Interim Embedded Firmware Engineer

SF Recruitment; Sandwell; On-site; GBP 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

A recruitment agency in the United Kingdom is seeking an Interim Embedded Software Engineer to oversee firmware development for embedded Linux systems. The ideal candidate will have over 5 years of experience and demonstrate advanced skills in C++ and Python as well as embedded system architecture. This role emphasizes leadership and effective communication with stakeholders.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience in embedded firmware or embedded Linux development.
• Deep understanding of Debian/Linux system architecture and optimisation.
• Advanced proficiency in C++ and Python.

Responsibilities

• Lead firmware development for Debian-based embedded Linux systems.
• Design and maintain secure OTA pipelines using Mender.
• Implement and manage device-side encryption and secure boot.

Skills

Embedded firmware development

Debian/Linux system architecture

C++

Python

Mender OTA management

Device-side encryption

Secure boot

Bluetooth communication

Wi-Fi communication

Azure Cloud integration

Git

CI/CD

Manufacturing scripts

Job description

SF Recruitment are working with a high-growth, innovative start up in Birmingham to recruit an Interim Embedded Software Engineer to oversee some crucial projects over coming year.

We need someone who is highly intelligent, a leader, self starter and can communicate effectively and with their own initiative with the various stakeholders/development teams. Someone who is self motivated to do what is necessary to get the job done.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead firmware development for Debian-based embedded Linux systems, from architecture to deployment.
• Design and maintain secure OTA pipelines using Mender, including rollback, recovery, and encryption at the device level.
• Implement and manage device-side encryption, secure boot, and partition-level protection with recovery tools.
• Develop manufacturing scripts to automate programming, validation, and hardware testing processes.
• Optimise Linux performance - boot time, memory footprint, and system reliability.
• Build and maintain connectivity stacks (Bluetooth, Wi‑Fi) ensuring robust and seamless user experiences.
• Integrate with Azure IoT / Cloud for data, provisioning, and remote management.
• Use Python to build automation tools, testing frameworks, and cloud deployment utilities.
• Drive Git-based workflows, continuous integration, and release pipelines.
• Communicate effectively with stakeholders - aligning firmware deliverables with product, software, and manufacturing priorities.
• Demonstrate initiative by proactively identifying bottlenecks, proposing solutions, and delivering improvements.
• Leverage AI‑assisted development tools (Codex, Cursor, Copilot) to boost productivity and maintain cutting‑edge practices.

Required Skills & Experience

• 5+ years of experience in embedded firmware or embedded Linux development.
• Deep understanding of Debian/Linux system architecture and optimisation.
• Advanced proficiency in C++ and Python.
• Proven experience with Mender for OTA management and recovery workflows.
• Strong knowledge of device‑side encryption, secure boot, and key handling mechanisms.
• Hands‑on experience with Bluetooth and Wi‑Fi communication stacks.
• Experience integrating with Azure Cloud (IoT Hub, Device Provisioning, or Edge).
• Proficiency with Git, build automation, and CI/CD.
• Experience developing manufacturing scripts for automated flashing and validation.
• Familiarity with Qt/XML for embedded UI or configuration.
• Excellent communication skills and a collaborative mindset - able to work fluidly across teams