Embedded Software Engineer

Riverside Research Institute•Fair Oaks, VA

About The Position

Riverside Research Institute is currently seeking an Embedded Software Engineer to support and execute cutting-edge firmware development in embedded and mobile network security hardware on behalf of the Riverside Research Open Innovation Center (OIC). The OIC executes research and development in several broad areas including the development of secure and resilient systems. The ideal candidate will have experience working in dynamic research and development (R&D) environments, from ideation through execution, and designing and delivering innovative secure networking and cryptographic solutions to national security customers. As a principal technical contributor, the candidate will be responsible for developing new techniques and technology to address complex and open-ended problems. The candidate should have a track record of outside-the-box problem-solving, interdisciplinary collaboration, and ability to brief stakeholders on technical results.

Requirements

Master’s degree or higher in computer engineering, computer science or equivalent
5+ years’ experience developing Linux embedded platforms (firmware and OS-level)
Ability to debug issues across system layers (baseband, application, OS, network)
5+ years of cross-platform development using C/C++ and embedded Linux
Firmware development, analysis, and reverse-engineering
Device bring-up starting with the root filesystem
Experience building software using Make, CMake, or Cargo
Familiarity with debugging tools: tcpdump, strace, dmesg, ip, ss
Strong Linux command-line skills
Understanding of networking fundamentals (IP, routing, TCP/UDP)
Proficiency in C or Rust, with willingness to learn the other
Experience with source control tools such as Git and SVN
Experience in cellular network vulnerability testing and threat mitigation
Understanding of cellular (4G/5G) hardware platforms
Eligibility for a SECRET clearance

Nice To Haves

Eligible for a TS/SCI Clearance
Experience with Python scripting
Experience with embedded Linux (Yocto, Buildroot)
Familiarity with: iptables, NAT, or VPN concepts
Familiarity with Linux device management (udev)
Exposure to USB device/gadget frameworks
Exposure to /dev, sysfs, or procfs interfaces
Experience with ARM-based systems (e.g., Raspberry Pi)
Exposure to Rust in real-world projects
Exposure to performance tuning in low-level or embedded C software

Responsibilities

Developing C code in Linux-based or embedded systems
Collaborating on systems-level projects (e.g. networking, device interfaces, or low-level services)
Algorithm/protocol analysis, architecture review, system engineering, implementation, verification, and delivery.
Duties involve all aspects of Embedded Software development, including documentation, implementation, emulation, integration, and test.