Embedded Linux Software Engineer

Heads Up Technologies • Dallas, TX

7d • Onsite

About The Position

As an Embedded Linux Software Engineer, you will architect, build, and maintain Linux-based board support packages (BSPs) and system images for next-generation business-jet cabin systems (IFE/CMS). You will own the Yocto/OpenEmbedded build infrastructure, develop custom layers and recipes, and bring up Linux on custom ARM/SoC hardware. This role bridges low-level platform software with application teams—ensuring a stable, optimized, and certification-ready Linux foundation for production aircraft.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or equivalent experience.
• 5+ years of embedded Linux development experience.
• Strong hands-on experience with Yocto Project / OpenEmbedded: custom layers, recipes, bbappends, machine configurations, and distro features.
• Proficiency in C and shell scripting; familiarity with Python for Yocto/BitBake development.
• Experience with Linux kernel internals: device drivers, device tree, kernel configuration, and cross-compilation.
• Familiarity with ARM architecture, boot loaders (U-Boot), and hardware bring-up workflows.
• Understanding of low-level peripheral interfaces (I²C, SPI, UART, GPIO) and networking stacks (TCP/UDP, multicast).
• Ability to read schematics and datasheets to support hardware integration.
• Strong debugging skills: kernel logs, ftrace, perf, GDB, and hardware debug tools.
• Clear communicator who takes ownership, flags risks early, and delivers on commitments.

Nice To Haves

• Experience with PetaLinux or Xilinx-based SoC platforms (Zynq/ZynqMP).
• Familiarity with video/audio subsystems: V4L2, ALSA/PulseAudio, GStreamer, DRM/KMS, or AVover-IP protocols.
• Exposure to real-time Linux (PREEMPT_RT) or heterogeneous AMP configurations (Linux + RTOS/bare-metal).
• Familiarity with containerized or OTA update strategies for embedded Linux (SWUpdate, RAUC,Mender).
• Background in aviation, automotive, or other safety-critical/regulated environments; DO-178C experience a plus.
• Contributions to open-source projects or upstream kernel/Yocto communities.

Responsibilities

• Own and maintain Yocto/OpenEmbedded build systems: create and curate custom layers, recipes, and machine configurations for in-house SoC platforms.
• Develop and upstream Linux kernel drivers, device-tree configurations, and board bring-up code for custom ARM-based hardware.
• Integrate peripherals (I²C, SPI, UART, GPIO, USB, Ethernet) and validate functionality through driver development and system testing.
• Support video and audio distribution pipelines: integrate display interfaces (HDMI, DisplayPort), audio codecs, and media frameworks; debug AV routing, latency, and synchronization across cabin systems.
• Optimize boot time, memory footprint, and real-time performance for resource-constrained embedded targets.
• Collaborate with hardware and FPGA teams during bring-up; debug with oscilloscopes, logic analyzers, JTAG, and kernel tracing tools.
• Build and maintain CI/CD pipelines for automated image builds, regression testing, and release management.
• Contribute to certification-aligned processes (requirements traceability, design documentation, code reviews, unit/integration tests); DO-178C exposure a plus.
• Document BSP architecture, build procedures, and interfaces; mentor team members on Yocto best practices.

Benefits

• A competitive compensation package, including medical, dental, and vision coverage.
• Opportunities to plan for the future with our 401(k) program.
• Paid Time Off - Take the well-deserved time off you need.
• Life Insurance - Enjoy the peace of mind that comes with life insurance coverage.
• Health and wellness benefits including Health Savings Account (HSA) option.
• Opportunities for professional growth and development within the company.
• Positive and inclusive work culture with a laid-back work environment that promotes a healthy work-life balance.
• Flexibility in your schedule to accommodate personal needs.
• Opportunities for overtime to enhance your earning potential.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Number of Employees: 51-100 employees