Senior Embedded Software Engineer
Liquid Robotics is seeking a Senior Embedded / Robotics Software Engineer to develop mission-critical software for autonomous maritime robotic systems. This hybrid role is based in the Potomac Region and reports to our Software Manager. Our platforms operate in challenging ocean environments for extended deployments (3+ month missions), requiring exceptionally reliable and fault tolerant software.
Essential Responsibilities- Derive requirements for, design, develop, and maintain reliable embedded software for long-duration autonomous maritime operations (90+ day uptime requirements).
- Integrate COTS and custom robotic components including servos and actuators, power management systems (batteries, solar charging), satellite radios and maritime communication equipment, and environmental and navigation sensors (GPS, IMU, depth sensors, cameras, acoustic sensors, etc.).
- Implement fault-tolerant architectures with watchdog systems, automated recovery, and graceful degradation to meet mission uptime and reliability goals.
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams including systems, mechanical, electrical, quality assurance, production, and product management to ensure integrated system performance.
- Work within a structured software development lifecycle combining Agile methodologies with V-model validation processes; participate in requirements, design, code reviews, and system integration testing.
- Develop and maintain device drivers, middleware, and mission code for ARM-based embedded Linux platforms (e.g., NVIDIA Tegra/Jetson, Raspberry Pi) in Debian-based environments.
- Design for real-time constraints, deterministic behavior on Linux, and power-aware sleep/wake strategies to maximize mission duration.
- Create and execute Software-In-Loop, Hardware-In-Loop, and on-device test methods; develop CI/CD pipelines, automated tests, and release artifacts to support multiple overlapping product lines.
- Troubleshoot and root-cause hardware/software interactions; capture diagnostic data and coordinate corrective actions across engineering disciplines.
- Produce and maintain clear technical documentation including design notes, runbooks, test plans, and procedures.
Key Attributes- Deep systems thinker who can analyze, explain, and close the loop from sensors through actuators and human-in-the-loop components.
- Detail-oriented and methodical with strong software engineering and test discipline.
- Practical hands-on experience integrating and troubleshooting embedded hardware and sensors in harsh environments.
- Strong communicator, able to convey complex software and system behaviors to engineering, Manufacturing, and QA.
- Comfortable working cross-functionally and responding to integration, production, and field deployment priorities.
- Autonomous, pragmatic, and focused on delivering robust, maintainable solutions for safety- and mission-critical systems.
Minimum Qualifications- BS in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, or related discipline; advanced degree or technical credentials a plus.
- 10+ years of professional embedded software architecture, design, and development experience.
- Proven experience shipping robotic or autonomous systems with long-duration uptime requirements and fault-tolerant architectures.
- Strong programming and architecture skills in C++ and Java for mission code; Python for tools, scripts, and automation.
- Deep understanding of Linux system architecture, device drivers, and managing deterministic/real-time behavior on Linux.
- Experience with serial protocols (RS-232, RS-485), CAN bus, USB, UDP/TCP networks, and satellite communication systems (Iridium, Starlink).
- Experience with version control (Git), CI/CD pipelines, automated testing, and managing complex build systems across product lines.
- Knowledge of sensor fusion, error correction, and degraded-mode operation strategies.
- Understanding of power management, thermal constraints, and environmentally robust software design.
- Experience with power-aware software design, sleep/wake strategies, and long-duration mission planning.
- Familiarity with Software-In-Loop, Hardware-In-Loop, and on-device testing methodologies.
U.S. Person status required.
Ability to obtain a US Secret Clearance required. Preference given to candidates with active security clearance at time of hire.
Pay is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, market and business considerations, and the role's geographic location
Summary pay range: $142,000 - 253,000
