Senior Embedded Software Engineer

Role: Principal Embedded Systems Engineer

Location: Austin, TX

Industry: IoT / Embedded Systems / Transportation

Salary: $160,000

A growing transportation technology startup is seeking a Principal Embedded Systems Engineer to lead the development of cutting-edge IoT sensor products for the automotive/transport industry. As one of the earliest hires, you'll play a critical role in shaping the engineering team—or continue as a top-tier individual contributor.

What You’ll Do:

Design and implement embedded firmware for next-gen IoT devices in rugged rail environments

Develop advanced low-power strategies for long-life, battery-powered systems

Integrate and optimize wireless protocols (LoRa, BLE) for robust, long-range communication

Design filtering techniques to ensure signal reliability in noisy industrial settings

Collaborate across hardware, software, and product teams to define system architecture and requirements

Set firmware development standards around quality, testing, and documentation

Troubleshoot and optimize system-level performance across hardware-firmware boundaries

Evaluate emerging technologies and shape future product direction

Ideal Profile:

10+ years of hands-on embedded systems/firmware development (IoT or sensor-focused)

Deep expertise in low-power design for remote deployments

Advanced knowledge of LoRa, BLE, and OTA functionality in constrained systems

Familiarity with cellular protocols (CAT-M1, NB-IoT) and the Nordic nRFConnect SDK

Strong experience in RF systems: antenna tuning, mesh networks, and large-scale rollouts

Background in vibration analysis and signal processing for predictive applications

Mastery of C/C++ on embedded platforms (ARM Cortex-M, RTOS/bare-metal); Zephyr RTOS a plus

Proven leadership in complex hardware/firmware projects

Proficient in using debugging tools (oscilloscope, spectrum analyzer, JTAG)

Strong communicator, able to bridge technical and non-technical stakeholders

Compensation and Benefits:

Competitive base salary around $160,000 annually.

Full benefits package: medical, dental, vision, and life insurance.

401(k) with employer match.

Generous PTO, paid holidays, and family leave.

Opportunities for growth through continued education, tuition reimbursement, and certifications.