SR Firmware Software Engineer (C / Embedded Systems)

Location: On-site — Tigard, OR

Employment Type: Full-time

About the Role

We’re looking for a highly skilled SR Firmware Engineer with deep expertise in modern C and embedded systems. This role is ideal for someone who has built complex software from the ground up, understands the nuances of C at a fundamental level, and thrives in a collaborative, hands-on engineering environment. You’ll join a tight-knit team with an ambitious roadmap and play a critical role in maintaining productivity as the team transitions through upcoming changes.

Core Responsibilities

• Design, implement, and deliver highly reliable embedded firmware using modern C (C 17/20)
• Develop software for RTOS-based systems running on ARM architecture microprocessors
• Build prototypes to validate design concepts, technical constraints, and system behavior
• Collaborate closely with cross-functional engineering teams to develop new products
• Own your work through unit testing, performance testing, and thorough documentation
• Mentor junior engineers through code reviews, technical guidance, and best practices
• Continuously improve internal processes, development tools, and overall code quality

Required Qualifications

• BS in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or related technical field
• 5 years of professional software development experience, with a strong focus on firmware and embedded systems
• Expert-level proficiency in C , including:
  • Virtual destructors
  • Memory management
  • Polymorphism
  • Multi-threading
  • Templates
  • Object-oriented design principles
• Experience developing for RTOS environments
• Hands-on experience with ARM microprocessors
• Additional experience with Python; TypeScript is a plus
• Demonstrated ability to build complex systems from scratch — not just maintain existing code

Disqualifier: Significant job hopping without clear rationale

Nice-to-Have Skills

• Machine vision, image processing, or optics
• Experience with hardware debugging tools (oscilloscopes, logic analyzers, etc.)
• Deep understanding of network stacks, file systems, and memory management
• Familiarity with defensive programming and high-reliability software strategies
• Experience with source control, bug tracking systems, and agile development methodologies

Employee Value Proposition

Cognex offers an exceptional work-life balance and a team culture that extends beyond the office. The group regularly spends time together outside of work — board games, rock climbing, outdoor adventures, sports, and more. You’ll join a team that values both technical excellence and genuine camaraderie.

Work Environment

• On-site in Tigard, OR

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Tigard, OR.

The pay range for this position is $50.00 - $60.00/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)

This is a hybrid position in Tigard,OR.

This position is anticipated to close on Jan 5, 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 due to a disability, please email actalentaccommodation@actalentservices.com for other accommodation options.

Salary : $50 - $60