Embedded Software Engineer

Senior Embedded Software Engineer (C / Linux)

Overview

We are seeking a Senior Embedded Software Engineer to lead the design and development of innovative software solutions for advanced products. This role will serve as a technical leader, driving best practices in software development, mentoring team members, and contributing to cutting-edge technologies including robotics, vision systems, and embedded platforms.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design, development, and testing of high-quality embedded software solutions
• Mentor and guide junior engineers, providing technical feedback and support
• Drive code quality and best practices, including code reviews and clean architecture principles
• Champion agile methodologies, continuous improvement, and root cause problem solving
• Collaborate cross-functionally to align teams, resolve conflicts, and advance project goals
• Develop and maintain technical documentation, standards, and processes
• Deliver working software and present product capabilities to internal stakeholders
• Participate in retrospectives and continuous learning initiatives

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree (or higher) in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or related field
• 5 years of experience in software product development
• Strong proficiency in C within embedded Linux environments
• Experience with:
  • C, C , Python, QML
  • Linux-based systems and embedded development
  • Software design, architecture, and SOLID principles
  • Test-driven development (TDD) and CI/CD practices
• Hands-on experience with:
  • GitLab, Jenkins, Perforce, Artifactory
  • Docker, Yocto, CMake, Conan
  • Debugging tools (gdb/lldb) and profiling tools

Additional / Preferred Skills

• Experience with:
  • Qt / Qt Designer and UI development
  • Automated testing frameworks (gtest, QML testing)
  • Bash scripting, YAML
• Exposure to one or more of the following:
  • Robotics and path planning
  • Machine vision / machine learning
  • Geospatial systems
  • Electrical schematics / hardware interfaces
• Strong foundation in mathematics and problem-solving

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Ames, IA.

The pay range for this position is $45.00 - $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)

This is a hybrid position in Ames,IA.

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.

Salary : $45 - $65