Embedded Software Architect
The Embedded Software Architect will be a key member of STR's Sensors Division, focusing on the development of advanced sensor systems that enhance national security capabilities. This role is situated within the Optical & Novel Sensing (ONS) Group, which conducts physics-driven research across multiple domains to deliver mission performance unattainable with traditional sensors. The ONS Group's primary clientele includes the Department of Defense and the Intelligence Community, engaging in projects from concept formulation to validation prototyping.
In this capacity, the Embedded Software Architect will analyze customer use cases and signal processing algorithms to generate clear, actionable system and software requirements for embedded platforms. The role involves evaluating and recommending computational architectures—such as CPU, DSP, FPGA, or hybrid solutions—that best align with mission needs, balancing system complexity, performance, and resource constraints. Responsibilities also include architecting, designing, and implementing embedded software at the middleware or application level, with a focus on resource efficiency and high reliability. The position requires optimizing and porting software to maximize performance on computationally limited System on Chips (SoCs) and proficiently devising functional splits between processors and FPGAs. Collaboration with spacecraft and satellite integrators, as well as internal stakeholders, is essential to translate mission objectives into robust technical specifications. Additionally, the role entails mentoring, conducting code reviews, and providing technical guidance to less-experienced team members.
Candidates should possess a Bachelor's, Master's, or Ph.D. degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field. A minimum of seven years of experience in embedded software development for resource-constrained systems, such as CPU/DSP/FPGA SoCs, is required. Proficiency in C/C++ for embedded systems is essential, with familiarity in MATLAB and Real-Time Operating Systems (RTOS) environments considered advantageous. A strong foundation in signal processing algorithms and their computational/resource implications is necessary. The ideal candidate will have demonstrated the ability to derive system/software architecture from high-level algorithm analysis and mission requirements, experience with partitioning solutions between processors and programmable logic (e.g., FPGA), and a proven track record of effective collaboration with customers and cross-disciplinary teams to translate concepts into specifications and implementations. Strong communication skills and experience mentoring or guiding junior engineers are also important. Experience with DevOps practices and tools to support efficient, reliable software development and deployment workflows, as well as familiarity with Agile software lifecycle methodologies and tools, such as JIRA, Confluence, Gitlab, and static analysis, are beneficial.
The full-time salary range for this position is $174,000 to $225,000, based on external market data. Offers are determined by factors such as the candidate’s experience, education, training, key skills, security clearances, and prevailing market and business conditions. STR is a growing technology company with locations near Boston, MA; Arlington, VA; Dayton, OH; Melbourne, FL; Carlsbad, CA; Atlanta, GA; and Denver, CO. The company specializes in advanced research and development for defense, intelligence, and national security in areas including cyber, next-generation sensors, radar, sonar, communications, electronic warfare, and artificial intelligence.
STR is committed to delivering impactful solutions to the nation's most challenging problems through sustained innovation and the application of technology. As the world becomes increasingly interconnected, STR leads the way with cutting-edge cybersecurity tools, analytics toolsets that drive sensemaking to the user, sensing that exploits the intricacies of physics, and systems that deliver capability to make society safer. The company values its people and strives to leave the world a little better and safer each day, both through its work and interactions with each other.
Joining STR offers the opportunity to work on high-impact projects that directly contribute to national security. The company fosters a culture of determined problem solvers, emphasizing creative problem-solving across multiple technical disciplines and sustained innovation and technical excellence. STR operates on a hybrid work model and places emphasis on professional growth, providing a collaborative environment where employees can apply cutting-edge technology to real-world challenges.