Job Description

Role:Embedded/Firmware Engineer
Location:San Francisco, CA.
On site. Full time.

About the job:
Advantra is partnering with an early-stage defense technology startup in San Francisco to hire an Embedded/Firmware Engineer to develop and integrate embedded systems for edge-deployed laser defense platforms.

About the role:
You will design, develop, and deploy embedded firmware and PCBs, integrate sensors and motors, and validate field-ready robotics platforms. You will work hands-on across firmware, electronics, and robotic systems to deliver reliable, rugged, and high-performance solutions for laser defense applications.

Responsibilities:

1. Develop, test, and maintain firmware for embedded controllers, motor drivers, and integrated sensors.
2. Implement real-time control systems, sensor data acquisition, and processing algorithms.
3. Design and validate custom embedded PCBs integrating microcontrollers, sensors, motor drivers, and communications.
4. Integrate and validate sensors (IMUs, LiDAR, cameras) and motors with embedded platforms.
5. Drive hands-on prototyping, assembly, and rigorous field testing of embedded electronics.
6. Conduct environmental, vibration, shock, and robustness tests to validate system reliability.
7. Conduct DFM reviews and collaborate with suppliers to optimize manufacturability and production.
8. Partner with mechanical, optical, and robotics teams to integrate embedded electronics into laser platforms.
9. Generate schematics, BOMs, wiring diagrams, firmware documentation, and assembly instructions.
   
   
   
   

Core requirements:

1. 3 to 8 years in electrical engineering, embedded systems, firmware, or robotics roles.
2. Proficient in embedded C/C++, Python, RTOS, and firmware development tools.
3. Experience with PCB design tools such as Altium Designer or KiCad.
4. Hands-on experience with sensor integration and motor control systems.
5. Familiarity with thermal management and EMI/EMC considerations.
6. Experience deploying rugged embedded systems in field environments.
7. BS or MS in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Robotics, or related field.
8. Strong problem-solving, communication, and cross-functional collaboration skills.
9. Ability to design and integrate embedded systems for real-time robotics applications.
10. Must be able to obtain a security clearance.
    
    
    
    

Nice to have:

1. Experience with ruggedized embedded systems in harsh environments.
2. Familiarity with MIL-STD standards and ITAR compliance.
3. Background in real-time robotics control systems.
4. Experience with high-reliability, defense-grade electronics.

How to apply:
Email careers@theadvantra.com with links to shipped work and a short note on what you owned. Company name shared after the intro.

About Us:
Advantra-Upstart Crew is a search program inside Advantra Consulting. We partner with early stage and high growth startups to hire the top 2% in Tech and GTM. We run end to end searches, from single role headhunts to full team build outs, using domain experts and a vetted network to deliver tight shortlists. We stay close to founders and candidates so the relationship lasts beyond the first hire.

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