Senior Firmware Engineer, Embedded Platform

Firestorm•San Diego, CA

14d•$132,000 - $176,000•Onsite

About The Position

Firestorm Labs is seeking an experienced and driven Firmware Engineer who has a specialized focus in embedded platforms. In this role, you will support the development, integration, and deployment of avionics and embedded systems for our next-generation unmanned aerial systems (UAS). This position will advance our flight-critical firmware and avionics systems by ensuring they meet key performance and reliability standards, while enabling full mission readiness. You will work closely with cross-functional teams to integrate flight-critical systems, resolve complex technical issues across domains, and support both IRAD and field operations. The ideal candidate is hands-on, detail-oriented and comfortable operating in a fast-paced environment, where rapid iteration and field validation are core to success.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Aerospace, Electrical, Systems, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field.
At least 5 years of experience in embedded systems development.
U.S. Citizenship required due to ITAR regulations & the ability to obtain and maintain a Department of Defense (DoD) security clearance
Strong networking knowledge, including configuration and troubleshooting of Ethernet, TCP/IP, VPNs, VLANs, and wireless systems.
Proficient with Linux (Ubuntu, CentOS, RedHat) and Windows systems, with strong command-line skills.
Extensive Programming and scripting experience in Python, Bash, Shell, and C/C++, including embedded software development.
Demonstrated ability to troubleshoot across embedded software, avionics hardware, and RF communications.
Understanding of virtualization and container tools such as VMware, Docker, or Kubernetes
Awareness of cybersecurity principles as they apply to embedded systems and tactical networks
Strong technical writing skills for documenting systems, procedures, and troubleshooting steps.
Valid driver’s license with a clean driving record to support offsite deployments.
Willingness to travel up to 15% domestically within a calendar year in support of field operations, integration events, customer support and testing.

Nice To Haves

7+ years of experience in embedded systems development.
Experience in high-tech, aerospace or DoD-related manufacturing environments, including prior work in the military or with spacecraft, or aircraft.
Proven track record delivering sUAS or UAS platforms from development through fielding in defense or commercial domains
Expertise in writing and managing system-level test plans, verification protocols, and requirements traceability
Familiarity with MISRA C++, DO-178C, IEC 62304, ISO 26262 or similar industry standards
Proficiency with PX4 Autopilot, including configuration, parameter tuning, and diagnostics
Working knowledge of ROS or equivalent robotics middleware for autonomous systems
Experience using simulation tools such as Gazebo, Unreal Engine, or Unity for mission modeling
Understanding of cybersecurity risks related to unmanned systems, RF networks, and embedded avionics.
Knowledge of FAA regulatory frameworks and airworthiness certification processes for UAS platforms

Responsibilities

Develop and optimize low-level embedded software in C++, advancing firmware on avionics systems, mission payloads, flight controllers, and embedded subsystems with a focus on performance, reliability, and safety
Port frameworks and applications to new RTOSes and new hardware platforms, including creating Board Support Packages (BSPs), adapting Hardware Abstraction Layers (HALs), and configuring cross-compilation toolchains for architectures such as ARM Cortex-M
Create and integrate peripheral drivers for interfaces like I2C, SPI, UART, ADC, and wireless protocols
Collaborate with hardware teams to validate firmware incorporating features like secure boot, watchdogs, and fault-tolerant designs for reliability.
Conduct unit and integration testing, including fault injection and MISRA C compliance checks, to maintain high standards in safety-critical applications.
Diagnose and resolve cross-domain issues across electromechanical, software, networking, and RF subsystems in both lab and operational environments
Develop and maintain embedded software, test automation scripts, and integration tools using Python, C/C++, Bash, and Shell
Translate mission and operational requirements into technical specifications and integration plans
Design, execute, and document test plans, integration guides, test reports, and troubleshooting manuals
Collaborate with internal engineering teams and leverage Firestorm’s manufacturing and simulation capabilities to accelerate deployment cycles

Benefits

We offer comprehensive medical, dental, and visions plans
401(k) Retirement Savings Plan to invest in your long-term retirement goals
Equity grants for new hires
Unlimited PTO
Extremely generous company holiday calendar, including a holiday hiatus in November, & December.
Generous Parental Leave
Lifestyle Spending Account
FSA
DCFSA
HSA
Hospital Indemnity insurance
Critical Illness insurance
Accident insurance
Basic Life/AD&D, short-term and long-term disability insurance, 100% covered by Firestorm. Plus, the option to purchase additional life insurance for you and your family.
Mental Health Resources: We provide free mental health resources 24/7 including therapy and more. Additional work-life services, such as free legal and financial support, are available to you as well.