by-case basis if an offer is extended. Our total compensation package also includes equity in TerraFirma. Relocation packages are available to help cover moving costs, if applicable.