Senior Firmware Engineer, Embedded Platform

Firestorm•San Diego, CA

8h•Onsite

About The Position

Firestorm Labs is seeking an experienced Firmware Engineer specializing in embedded platforms to support development, integration, and deployment of avionics and embedded systems for next-generation unmanned aerial systems (UAS). The role advances flight-critical firmware and avionics systems to meet performance and reliability standards and enable mission readiness. The engineer works with cross-functional teams to integrate flight-critical systems, resolve complex technical issues across domains, and support internal research and development (IRAD) and field operations. The position is hands-on and detail-oriented in a fast-paced environment where rapid iteration and field validation are core to success. The role is based at Firestorm’s headquarters in San Diego, California, and requires an on-site presence. Work is typically performed in an office and manufacturing environment, with potential exposure to loud noise, heat, cold, dust, or chemicals when using appropriate personal protective equipment. The position involves cross-departmental collaboration as well as independent and team-based work. Domestic travel of up to 15% may be required for field operations, integration events, customer support, and testing. Relocation assistance may be included in an offer where appropriate. The U.S. salary range is $132,000–$178,000. Actual compensation may vary based on experience, education, certifications, specialized skills, location, and business needs. The role requires U.S. citizenship and the ability to obtain and maintain a DoD security clearance; export-control eligibility requirements also apply.

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, and ability to obtain and maintain a Department of Defense security clearance.
Strong networking knowledge, including configuration and troubleshooting of Ethernet, TCP/IP, VPNs, VLANs, and wireless systems.
Proficiency with Linux (Ubuntu, CentOS, or RedHat) and Windows, including strong command-line skills.
Extensive programming and scripting experience in Python, Bash, Shell, and C/C++, including embedded software development.
Demonstrated ability to troubleshoot 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 for field operations, integration events, customer support, and testing.
Ability to sit, stand, bend, reach, climb, and move about regularly throughout the day; manual dexterity to operate standard office equipment; and ability to tolerate loud noise, heat, cold, dust, or chemicals while using PPE.
Must meet applicable U.S. government export-control eligibility requirements.

Nice To Haves

7 or more years of experience in embedded systems development.
Experience in high-tech, aerospace, or DoD-related manufacturing environments, including prior military, spacecraft, or aircraft work.
A 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.
Local to San Diego or open to relocating.

Responsibilities

Develop and optimize low-level embedded software in C++ for 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 hardware platforms, including creating Board Support Packages, adapting Hardware Abstraction Layers, and configuring cross-compilation toolchains for architectures such as ARM Cortex-M.
Create and integrate peripheral drivers for interfaces such as I2C, SPI, UART, ADC, and wireless protocols.
Collaborate with hardware teams to validate firmware features such as secure boot, watchdogs, and fault-tolerant designs.
Conduct unit and integration testing, including fault injection and MISRA C compliance checks.
Diagnose and resolve cross-domain issues involving electromechanical, software, networking, and RF subsystems in laboratory 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 use manufacturing and simulation capabilities to accelerate deployment cycles.
Support field operations, integration events, customer support, and testing as needed.

Benefits

Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision plans.
401(k) Retirement Savings Plan.
Equity grants for new hires.
Unlimited PTO.
Company holidays, including a holiday hiatus in November and December.
Generous parental leave.
Lifestyle Spending Account.
FSA, DCFSA, and HSA.
Hospital indemnity insurance.
Critical illness insurance.
Accident insurance.
Basic life/AD&D and short- and long-term disability insurance, 100% covered by Firestorm, with the option to purchase additional life insurance.
Free 24/7 mental health resources, including therapy.
Free legal and financial support services.
Relocation assistance may be included in the offer package where appropriate.
Opportunities for career growth.