Embedded Firmware and Software Engineer – High-Performance Control Systems

Albuquerque, NM | Full-time, Onsite
Embedded Systems | Signal Processing | Real-Time Controls

TS/SCI Clearance required

We’re hiring an embedded firmware engineer to join a tight-knit engineering team working on next-gen control systems for complex optical platforms. Think fast-moving mirrors, gimbals, and sensors that need to hit precision targets in harsh conditions on the ground and in space. This is hands-on, lab-based work where you’ll go from blank screen to tested hardware alongside mechanical, optical, and electrical engineers.

The team is looking for someone who really knows how to work close to the metal. You’ll design and develop the firmware that keeps these platforms stable and responsive, and you’ll be expected to get your code working on real hardware, not just in simulation.

What You’ll Do:

• Build embedded software and firmware for control and signal-processing systems
• Translate system-level goals into software architectures that can actually run in the field
• Develop code for FPGA and processor-based platforms
• Collaborate with hardware and systems teams on real-time controls for motion and optics
• Handle integration, testing, and debugging in the lab
• Create tools to verify performance and document results
• Explore new DSP and control techniques to squeeze out more precision

What You’ll Need:

• Strong background in C, C++, or C# (3+ years experience)
• Solid understanding of real-time systems, firmware design, and hardware interfaces
• Comfortable working in source-controlled, multi-developer environments
• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Physics, or similar

Nice to Have:

• 5+ years in embedded systems using FPGAs and low-level hardware
• Experience with VHDL, MATLAB, or Java in embedded contexts
• Familiarity with signal processing, calibration, and filtering
• Hands-on integration with precision optical or motion-control systems
• Lab debugging chops and the ability to chase down weird bugs
• Leadership or mentoring experience on technical projects
• Existing clearance (TS/SCI ideal) or ability to get one

Why This Team?
This is a high-impact group that’s part of something bigger, but with the feel of a small engineering shop. You’ll get to work on real systems that support some of the most challenging programs out there. If you like the idea of working across optics, controls, and embedded software and actually seeing your code run on hardware, then this one’s worth a closer look.

Location: Albuquerque, NM
Work Setup: Full-time onsite

Darwin Recruitment is acting as an Employment Agency in relation to this vacancy.

Adam Slade