Embedded Firmware Engineer (C/C++, Linux)

GDI Infotech; Virginia Beach (VA); Hybrid; USD 96,000 - 138,000; Full time

Job summary

GDI Infotech is seeking an Embedded Firmware Engineer to develop robust firmware for GNSS/inertial navigation products in a defense-related program. The role involves hands-on C/C++ firmware work on ARM-based devices, Linux/RTOS integration, and secure software practices within a hybrid onsite engagement.

The candidate should be proficient with U-Boot/buildroot/kernel, have experience in RTOS concepts, and be comfortable in a fast-moving R&D environment governed by NOFORN requirements.

Qualifications

• Strong hands-on experience developing embedded firmware in C/C++ for embedded platforms.
• Experience with embedded Linux, including kernel/buildroot customization and real-time concepts.

Responsibilities

• Develop embedded firmware for GNSS/inertial navigation devices using C/C++ on ARM platforms.
• Customize Linux RTOS components (U-Boot, buildroot, kernel) for real-time operation.

Skills

Embedded firmware

C/C++

Linux/RTOS

GNSS/IMU experience

U.S. Citizenship

Tools

U-Boot

buildroot

kernel

Yocto

CI/CD

Job description

Embedded Firmware Engineer (C/C++, Linux)

Virginia Beach, United States | Posted on 07/30/2026

GDI Infotech provides technology staffing and digital transformation solutions to MSPs, enterprise technology organizations, and institutions such as universities and government entities.

Job Description

GDIInfotech, Inc.

JOB DESCRIPTION

EmbeddedFirmware Engineer – GNSS / Inertial Navigation Systems

Defense/ PNT R&D|Client-Confidential Engagement|U.S.Persons Only

Client Sector

Defense contractor — Position,Navigation & Timing (PNT) technology

Engagement Type

Contract / Contract-to-Hire(via GDI Infotech)

U.S. Citizen required — NOFORNprogram restrictions apply

Location

Onsite/hybrid with client;specifics confirmed at engagement

Period of Performance

Initial deliverables duewithin 180 calendar days of requirements release, plus up to 90 days ofpost-delivery support

ABOUT THE OPPORTUNITY

GDI Infotech is supporting a defense technology client thatdevelops mission-specific navigation and timing solutions for governmentcustomers. The client's PNT (Position, Navigation and Timing) Directorate isseeking embedded firmware engineers to support two related Research &Development efforts: a multi-receiver GPS/inertial navigation card (“M-REGI”)and a secure, non-“Over-The-Air” timing and ephemeris delivery system (“SecureStart”).

Candidates with strong embedded C/C++ and Linux/RTOS experience,ideally with GNSS or inertial navigation exposure, are strongly encouraged toapply.

WHAT YOU'LL WORK ON

• • M-REGI(Navigation Card): Developing embedded C/C++ firmware for acustom circuit card built around a Microchip SAM9X60 ARM processor, integratingdual GPS satellite receivers and a tactical-grade Inertial Measurement Unit(IMU).
• • Implementing Multi-Hypothesis Tracking (MHT)logic to arbitrate between two satellite-based navigation solutions usingcovariance, satellite tracking, and spoofing-detection metadata.
• • SecureStart (Timing/Ephemeris POC): Building aproof-of-concept, laptop-based system (Linux/Ubuntu) that generates anddelivers precise satellite timing and ephemeris data to a navigation receiverwithout relying on standard over-the-air signals — reducing vulnerability tospoofing.
• • Working from orbital-parameter curve-fitalgorithms (SDP4-based), Look-Up Table generation for GPS/Galileoconstellations, and Precision Time Protocol (PTP) synchronization.
• • Customizing Linux RTOS components (U-Boot,buildroot, kernel) for real-time embedded operation using the Yocto project.
• • Building a lightweight CI/CD pipelineappropriate for an R&D environment.
• • Documenting code structure, data flow, anduser interface/configuration parameters.
• • Providing up to 90 days of post-deliveryengineering support, including troubleshooting, minor code changes, andknowledge transfer/training.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

• • Strong hands-on experience developing embeddedfirmware in C/C++.
• • Experience with embedded Linux, includingkernel/buildroot customization and real-time operating system concepts (Yoctoproject experience a plus).
• • Familiarity with serial, USB, and TCP/IPcommunication interfaces on embedded platforms.
• • Ability to work from block diagrams, writtenspecifications, and MATLAB reference scripts to implement equivalentfunctionality in firmware.
• • Comfort working in a small, fast-movingR&D environment with evolving requirements.
• • U.S. Citizenship required; ability to complywith NOFORN handling requirements (no dissemination to foreign nationals,entities, or governments).

PREFERRED / NICE-TO-HAVE

• • Background in GNSS/GPS receiver systems,inertial navigation, or Extended Kalman Filter (EKF) implementations.
• • Experience with satellite orbital mechanics orTLE (Two-Line Element) data / SGP4-SDP4 propagation models.
• • Familiarity with Precision Time Protocol (PTP)or other precision timing/synchronization systems.
• • Experience building CI/CD pipelines forembedded or R&D software workflows.
• • Working knowledge of IEEE 730 (SoftwareQuality Assurance Plans) or similar SQA frameworks.
• • Prior experience on defense, aerospace, orother ITAR/NOFORN-controlled programs.

ABOUT GDI INFOTECH

GDI Infotech, Inc. is an IT staffing and recruiting firmspecializing in the MSP/MSSP and technology services channel, offering directhire, contract-to-hire, contract staffing, and onsite project deployment. GDIpartners with clients to deliver qualified, vetted technical talent quickly andreliably.