Principal Systems Architect - Connected Devices

StarTech.com

14h

About The Position

StarTech.com is expanding its portfolio of smart connectivity solutions and is seeking a Principal Systems Architect – Connected Devices for this newly created role. This position will be instrumental in supporting the design and development of next-generation products. The role reports to the VP, Product Development and is responsible for defining and owning the end-to-end architecture across hardware, firmware, host software, and cloud services. The goal is to ensure the platform is scalable, secure, and differentiated, while driving execution in collaboration with internal teams and external development partners. As the technical authority and system owner, the individual will establish the architectural foundation for a multi-phase connected device ecosystem.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or related discipline.
10+ years of experience in systems architecture, IoT, or embedded platforms.
Proven experience designing or building IoT/device-to-cloud platforms.
Deep expertise in embedded firmware architecture (ARM-based MCUs, RTOS, secure boot, OTA).
Strong hardware knowledge including USB-C, Thunderbolt, USB Power Delivery and display technologies.
Experience managing ODMs and external development partners.
Proficiency in C/C++ and low-level programming.
Strong understanding of cross-platform host software (Windows, macOS, Linux).
Ability to operate as a senior individual contributor with high ownership and autonomy.
Ability to translate complex technical systems into clear documentation and direction.
Familiarity with cloud environments such as AWS, Azure, or GCP (AWS preferred).
Strong understanding of security architecture for connected devices.
Experience leading distributed or offshore development teams.
Experience building multi-tenant cloud platforms and device management systems

Nice To Haves

Exposure to AI-assisted development tools for code review and productivity.

Responsibilities

Define and own the end-to-end system architecture across hardware, firmware, host software, and cloud platforms.
Architect a scalable, multi-tenant device management platform enabling remote updates, monitoring, and analytics.
Lead hardware architecture for USB-C, Thunderbolt (TB4/TB5), USB4, and power delivery systems.
Define firmware architecture including secure boot, remote firmware updates / OTA updates, device monitoring, telemetry, and diagnostics.
Establish and own security architecture across device and cloud ecosystems.
Translate product strategy into technical roadmaps, reference architectures, and scalable solutions.
Direct and manage external development partners (ODMs, firmware vendors, cloud teams).
Conduct architecture and design reviews; act as the final technical decision-maker.
Partner cross-functionally with Product Management, Customer & Partner Success, Marketing and Customer Support teams.
Act as a technical evangelist supporting StarTech.com’s connected device vision internally & externally.