Senior Embedded Software Engineer – Real-Time Flight Software (m/f/d)

About This Opportunity

We are representing a confidential defense technology client in Munich, Germany, seeking a Senior Embedded Software Engineer to lead real-time flight software development for autonomous systems. This is a hands-on role where you'll own the real-time domain of a next-generation mission computer built on modern heterogeneous multi-core Arm architecture.

You'll port and adapt open-source flight stack components to real-time cores, establish inter-processor communication between real-time and Linux domains, and set firmware standards for flight-critical systems. This position works closely with hardware engineering teams through the entire lifecycle—from first boot and board bring-up to flight test validation.

Responsibilities

• Port and adapt open-source flight stack software to the real-time core of the mission computer platform, from bootloader implementation through flight test readiness
• Own real-time domain bring-up including startup code, clocking and power state management, peripheral drivers (UART, SPI, I2C, CAN), watchdog implementation, and fault handling
• Design and implement inter-processor communication architecture between real-time and Linux domains, including transport layers, message contracts, time synchronization, and degradation behavior
• Integrate flight-critical buses and sensor peripherals across the vehicle avionics network
• Drive verification strategy from project inception: establish SIL/HIL test environments, implement automated on-target testing, and conduct flight-log analysis with GNC and flight-test engineering teams
• Define and enforce coding standards, review processes, and testing protocols for flight-critical firmware, including static analysis integration, CI pipelines, and requirements traceability
• Collaborate with hardware engineering on schematic reviews, pin multiplexing design from firmware perspective, and support board bring-up and lab debugging activities

What We're Looking For

• Degree in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Embedded Systems, or comparable qualification
• 5+ years of professional embedded C/C++ development experience
• Strong real-time operating system expertise (NuttX, Zephyr, FreeRTOS) including board bring-up on new silicon
• Hands-on experience with heterogeneous multi-core SoCs and asymmetric multiprocessing architectures (RPMsg/OpenAMP or comparable inter-core communication mechanisms)
• Solid knowledge of embedded buses and protocols: CAN/CAN-FD, UART, SPI, I2C
• Experience with UAV flight stacks (PX4, ArduPilot) and related protocols (MAVLink, DroneCAN) is a strong advantage
• Proficiency with JTAG/SWD debuggers, logic analyzers, and oscilloscopes; ability to read schematics and work effectively at the hardware/software boundary
• Structured, safety-minded approach with ownership from requirements definition through flight test execution
• Fluent English required; German language skills beneficial
• Valid work permit for Germany required (visa sponsorship not available)
• Security clearance requirements may apply based on national affiliations

How We Work With You

Candidates apply directly through Get A Job.ai. Our recruiting team will conduct an initial screening to understand your background and match you with client requirements. Once we determine mutual fit, we'll submit your profile to our client and coordinate all interview stages on your behalf. Please do not contact the client directly—all communication flows through our talent team to ensure the best experience for both parties.

Pay

Compensation details will be discussed during the screening process based on experience level and qualifications. Our client offers virtual stock options, monthly flexible benefits allowances, health and wellness programs, and competitive referral bonuses.

Equal Opportunity

Get A Job.ai is committed to inclusive hiring practices. We welcome qualified candidates of all backgrounds and work to ensure fair consideration throughout our recruiting process.