Embedded Firmware & Systems Engineer II

FUTEK ADVANCED SENSOR TECHNOLOGY INC•Irvine, CA

2d•$140,000 - $150,000•Onsite

About The Position

Embedded Firmware & Systems Engineer II is responsible for designing and developing embedded firmware and system-level solutions for robotics and industrial automation applications. This role focuses on integrating embedded platforms with sensors, actuators, and industrial control systems, with a strong emphasis on real-time performance and industrial communication protocols such as EtherCAT, PROFINET, and EtherNet/IP. The engineer will contribute to system architecture, firmware development, and cross-functional integration, while supporting validation, debugging, and continuous improvement of complex embedded systems in a fast-paced R&D environment.

Requirements

Strong expertise in real-time embedded systems and firmware development
Deep understanding of industrial communication protocols and distributed systems
Ability to think at a system level, integrating hardware, firmware, and networked components
Proficiency in C/C++ for embedded applications
Experience debugging complex systems involving hardware, firmware, and communication layers
Strong problem-solving skills with a focus on root cause analysis and system optimization
Effective communicator with the ability to collaborate across multidisciplinary teams
Ability to manage multiple projects in a fast-paced R&D environment
Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Robotics, or related field
6+ years of experience in embedded systems development with exposure to industrial or robotics applications

Nice To Haves

Experience with industrial protocols such as PROFINET, EtherCAT, EtherNet/IP, Modbus, CAN/CANopen
Familiarity with PLC systems and industrial automation environments
Experience with RTOS (FreeRTOS, Zephyr, etc.) and/or embedded Linux
Strong understanding of embedded communication protocols, peripheral interfaces, and device integration, including TCP/IP, UART, SPI, I2C, USB, ADCs, DACs, PWM, timers, and other microcontroller subsystems
Hands-on experience with microcontrollers (Microchip, STMicro, NXP, Renesas, etc.)
Understanding of motion control systems and sensor integration
Familiarity with tools such as logic analyzers, oscilloscopes, and protocol analyzers
Knowledge of version control (Git) and modern development workflows

Responsibilities

Design and develop embedded firmware for real-time systems with a focus on system-level integration and industrial communication
Architect and implement robust communication interfaces using protocols such as PROFINET, EtherCAT, EtherNet/IP, Modbus (RTU/TCP), and CAN/CANopen
Collaborate with cross-functional teams (hardware, software, and test engineers) to define and drive end-to-end system architectures for robotics and automation applications
Integrate embedded systems with industrial controllers (PLCs), sensors, actuators, and motion control systems.
Optimize firmware components using C/C++, ensuring reliability, scalability, and performance in real-time environments
Lead system-level debugging, troubleshooting, and root cause analysis across firmware, communication networks, and hardware interfaces
Participate in system design reviews, define interface requirements, and contribute to overall product architecture decisions
Develop and execute test plans for system validation, including communication reliability, timing constraints, and interoperability
Develop and maintain clear documentation for system architecture, communication interfaces, and firmware design
Stay current with emerging technologies in robotics, industrial automation, and embedded systems, and propose innovative solutions
Collaborate with the Electrical Engineering team to design, build, and test rapid prototypes that support new product concepts and align with overall development strategies and design inputs
Provide regular updates on project progress, technical risks, and design changes to stakeholders and leadership