Senior Firmware Developer

Northern Digital Inc; Waterloo; On-site; CAD 100,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading healthcare tech company in Waterloo seeks a Senior Firmware Developer to design and develop cutting-edge embedded software for advanced tracking systems. Candidates should have over 10 years of experience in embedded system development, proficient in C/C++, and strong problem-solving skills. Enjoy a hybrid work model, competitive pay, and an array of benefits including stock options and 15 vacation days from day one.

Benefits

Competitive pay with RRSP match

Comprehensive benefits package

Employee Stock Purchase Plan

15 vacation days plus holiday shutdown

Social events and engagement activities

Qualifications

• 10+ years of experience in embedded system development.
• Hands-on experience developing multi-threaded applications.
• Excellent organizational and written communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Design and develop real-time embedded control firmware.
• Integrate firmware with FPGAs and target hardware.
• Collaborate across multiple teams on product requirements.

Skills

C / C++ proficiency

Embedded system development

Real-time programming

Problem-solving skills

Communication skills

Education

Degree in Computer Engineering or related

Tools

Oscilloscopes

Logic analyzers

Job description

AT NDI, THE WORK YOU DO HERE MAKES A DIFFERENCE.

Every day, we help shape the future of healthcare. We design and build 3D tracking systems that equip medical devices with advanced spatial navigation technology, delivering greater accuracy, performance, and confidence in procedures where precision is critical. Since 1981, we’ve partnered with leading OEMs and research institutes to push the boundaries of surgical navigation. Our optical and electromagnetic technologies are trusted in procedures ranging from orthopaedics and spine surgery to cardiac interventions and radiation therapy.

Whether you're designing systems, supporting customers, or enabling the teams behind them, your work matters. It brings clarity to healthcare and helps improve outcomes for patients around the world.

THE IMPACT YOU’LL MAKE :

We are looking for an innovative, results-oriented Senior Firmware Developer to join our R&D team in developing embedded software that powers the next generation of our advanced optical metrology and motion tracking systems used in applications ranging from neurosurgery to robotics. As a key member of a dynamic, cross-functional team of engineers, you will be responsible for design, development, and integration of real-time embedded control firmware, high-speed processing algorithms, drivers, and communication protocols. This role requires someone who can work effectively across a wide range of technologies, from system-level concepts to detailed implementations.

HOW YOU’LL CONTRIBUTE :

• Design and development of real-time embedded control firmware, processing algorithms, drivers, and protocols that power NDI’s advanced measurement systems.
• Integrate firmware with FPGAs and target hardware, contributing to the overall embedded software architecture and design.
• Collaborate closely with System Architecture, Hardware, Design Verification, and other R&D and Manufacturing teams.
• Actively collaborate in translating concepts and product requirements into designs.
• Provide expert-level design reviews and develop creative solutions to technical challenges.
• Provide mentorship and training to junior developers.

EDUCATION AND PROFESSIONAL QUALIFICATIONS :

• Degree in Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or equivalent.
• 10+ years of experience in embedded system development and real-time programming.
• Proficient in C / C++, object-oriented design, and developing multi-threaded applications.
• Hands-on experience with tools such as oscilloscopes and logic analyzers.

ADDITIONAL STRENGTHS :

• Familiarity with network device development and TCP / IP network protocols.
• Strong problem-solving and troubleshooting skills.
• Excellent organizational, written, and oral communication skills.
• Proven ability to develop robust solutions for complex problems with a high level of independence.

THE BENEFITS OF JOINING OUR TEAM

• Competitive pay with a 4% RRSP match to help you plan for the future.
• A comprehensive benefits package that supports your health and well-being.
• Company-wide bonus program and regular salary reviews.
• Employee Stock Purchase Plan offering discounted company shares to help you invest in and benefit from our growth.
• A 37.5-hour work week with a hybrid work model where responsibilities allow.
• Receive 15 vacation days starting on day one, plus a paid holiday shutdown in December.
• A calendar full of employee social events and engagement activities.
• Support for your professional and personal growth and career advancement.
• Work where your contributions are valued — recognized as Waterloo Region’s Top Employers and the 2025 Chamber of Commerce Business of the Year.
• Part of a growing global company with offices in Waterloo, Vermont, Germany, and Hong Kong.
• Conveniently located near transit stops, with free on-site parking.

If you’re looking to join a collaborative and curious team—guided by integrity, bold thinking, and a commitment to doing things right—this could be the team for you. We support one another and work together to find creative solutions. Surrounded by passionate people driven by meaningful work, we invite you to apply online and introduce yourself.

• Location: Waterloo
• Application Deadline: September 12, 2025