Software Engineer II (SSD)

Job Summary: Develop and optimize real-time embedded firmware for legacy and network-based perimeter sensors, achieving an increase in processing efficiency and reducing latency. Spearheaded hardware-software co-design initiatives with hardware teams. Refine and enhance existing products by integrating direct feedback from service personnel and customers.

Job Duties: Minimum job duties include the following:

• Architect and implement high-performance real-time embedded software for perimeter sensors, optimizing for low-latency detection and product reliability.

• Modernize and maintain core firmware, including low-level drivers, middleware/IO, and robust communication protocols to ensure long-term system stability.

• Drive cross-functional workmanship by partnering with hardware and systems engineers to align software capabilities with hardware constraints and service requirements.

• Author comprehensive technical documentation, including requirements and design specifications, to ensure architectural clarity and streamlined future development.

• Perform root-cause analysis on hardware-software interfaces, utilizing diagnostic tools to troubleshoot and resolve complex system-level bugs.

• Lead design validation and rigorous testing phases to ensure product integrity and performance prior to mass production

• Other duties as assigned.

Skills/Experience

• Expert-level proficiency in Embedded C and Modern C++ (C++17/20/23) specifically for ARM Cortex-M (M4/M33/M55) architectures. Strong grasp of template metaprogramming and resource-constrained design patterns.

• In-depth experience developing, profiling, and tuning RTOS-based applications (e.g., FreeRTOS). Mastery of multithreading, priority inheritance, and deterministic memory management.

• Hands-on experience with bare-metal peripheral drivers and optimization for ADC/DAC, I2C, SPI, UART, and DMA. Proficiency in hardware-software co-design and using logic analyzers/oscilloscopes for signal integrity verification.

• Advanced knowledge of dual-stack networking (IPv4/IPv6) and industry-standard protocols including MQTT and ONVIF. Experience implementing device discovery, media streaming, and updating frameworks.

• Experience implementing Hardware Root of Trust, Secure Boot, and ARM TrustZone. Proficiency in managing cryptographic primitives (ECC, AES) and integrating TLS 1.3 for secure device-to-server communication.

• Verified critical peripherals, including I2C sensors, SPI flash memory, UART modules, etc., by executing rigorous functional tests and analyzing signal integrity.

• Familiarity with debugging tools and techniques for embedded systems (JTAG, SWD, GDB)

• Experience in embedded real-time software development, debugging, and testing.

• 5+ years of professional experience in embedded software development.

Education: Bachelor of Science/Engineering degree in Computer Science, Computer Systems, or related degree, Master’s degree preferred.

Physical demands: This position requires the ability to perform fine manual tasks, including working with microscopes and small components, with or without reasonable accommodation. The employee must be able to remain in a seated position for extended periods while performing assembly and testing activities, with reasonable accommodation as needed. The role also requires the ability to lift, carry, and maneuver materials weighing up to 25 pounds, with or without reasonable accommodation.

Southwest Microwave offers a competitive benefits package that includes Medical, dental, vision, life insurance, a 401(k) with company match, tuition reimbursement, three weeks of paid time off, and nine paid holidays per year. We also pride ourselves on our commitment to work/life balance!

Applicants must successfully pass a drug test and background screening. This employer participates in E-Verify.

SMI is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Employment with SMI is governed based on merit, competence, and qualifications. It will not be influenced by race, color, religion, gender, national origin/ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability, or any other legally protected status.