Jobs and Careers
EM

Embedded Software Engineer (Aerospace)

Empirical Systems Aerospace, Inc.
San Luis Obispo, United Statesfull_timeVerifiedPosted 27 Mar 2026
💰 $120,000/yr($90,000/yr$120,000/yr)

About the role

Embedded Software Engineer (Aerospace)

Job Summary:

Empirical Systems Aerospace, Inc. is seeking an experienced Software Engineer to develop flight and mission-critical embedded software on real-time, resource-constrained hardware platforms. The role centers on deterministic, real-time firmware with strict reliability, safety, and verification requirements. Responsibilities include low-level driver development, system integration, and end-to-end ownership across the software development lifecycle, from requirements through validation and release. The position requires effective operation both independently and within cross-functional teams spanning hardware, systems, and test, along with disciplined engineering practices, strong fundamentals in communication protocols, and a genuine interest in the interaction between software and physical systems.

Responsibilities and Duties:

  • Implement firmware in C/C++ for MCU-based control systems
  • Perform board bring-up and hardware–software integration
  • Using JTAG/SWD, oscilloscopes, logic analyzers; correlate w/ physical behavior
  • Support SITL and HITL product validation
  • Collaborate in all phases: Requirements, Design, Build, Test, Delivery
  • Help to create novel solutions to complex technical problems
  • Write high-performance real-time device drivers/applications
  • Assist in the creation of internal tools and pipelines
  • Exploration of new techniques, technologies, and approaches to problems

Required Qualifications and Skills:

  • BS in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, or related field
  • Demonstrated clear communication & writing skills
  • 3+ years of C, C++, and Python experience
  • Experienced with standard build tools (CMake, GCC, Clang, etc.)
  • Familiarity with common buses (SPI, I2C, UART, CAN)
  • Familiarity with version control using Git

Desired Qualifications and Skills:  

  • Knowledge of PX4 and ArduPilot flight stacks
  • Development experience with ARM-based microprocessors
  • RTOS or bare-metal real-time design experience
  • Comfort in a Linux development environment
  • Experience writing testable code and unit tests
  • Python for test automation and data analysis
  • Experience with low-latency video streaming
  • Experience with common computer vision techniques and libraries
  • Develop and incorporate AI / Machine Learning into ESA product line

Comprehensive Benefits & Perks: 

  • Health & Wellness: Choose from three health, dental, and vision plans - including a 100% employer-paid option covering both employees and their families. 

  • Paid Time Off: Enjoy 120 hours of PTO, 80 hours accrued plus an additional 40 hours of holiday break pay in addition to Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day off. 

  • Life Insurance: $25,000 employer-paid life insurance policy, with the option to purchase additional coverage for employees and their families. 

  • Supplemental Coverage: Access optional benefits such as Critical Illness, Hospital Indemnity, Accident Insurance, and Critical Illness with Skin Cancer coverage. 

  • Health Savings Account (HSA): Take advantage of a tax-advantaged HSA to manage medical expenses. 

  • Retirement Savings: 401(k) with a company match to support your financial future. 

  • Paid Holidays: Enjoy 9 paid holidays throughout the year. 

  • Work Environment: A casual dress code, complimentary snacks, and a welcoming company culture. 

  • Ideal Location: Work in an area that offers an outstanding quality of life - a perfect place to live, work, and play! 

Company Overview:

Empirical Systems Aerospace, Inc (ESAero) is a leader in aerospace engineering, product development, and manufacturing, dedicated to delivering high-quality, innovative, and cost-effective solutions to the industry. We specialize in cutting-edge system design, rapid product development, precision manufacturing, comprehensive testing, and technology demonstrations to support the evolving needs of the aerospace community.

Apply for this role

Generate a tailored application kit with a matched cover letter, interview prep, and CV highlights — in under 60 seconds.

Apply Now →Generate Application Kit

Free account required — sign up in 30s

Company

Empirical Systems Aerospace, Inc.

View company profile →