Robotics Engineer, Embedded Software

TerraFirma, Inc.; Austin (TX); On-site; USD 100,000 - 170,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading company in robotics and automation is searching for an embedded systems engineer focused on designing and implementing cutting-edge technology to revolutionize construction. This opportunity involves high-level design and hands-on development, perfect for talented innovators seeking to make a significant impact in a fast-paced environment.

Qualifications

• 3+ years of experience in software and firmware development for embedded systems.
• Led teams and managed large-scale deliverables.
• Experience with real-time systems and robotics preferred.

Responsibilities

• Design and architect firmware and low-level code for embedded systems.
• Perform platform bringup for new hardware and lead sensor integration.
• Mentor new employees and lead interdisciplinary teams.

Skills

Ownership

Fast learning

Versatile technical skills

Education

Bachelor's degree in computer engineering, computer science, electrical engineering, or a related field

Tools

Embedded systems

Microcontrollers

Linux

Testing frameworks

Job description

Are you an elite engineer seeking the freedom and resources to achieve the impossible? THEN COME BUILD GIANT TERRAFORMING ROBOTS THAT WILL BUILD A BETTER FUTURE!

At TerraFirma, we're not just building robots — we’re redefining how the world moves earth for construction.

Our team, founded by former SpaceX engineers and backed by Bain Capital Ventures, is driven by a mission to make construction faster, more efficient, and more sustainable through pragmatic human-in-the-loop automation.

Visit www.buildgiantrobots.com for more information.

Our Mission:

TerraFirma was founded to build a brighter future for humanity by revolutionizing how we construct the large-scale physical infrastructure our civilization desperately needs. From enabling mega-scale renewable energy projects and constructing resilient cities, to building efficient transportation and eco-friendly water infrastructure, our work today paves the way for a brighter, more sustainable future. The first step in all of these projects is to move massive amounts of dirt incredibly efficiently. As we look to the stars, we recognize that mining, processing, and moving raw materials will be the foundation of humanity's expansion into the cosmos. TerraFirma is pioneering the technology that will not only secure a sustainable future for humanity on Earth but also unlock the boundless possibilities of interplanetary expansion.

Our Company:

TerraFirma was founded by two engineers named Noah who met while studying engineering at Princeton. After Princeton, both contributed to cutting-edge projects at SpaceX, where Noah Schochet (CEO) designed and mass-produced the Starlink user terminals and Starship rockets, and Noah McGuinness (CTO) developed flight software for SpaceX's satellite constellation. Now, they're taking the SpaceX Mentality — rapid iteration based on engineering first principles — to the construction industry. Their experience in pushing the boundaries of space exploration now fuels TerraFirma's mission to transform how we build the world's critical infrastructure here on Earth.

We are moving at light speed, and are ready to start scaling. Our fully functional ecosystem retrofits existing earthmoving machines (excavators, bulldozers, loaders, etc.) and enables one operator to control three or more machines simultaneously. Our headquarters, AKA Robot Ranch, is located in Austin, TX. We are committed to iterating and improving as rapidly as possible. To that end, we have fully stocked mechanical and electrical workshops, giant machines to retrofit, plenty of land to test on, and we are surrounded by earthworks projects with customers eager to start using our technology.

What we're looking for:

We’re seeking innovators, boundary-pushers, and people who will move heaven and earth to achieve the impossible. If you are someone who:

• Is driven by a relentless need to make the world better
• Thrives in fast-paced, high-pressure environments
• Hates being a cog in a machine and wants extreme ownership and opportunities to learn
• Has developed versatile technical skills by building amazing projects
• Can wear many hats, and loves learning new skills quickly

Then you're in the right place!

The Role:

In this role, you will take hands-on ownership of projects related to embedded hardware and software for our robots. Responsibilities include high-level design decisions for custom embedded hardware, direct implementation of low-level code, software development for Linux-based systems with real-time constraints, and microcontrollers for sensing and feedback control. You will own platform bringup for new boards, develop drivers for new chips and sensors, and shape testing frameworks and software development standards. This role is suited for fast learners comfortable working autonomously with a broad scope of responsibility.

Responsibilities:

• Design and architect firmware and low-level code for embedded systems and microcontrollers
• Perform platform bringup for new hardware, including driver implementation, sensor integration, boot development, and networking
• Own sensor integration, calibration, and testing for prototypes and production systems
• Lead interdisciplinary teams, mentor new employees, and participate in hiring

Basic Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in computer engineering, computer science, electrical engineering, or a related field
• 3+ years of experience in software and firmware development for embedded systems and microcontrollers
• Experience owning large-scale deliverables, leading teams, and driving product roadmaps

Preferred Skills & Experience:

• Experience with safety-critical or real-time systems
• Experience in robotics, autonomous vehicles, aerospace, automotive, or construction applications
• Familiarity with embedded platform and toolchain development
• Experience with testing frameworks and CI/CD pipelines
• Ability to work autonomously in a fast-paced environment

Additional Requirements:

• Willingness to work extended hours or weekends when needed
• Willingness to relocate to Austin, TX if not within commuting distance

Compensation & Benefits:

The annual salary range for this role is $100,000 - $170,000, depending on experience and education. The total package includes equity and relocation support if applicable.