Sr. Embedded Software Engineer C/C++

System One; Huntsville (AL); On-site; USD 160,000 - 174,000; Part time

Job summary

System One is seeking a Senior Embedded Software Engineer to build mission-critical embedded software/firmware for advanced defense/aerospace systems. You will work hands-on across the full software lifecycle on real-time embedded platforms in a fast-paced engineering environment.

Requirements include 12+ years of C/C++ experience for embedded systems, RTOS (VxWorks/Integrity/FreeRTOS), and a DoD Secret clearance or ability to obtain.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in CS/CE/EE/SE/Math or related field.
• 12+ years embedded software experience (10+ with Master’s).
• Expert in C/C++ for embedded systems.
• RTOS experience: VxWorks, Integrity, FreeRTOS.
• Experience with ARM Cortex or RISC-V processors.
• Strong problem-solving and self-directed work style.
• Based in North Alabama or willing to relocate to Huntsville.
• Active Secret clearance or ability to obtain.

Responsibilities

• Design and develop embedded software for real-time systems.
• Integrate modules across subsystems and networks.
• Troubleshoot/debug using embedded lab tools and environments.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams and stakeholders.
• Mentor engineers and improve development workflows.

Skills

C/C++

Real-time OS

Troubleshooting

Team mentoring

Education

Bachelor’s degree in CS/CE/EE/SE/Math

Master’s degree

Tools

JTAG

Scopes

Docker/Kubernetes

Job description

Location: Huntsville, AL (On-site)
Type: Contract-to-hire
Clearance: Active DoD Secret clearance or ability to obtain
Pay: $116–$126/hr (W2)

About the role

We’re hiring a Senior Embedded Software Engineer to build and support mission-critical embedded software/firmware for advanced defense/aerospace systems. You’ll work hands-on across the full software lifecycle—design, coding, integration, testing, and debugging—on real-time embedded platforms in a fast-paced engineering environment.

What you’ll do

• Design and develop embedded software (primarily C/C++) for real-time systems
• Integrate software modules across subsystems and distributed networks
• Troubleshoot/debug complex issues using embedded lab tools (JTAG, scopes, etc.)
• Work within modern engineering practices (Agile, DevOps, CI/CD, test automation)
• Collaborate closely with cross-functional teams and communicate directly with stakeholders
• Mentor/guide other engineers and help improve development workflows and tools

Must-haves

• Bachelor’s degree in a technical field (CS/CE/EE/SE/Math, etc.)
• 12+ years relevant experience (or 10+ with Master’s)
• Expert in C/C++ for embedded systems
• Real-time OS experience (ex: VxWorks, Integrity, FreeRTOS)
• Experience with embedded processors/microcontrollers (ex: ARM Cortex, RISC?V)
• Strong problem-solving skills and ability to work independently + collaboratively
• Based in North Alabama or willing to relocate to Huntsville area
• Active Secret clearance or ability to obtain

Nice-to-haves

• Aerospace/defense or other safety/mission-critical embedded experience
• High-speed guided weapons, flight controls, or deterministic high-performance systems
• Containers (Docker/Kubernetes) and/or Model-Based Systems Engineering exposure

System One, and its subsidiaries including Joulé and Mountain Ltd., are leaders in delivering outsourced services and workforce solutions across North America. We help clients get work done more efficiently and economically, without compromising quality. System One not only serves as a valued partner for our clients, but we offer eligible employees health and welfare benefits coverage options including medical, dental, vision, spending accounts, life insurance, voluntary plans, as well as participation in a 401(k) plan.

System One is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender identity, age, national origin, disability, family care or medical leave status, genetic information, veteran status, marital status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.

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Ref: #851-Rockville-S1