Lead Engineer, Embedded Systems & Hardware

About the Job

The Lead Engineer, Embedded Systems & Hardware will be responsible for end-to-end embedded system architecture and firmware development for a next-generation, real-time audio-capable consumer hardware product. This role includes ownership of low-power microcontroller firmware, audio integration, wireless connectivity, OTA infrastructure, and hardware bring-up. The engineer will collaborate closely with cross-functional teams across software, product, AI/ML, and third-party manufacturing partners.

The ideal candidate brings a track record of shipping resource-constrained, connected, battery-powered devices and is confident working across both firmware and hardware domains.

Responsibilities

• Own firmware architecture and implementation across two hardware platforms
• Integrate and optimize real-time audio processing pipelines and wake mechanisms
• Implement secure OTA update flows with rollback support and telemetry
• Lead hardware bring-up, debugging, and factory test firmware development
• Review schematics, manage power budgets, and advise on component placement and thermal constraints
• Support pre-certification efforts and collaborate with compliance consultants and EMS/ODM vendors
• Contribute to roadmap planning and architectural trade-offs across product development phases

Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience in embedded systems and firmware development
• Hands-on experience with microcontroller platforms (e.g., ESP32, STM32) and/or Linux-class boards (e.g., Raspberry Pi Zero, NXP i.MX)
• Proficiency in C/C++ and real-time programming (RTOS or FreeRTOS)
• Experience with audio input/output integration (I²S, PDM, or similar) and DSP optimization
• Demonstrated experience building OTA systems with rollback, secure boot, and encryption
• Familiarity with wireless communication protocols such as BLE and Wi-Fi
• Prior involvement in power budget planning and battery management for mobile devices
• Competence in schematic/BOM review and debugging tools (oscilloscope, logic analyzer, etc.)

China Manufacturing Coordination (Mandarin Required)

Communicate directly with our Chinese manufacturing partner to:

• Review prototypes, EVT/DVT adjustments, and design-for-manufacturing feedback.
• Resolve electrical, mechanical, or firmware issues.
• Align on testing rigs, production line requirements, and defect resolution.
• Assist in factory coordination for timelines, sample validation, and ongoing iteration.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience designing firmware for audio-interactive or voice-triggered devices
• Familiarity with audio preprocessing libraries (e.g., WebRTC, SpeexDSP, AEC/NS/AGC)
• Exposure to MQTT or other device-cloud messaging protocols
• Understanding of manufacturing testing workflows, including test rig design and firmware flashing
• Participation in regulatory testing or certification processes (FCC, CE, UN38.3)

Other Qualifications

• Strong documentation, communication, and cross-functional collaboration skills
• Comfort operating in fast-paced, early-stage hardware-software environments
• Ability to manage external vendors for manufacturing, PCB, or mechanical design
• Interest in privacy-preserving, edge-first product design principles

Job Type: Contract

Pay: $36.75 - $44.26 per hour

Expected hours: 20 – 40 per week

Work Location: Remote