Job Title: Embedded Software EngineerJob Description
This role focuses on developing embedded software and firmware for new products from the ground up. You will design, implement, and optimize software running on 32-bit microprocessors, working primarily in embedded C++. The position involves contributing to safety-critical systems, particularly in domains such as medical devices or aerospace, and requires close collaboration with hardware and systems teams to deliver reliable, high-performance embedded solutions.
Responsibilities
Design, develop, and implement embedded software and firmware for new products from concept through deployment.
Program primarily in embedded C++ on 32-bit microprocessors, ensuring efficient, reliable, and maintainable code.
Develop and integrate software within real-time operating systems (RTOS), such as QNX, FreeRTOS, SafeRTOS, TI-RTOS, or µC/OS.
Work within safety-critical environments, such as medical device or aerospace applications, and follow relevant safety and quality processes.
Develop, customize, and maintain Board Support Packages (BSPs) to enable hardware bring-up and low-level system functionality.
Collaborate with hardware, systems, and test engineers to define requirements, interface specifications, and integration strategies.
Debug and troubleshoot embedded systems at the firmware, driver, and hardware interaction levels using appropriate tools and techniques.
Implement and optimize communication interfaces such as SPI, I2C, and UART for reliable data transfer between components.
Contribute to the design and development of device drivers and low-level software for microprocessors and microcontrollers.
Participate in code reviews, documentation, and adherence to software development best practices in an embedded environment.
Support the development of embedded systems that may use QNX or Embedded Linux, including kernel-level and user-space components.
Assist in creating or integrating embedded graphical user interfaces (GUIs) using frameworks such as Qt when needed.
Essential Skills
At least 5 years of embedded software development experience.
At least 5 recent years of hands-on RTOS experience with platforms such as QNX, FreeRTOS, SafeRTOS, TI-RTOS, or µC/OS.
At least 5 years of experience developing software in embedded C++.
A minimum of 1 year of experience working in a safety-critical environment, such as medical device or aerospace applications.
At least 1 year of experience working with Board Support Packages (BSPs).
Strong proficiency in firmware and embedded software development on 32-bit microprocessors.
Proficiency in real-time embedded systems and understanding of RTOS concepts, scheduling, and resource management.
Solid experience with embedded systems development, including low-level programming and hardware-software integration.
Ability to debug and troubleshoot embedded systems at the firmware and hardware interface level.
Strong understanding of C++ for embedded systems and the ability to write efficient, robust, and portable code.
Additional Skills & Qualifications
Proficiency in both C++ and C for embedded development.
Experience with Embedded Linux, including development and integration in embedded environments.
Experience with multithreaded programming in embedded systems.
Proficiency with communication interfaces such as SPI, I2C, and UART.
Experience with device driver development for embedded systems.
Familiarity with QNX or Embedded Linux operating systems.
Experience working with microcontrollers and microprocessors, including ARM-based architectures.
Experience with embedded graphical user interfaces (GUIs) and Qt for embedded systems.
Background in firmware development and embedded system design in safety-critical applications.
Ability to work effectively in a collaborative engineering environment and contribute to continuous improvement of processes and tools.
Work Environment
This role is primarily onsite, with the expectation that you will work at the facility each day to collaborate closely with the engineering team and interact directly with hardware and test setups. After you are fully up to speed, there may be an opportunity to discuss a limited hybrid work arrangement, subject to business needs and leadership approval. The environment emphasizes teamwork, support, and professional growth, with a fun and encouraging culture where colleagues help build each other up. You will work on innovative medical equipment and other safety-critical electronic systems used worldwide, using technologies such as 32-bit microprocessors, RTOS platforms (including QNX and Embedded Linux), and modern embedded development tools. The setting is a professional engineering environment focused on high-quality, safety-critical product development.
Job Type & Location
This is a Contract position based out of Saint Paul, MN.
Pay and Benefits
The pay range for this position is $50.00 - $65.00/hr.
Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: - Medical, dental & vision - Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital - 401(k) Retirement Plan - Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available - Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) - Short and long-term disability - Health Spending Account (HSA) - Transportation benefits - Employee Assistance Program - Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)
Workplace Type
This is a hybrid position in Saint Paul,MN.
Application Deadline
This position is anticipated to close on Jun 12, 2026.
About Actalent
Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 30,000 consultants and more than 4,500 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500.
The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.
If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email actalentaccommodation@actalentservices.com for other accommodation options.
San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.
Massachusetts Lie Detector: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.
Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI): We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.
