Embedded Software Engineer (Firmware)

Hi,

Role: Embedded Software Engineer (Firmware)

Location: Schaumburg, IL (Onsite)

Type: Contract (W2)

Job Description

Responsibilities

• Own the delivery of one or more embedded subsystems within the existing framework and credential reader application, from design through production release.
• Design and implement components, threads, and modules in modern C++ (C++17 and above) using a defined Module/Thread/Component framework.
• Implement ETL-based state machines and lifecycle hooks that meet hard real-time deadlines on Cortex-M4F microcontrollers.
• Develop, extend, and harden Device Abstraction Layer drivers for STM32G474, including SPI, I2C, USB, UART, GPIO, timers, and DMA.
• Extend and enhance the USB stack to support CCID and related functionality for secure credential readers.
• Perform memory, timing, and power optimization, validating against budgets using static analysis, profiling tools, and on-target measurement.
• Implement robust error handling, fault recovery, and safety-tolerant patterns consistent with a no-exceptions, no-heap-after-initialization policy.
• Balance feature delivery with technical risk by making sound architectural decisions within an established framework without rewriting it.
• Produce clean, maintainable code that meets established coding standards from the first day of engagement.
• Collaborate with other embedded and firmware engineers to integrate new features and subsystems smoothly into the broader platform.
• Validate firmware functionality through testing, debugging, and iteration to ensure reliable performance in production environments.
• Contribute to the development of a new generation of secure NFC/RFID reader products by supporting key project milestones as a contracted engineer.

Essential Skills

• Strong proficiency in modern C++ with experience in C++17 or later, and the ability to write high-quality, production-grade embedded code.
• Minimum of 5 years of hands-on firmware development experience focused on driver-level and low-level microcontroller programming (not application-level development).
• Demonstrated experience with real-time operating systems (RTOS), with Zephyr RTOS highly preferred.
• Practical experience developing firmware for microcontrollers, including Cortex-M4F and STM32G474 or similar devices.
• Strong understanding and practical experience with UART, USB, SPI, and I2C interfaces, with foundational to strong knowledge of USB as a core part of the work.
• Experience implementing and maintaining Device Abstraction Layer drivers for peripherals such as SPI, I2C, USB, UART, GPIO, timers, and DMA.
• Ability to implement ETL-based state machines and lifecycle hooks that meet hard real-time constraints.
• Experience with memory, timing, and power optimization in embedded systems, including use of static analysis, profiling, and on-target measurement tools.
• Proficiency in implementing error handling, fault recovery, and safety-tolerant patterns under a no-exceptions, no-heap-after-init policy.
• Good understanding of security concepts and secure firmware design, ideally gained in domains such as secure devices or authentication solutions.
• Bachelor s degree in Engineering or a related discipline.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Experience working with Zephyr RTOS in production environments.
• Familiarity with USB CCID or similar secure credential protocols.
• Experience with Linux-based development environments and toolchains.
• Exposure to enterprise environments where secure, passwordless access solutions are deployed.
• Ability to integrate quickly into existing codebases and frameworks while respecting established architectural boundaries.
• Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to work independently on deliverable-driven projects.