Senior Firmware Engineer, Embedded Platform

About the role

Firestorm Labs is seeking an experienced and driven Firmware Engineer who has a specialized focus in embedded platforms. In this role, you will support the development, integration, and deployment of avionics and embedded systems for our next-generation unmanned aerial systems (UAS).

Responsibilities

• Develop and optimize low-level embedded software in C++, advancing firmware on avionics systems, mission payloads, flight controllers, and embedded subsystems with a focus on performance, reliability, and safety
• Port frameworks and applications to new RTOSes and new hardware platforms, including creating Board Support Packages (BSPs), adapting Hardware Abstraction Layers (HALs), and configuring cross-compilation toolchains for architectures such as ARM Cortex-M
• Create and integrate peripheral drivers for interfaces like I2C, SPI, UART, ADC, and wireless protocols
• Collaborate with hardware teams to validate firmware incorporating features like secure boot, watchdogs, and fault-tolerant designs for reliability
• Conduct unit and integration testing, including fault injection and MISRA C compliance checks, to maintain high standards in safety-critical applications
• Diagnose and resolve cross-domain issues across electromechanical, software, networking, and RF subsystems in both lab and operational environments
• Translate mission and operational requirements into technical specifications and integration plans
• Design, execute, and document test plans, integration guides, test reports, and troubleshooting manuals
• Collaborate with internal engineering teams and leverage Firestorm’s manufacturing and simulation capabilities to accelerate deployment cycles

Requirements

• 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, VLANs, 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.
• Awareness of cybersecurity principles as they apply to embedded systems and tactical networks.
• Strong technical writing skills for documenting systems, procedures, and troubleshooting steps.

Preferred 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.

Additional Requirements

• 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.