Associate Avionics/Embedded Engineer

About the Role

The Associate Avionics/Firmware Engineer supports the development, integration, and testing of embedded software and avionics hardware used in UAS platforms. This role focuses on learning and applying fundamentals of embedded programming, sensor integration, electronics troubleshooting, and flight-critical firmware development. Working under the guidance of senior engineers, the Associate Engineer contributes to firmware development, board bring-up efforts, hardware-in-the-loop testing, and documentation to ensure reliable and safe operation of aircraft systems. This is a hands-on position ideal for engineers who enjoy embedded development, debugging hardware, working with microcontrollers, and supporting system integration activities across electrical, software, and mechanical teams.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and modify embedded firmware for sensors, avionics boards, and microcontroller-based systems under close supervision.
• Assist in hardware bring-up activities, including programming, debugging, and verifying new PCB designs.
• Support integration and testing of avionics components such as power modules, GPS, radios, flight-control interfaces, and onboard computers.
• Help maintain firmware documentation, configuration management, and version control (Git).
• Participate in bench-level testing, HIL testing, and basic flight-support activities.
• Conduct structured troubleshooting using oscilloscopes, logic analyzers, multimeters, and test fixtures.
• Assist in writing test procedures, validating system functionality, and recording results for engineering reviews.
• Collaborate with electrical, GNC, and software teams to ensure seamless integration between firmware and system architecture.

Requirements & Tech Stack

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Science (with embedded focus), or related field.
• 0–2 years of experience in firmware or embedded systems development (internship or academic project experience acceptable).
• Exposure to embedded systems, microcontrollers, or avionics concepts.
• Basic proficiency in C/C++ for microcontroller or embedded development.
• Familiarity with microcontrollers (ARM, STM32, Atmel, ESP32, or similar).
• Understanding of communication protocols such as UART, SPI, I²C, CAN.
• Ability to read schematic diagrams and follow circuit flow.
• Exposure to oscilloscopes, logic analyzers, and general electronics test equipment.
• Experience with version control tools (Git/GitLab/GitHub).
• Strong analytical and troubleshooting abilities.
• High attention to detail and a willingness to learn through mentorship.
• Effective communication skills in a multidisciplinary engineering environment.
• Ability to support multiple tasks and adapt to shifting priorities.
• Collaborative mindset with strong ownership of assigned work.

Preferred Qualifications

• Coursework or certification in embedded systems, digital design, or avionics.
• Experience with UAS, robotics, small electronics, or embedded hobby projects.
• Exposure to PCB bring-up, firmware debugging, or hardware-in-the-loop environments.
• Familiarity with RTOS concepts (FreeRTOS, Zephyr, etc.).
• Basic scripting skills (Python, Bash) for testing and automation.
• Knowledge of power systems, sensor fusion, or motor-control firmware.
• Interest in aircraft systems, autonomy, or low-level embedded engineering.
• Curiosity, initiative, and comfort working in a hands-on lab environment.

Work Location

• San Luis Obispo, CA

Clearance Requirements

• This position may require access to information that is subject to compliance with the International Traffic Arms Regulations (“ITAR”) and/or the Export Administration Regulations (“EAR”).
• Applicants will be asked to provide specific documentation to verify a US person’s status under the ITAR and the EAR.