Engineering Applications Software Engineer

Digital Prospectors; Pasadena (CA); On-site; USD 96,000 - 165,000; Full time

Job summary

Digital Prospectors seeks an experienced Engineering Applications Software Engineer to develop software for embedded platforms and server-side components within a high-reliability communications network.

The role covers Buildroot-based embedded Linux, Buildroot ecosystem tools, and containerized build processes, with travel to domestic/international sites for 1–2 weeks per year. Strong C/C++, Java, Python, and Linux experience are required.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, Computer Engineering, or related field; typically ≥5 years for Level III or ≥9 years for Level IV.

Responsibilities

• Develop and sustain software for embedded platforms and operational ground systems.
• Collaborate across multidisciplinary teams through full project lifecycle.
• Design, implement, test, and troubleshoot embedded software in Buildroot ecosystem.
• Maintain containerized build processes for CI/CD.

Skills

C programming

C++ programming

Java

Python

Bash scripting

Linux kernel configuration

Git version control

Embedded systems

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science or related field

Master’s degree in related discipline

PhD in related discipline

Tools

Docker

Buildroot

Yocto

U-Boot

Job description

Position: Engineering Applications Software Engineer

Length: 12 month Contract

Job Description

We are seeking an experienced Software Engineer to develop and sustain software for embedded platforms and operational ground systems supporting a high-reliability communications network. This role spans embedded Linux and server-side development and supports systems used in daily mission-critical operations.

The Software Engineer will collaborate with multidisciplinary engineering and operations teams throughout the full project lifecycle, from initial concept and requirements development through implementation, deployment, maintenance, and system maturity.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Develop and maintain a custom embedded Linux operating system using the Buildroot framework.
• Design, implement, test, and troubleshoot embedded software applications in laboratory and operational environments.
• Develop, integrate, and deliver embedded software packages and tools within the Buildroot ecosystem.
• Follow established configuration-management practices and maintain containerized build processes compatible with continuous integration and continuous delivery workflows.
• Implement cybersecurity requirements and recommendations within embedded software systems.
• Produce technical documentation and participate in code and design reviews to ensure high-quality software deliverables.
• Develop and maintain server-side services within a telemetry, tracking, and command software suite.
• Support mission and project operations by answering technical questions, conducting investigations, and resolving software issues.
• Monitor and maintain production service availability, including failover and recovery capabilities.
• Work with operations and project teams to gather requirements and deliver software updates.
• Provide support throughout all phases of the project lifecycle.
• Travel to domestic and international operational sites for approximately 1–2 weeks per year.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, Computer Engineering, or a related technical discipline, with typically at least 5 years of relevant experience for Level III or 9 years for Level IV; or
• Master’s degree in a related discipline, with typically at least 3 years of relevant experience for Level III or 7 years for Level IV; or
• PhD in a related discipline, with typically at least 3 years of relevant experience for Level III or 5 years for Level IV.
• High proficiency in C and C++ programming for embedded systems using modern build systems.
• High proficiency in Java and experience working with databases.
• Deep knowledge of Python and Bash scripting for tooling, system administration, and troubleshooting.
• Experience with Linux kernel configuration and cross-compilation toolchains for embedded architectures.
• Familiarity with Docker containerization for development and build environments.
• Familiarity with implementing cybersecurity requirements in software systems.
• Familiarity with Git version control and standard software development workflows.
• Experience working with high-reliability or mission-critical systems.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work effectively within a small, collaborative team.
• Ability to travel domestically and internationally for approximately 1–2 weeks per year.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with Buildroot, Yocto, or similar embedded Linux build frameworks.
• Experience with the U-Boot bootloader, dual-boot systems, and overlay filesystems.
• Experience with industrial communication protocols such as EtherCAT, CANopen, or serial communications.
• Experience administering database, web server, application server, or authentication services such as MySQL, Apache HTTP Server, Tomcat, LDAP, or single sign-on systems.
• Experience developing server-side applications in Java or another backend programming language.
• Familiarity with Jenkins, Artifactory, or comparable continuous integration, continuous delivery, and artifact-management tools.
• Knowledge of Common Vulnerabilities and Exposures management and security vulnerability assessments for embedded systems.

POST-OFFER BACKGROUND CHECK IS REQUIRED. Digital Prospectors is an Equal Opportunity Employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. Digital Prospectors affirms the right of all individuals to equal opportunity and prohibits any form of discrimination or harassment.