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Firmware Engineer

Austin, TX

Firmware Engineer

Company Overview:

Allen Control Systems (ACS) is a cutting-edge defense startup founded by two ex-Navy electrical engineers with a proven track record in robotics and software. We are developing a small, autonomous gun turret that employs advanced computer vision and control systems to precisely target and neutralize small drones and loitering munitions. Our innovative approach requires overcoming significant technical challenges, making this an exciting and dynamic environment for experienced engineers.

With an engineering-first culture, ACS values technical excellence and innovation. Backed by our founders' successful exits from two previous ventures acquired for a combined $180M in 2022, we are committed to ensuring that the groundbreaking technologies we develop have a real-world impact.

Position Overview:

We are seeking a highly skilled Firmware Engineer with strong expertise in microcontroller firmware development in C++, schematic design, and electrical simulation. The ideal candidate will play a critical role in developing robust, high-performance electrical systems that integrate seamlessly with our electromechanical components, helping to ensure our products meet rigorous military-grade requirements. You will contribute to developing, optimizing, and implementing embedded software for real-time control of our systems.

What You'll Do:

  • Develop Real-Time Embedded Software: Design and implement embedded software in C++, focusing on real-time responsiveness and efficiency for autonomous defense applications.
  • Design and Develop Electrical Systems: Interpret microcontroller, digital, and analog IC datasheets. Create detailed electrical schematics and define system requirements for autonomous turret systems, including embedded and power circuits.
  • Documentation and Reporting: Develop and maintain detailed documentation of designs, including pseudocode, block diagrams, schematics, simulation results, and test protocols.
  • Test and Debug Embedded Systems: Conduct extensive testing, simulation, and debugging in both lab and field environments. Troubleshoot and optimize electronics and software for various real-world conditions.
  • Performance Optimization: Continuously improve code performance and reduce power consumption to maximize system efficiency on hardware-constrained platforms.

What You'll Need:

  • Experience: 3+ years of experience in electrical and firmware design, including schematic design and embedded software development.
  • Educational Background: Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field.
  • Embedded Circuit Design: Knowledge of microcontroller-based control systems, including power conversion and motor drives.
  • Schematic Design: Proficiency with electrical design tools such as Altium Designer, OrCAD, or Eagle.
  • Testing and Validation: Hands-on experience with testing methodologies, equipment, and validation protocols for designs that meet military standards.
  • Embedded Software: 3+ years of experience developing real-time, safety-critical embedded systems.
  • Languages: Proficiency in C++ for embedded systems and Python for scripting or development tasks.
  • Robotics Systems: Experience deploying real-time control software in robotics or autonomous systems.
  • Systems Integration: Ability to integrate software with sensors, actuators, and control hardware.

You'll Stand Out:

  • Embedded Linux and RTOS Experience: Familiarity with embedded Linux environments, RTOS, and building custom kernels for embedded platforms.
  • Networking & Protocols: Knowledge of networking protocols (e.g., TCP/IP, UDP) and communication protocols used in robotics (e.g., CAN, UART, I2C).
  • High-Performance Systems: Experience optimizing code for low-latency, high-performance embedded applications with strict power and computational constraints.

What We Offer:

  • Competitive salary
  • ACS Equity Package
  • Health, Dental, Vision Insurance
  • Paid Time Off

Allen Control Systems is an Equal Opportunity Employer, providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment. Allen Control Systems prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.

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