Engineer II, Embedded Systems Design & Integration

Thermo Fisher Scientific•Madison, WI

5d•Onsite

About The Position

We are seeking a motivated Firmware Engineer to join our engineering team. This role focuses on the development, testing, and maintenance of embedded software for cutting-edge analytical instrumentation in the spectroscopy field. The ideal candidate has a solid foundation in embedded systems, enjoys working close to hardware, and is eager to grow technical depth while solving real-world problems.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field with 2–4 years of hands-on experience in embedded software or firmware development OR MS degree with no experience will be considered.
Strong programming skills in C; experience with C++ is a plus.
Experience developing embedded software across the full lifecycle, including design, implementation, testing, integration, and maintenance.
Proficiency working with microcontrollers and embedded systems, including ARM-based processors and/or DSPs.
Strong understanding of low-level embedded concepts (e.g., interrupts, DMA, memory management) and ability to interpret hardware schematics.
Familiarity with real-time operating systems (RTOS) and/or bare-metal embedded systems.
Experience with programmable logic design (e.g., VHDL for FPGAs or CPLDs); experience debugging FPGA-based implementations is a plus.
Knowledge of common communication interfaces such as SPI, I2C, UART, Ethernet, and USB.
Experience with debugging tools such as JTAG debuggers, oscilloscopes, logic analyzers, and protocol analyzers.
Familiarity with version control systems (e.g., Git) and modern development workflows (e.g., CI/CD).
Understanding of low-level system components such as bootloaders, device drivers, and power management is desirable.
Ability to contribute to embedded software architecture and communication protocol design.
Demonstrated ability to collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams, including hardware, systems, and quality engineering.
Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and ability to debug complex system-level issues.
Effective written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to contribute to technical documentation and design reviews.
Ability to manage individual tasks with moderate guidance while contributing to team deliverables.
Willingness to learn new technologies and take on evolving technical challenges.

Nice To Haves

Experience developing firmware for scientific or instrumentation-based systems is preferred.
Exposure to embedded Linux or higher-level system integration is a plus.
Experience developing utilities or applications using C#/.NET is a plus.
Experience with data acquisition, signal processing, or motor control systems is a plus.
Exposure to AI/ML tools used to support embedded systems development (e.g., code generation, debugging, test automation, or data analysis).
Awareness of how AI/ML techniques may be applied to instrument data processing, signal analysis, or system optimization.
Experience working in regulated development environments (e.g., medical devices, automotive, aerospace) is a plus.

Responsibilities

Perform all phases of embedded software development, including design, implementation, testing, integration, and maintenance for scientific instruments
Develop reliable firmware in C for ARM microprocessors and TI DSPs used in FTIR, Raman, and microscopy instruments
Design and implement programmable logic using VHDL for FPGAs and CPLDs
Develop manufacturing and support utilities using C#/.NET
Ensure timely delivery of high-quality products by working closely with project teams, SQA, and cross-functional engineering groups
Participate in design and architecture reviews
Develop and maintain technical documentation, including specifications, test plans, and user documentation