POSITION SUMMARYThe Software/Firmware Engineer plays a hands-on role in designing and implementing embedded control software for complex laser assemblies and beam-delivery subsystems. This position focuses on ARM-based processing, deterministic control, and low-latency communication to enable real-time power modulation, safety interlocks, and mission reliability in harsh environments. This opening targets a mid-level engineer; junior and senior candidates may also be considered, with level determined by experience and qualifications.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES- Design, implement, and validate embedded firmware for laser, thermal, and beam-control subsystems.
- Develop deterministic state-machine logic governing interlocks, firing sequences, and subsystem coordination.
- Implement and tune digital control loops, including PID and feed-forward control, and validate loop performance using frequency-response (Bode) analysis.
- Create and maintain real-time communication links between embedded controllers and higher-level command software.
- Support board bring-up, hardware-software integration, and debugging using lab instruments (oscilloscopes, logic analyzers, JTAG debuggers).
- Develop unit and integration tests and contribute to version control and continuous-integration practices for firmware.
- Collaborate closely with optical, electrical, and systems engineers to ensure seamless integration across the full directed-energy platform.
- Conduct firmware verification, configuration control, and field testing per MIL-STD requirements.
- Support documentation, cybersecurity, and sustainment of deployed systems.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS- Bachelor's degree in Electrical, Computer, or Software Engineering, or a related discipline.
- 3-7 years of experience developing embedded systems or real-time firmware (junior and senior candidates considered at the appropriate level).
- Proficiency in C/C++ and experience with STM32 or similar ARM Cortex microcontrollers.
- Strong understanding of RTOS concepts, deterministic timing, and hardware-software integration.
- Experience implementing closed-loop control in firmware (PID, feed-forward) and analyzing loop behavior (e.g., Bode/frequency response).
- Experience with embedded communication interfaces (SPI, I2C, UART, CAN, or Ethernet).
- Hands-on embedded debugging and board bring-up experience.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills for cross-disciplinary collaboration.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS- Active DoD security clearance.
- Experience with laser power supply control, photonics instrumentation, or directed-energy systems.
- Knowledge of MIL-STD-1553, CAN, or EtherCAT communication.
- Familiarity with real-time Linux, FreeRTOS, or Zephyr.
- Experience with CI/CD for embedded software and hardware-in-the-loop test automation.
- Familiarity with secure-coding practices and DFARS/NIST SP 800-171 cybersecurity requirements.
WORK ENVIRONMENT & PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS- Primarily lab and office environment; occasional use of PPE and laser-safety eyewear required.
