Embedded Firmware & Systems Engineer II

Job DetailsJob Location: FUTEK - Irvine, CA 92618Position Type: Full TimeEducation Level: 4 Year DegreeSalary Range: $140,000.00 - $150,000.00 Salary/yearTravel Percentage: NoneJob Category: EngineeringJob Summary Embedded Firmware & Systems Engineer II is responsible for designing and developing embedded firmware and system-level solutions for robotics and industrial automation applications. This role focuses on integrating embedded platforms with sensors, actuators, and industrial control systems, with a strong emphasis on real-time performance and industrial communication protocols such as EtherCAT, PROFINET, and EtherNet/IP. The engineer will contribute to system architecture, firmware development, and cross-functional integration, while supporting validation, debugging, and continuous improvement of complex embedded systems in a fast-paced R&D environment. Essential Job Functions Design and develop embedded firmware for real-time systems with a focus on system-level integration and industrial communication Architect and implement robust communication interfaces using protocols such as PROFINET, EtherCAT, EtherNet/IP, Modbus (RTU/TCP), and CAN/CANopen Collaborate with cross-functional teams (hardware, software, and test engineers) to define and drive end-to-end system architectures for robotics and automation applications Integrate embedded systems with industrial controllers (PLCs), sensors, actuators, and motion control systems. Optimize firmware components using C/C++, ensuring reliability, scalability, and performance in real-time environments Lead system-level debugging, troubleshooting, and root cause analysis across firmware, communication networks, and hardware interfaces Participate in system design reviews, define interface requirements, and contribute to overall product architecture decisions Develop and execute test plans for system validation, including communication reliability, timing constraints, and interoperability Develop and maintain clear documentation for system architecture, communication interfaces, and firmware design Stay current with emerging technologies in robotics, industrial automation, and embedded systems, and propose innovative solutions Collaborate with the Electrical Engineering team to design, build, and test rapid prototypes that support new product concepts and align with overall development strategies and design inputs Provide regular updates on project progress, technical risks, and design changes to stakeholders and leadership QualificationsCompetencies: Strong expertise in real-time embedded systems and firmware development Deep understanding of industrial communication protocols and distributed systems Ability to think at a system level, integrating hardware, firmware, and networked components Proficiency in C/C++ for embedded applications Experience debugging complex systems involving hardware, firmware, and communication layers Strong problem-solving skills with a focus on root cause analysis and system optimization Effective communicator with the ability to collaborate across multidisciplinary teams Ability to manage multiple projects in a fast-paced R&D environment   Education/Experience:  Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Robotics, or related field 6+ years of experience in embedded systems development with exposure to industrial or robotics applications   Preferred Qualifications: Experience with industrial protocols such as PROFINET, EtherCAT, EtherNet/IP, Modbus, CAN/CANopen Familiarity with PLC systems and industrial automation environments Experience with RTOS (FreeRTOS, Zephyr, etc.) and/or embedded Linux Strong understanding of embedded communication protocols, peripheral interfaces, and device integration, including TCP/IP, UART, SPI, I2C, USB, ADCs, DACs, PWM, timers, and other microcontroller subsystems Hands-on experience with microcontrollers (Microchip, STMicro, NXP, Renesas, etc.) Understanding of motion control systems and sensor integration Familiarity with tools such as logic analyzers, oscilloscopes, and protocol analyzers Knowledge of version control (Git) and modern development workflows   Supervisory Responsibility: This position has no supervisory responsibilities.   Other Duties: Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job.  Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.