Firmware and Embedded Software Engineer

Council For Scientific And Industrial Research; Pretoria; On-site; ZAR 700 000 - 900 000; Full time

Job summary

A leading research organization in Pretoria is seeking a Firmware and Embedded Software Engineer to design and develop embedded software and firmware for microcontrollers. The role involves collaboration with product design teams and offers a competitive remuneration package along with flexible hybrid work arrangements. Ideal candidates have a background in electronic engineering and experience with firmware development.

Benefits

Flexible hybrid work arrangement

Learning and development opportunities

Competitive and market-related remuneration packages

Pension fund contributions

Medical scheme contributions

Qualifications

• At least three years’ experience in firmware development.
• Experience with microcontrollers, sensors, and communication protocols.
• Familiarity with PCB layout and schematic design.

Responsibilities

• Interpret requirements and specifications.
• Design and develop embedded firmware for microcontrollers.
• Collaborate with the product design team.

Skills

Firmware development experience

Programming in C / C++

Python programming skills

Microcontroller experience

Circuit design understanding

Analytical skills

Attention to detail

Education

Bachelor degree in electronic engineering

Tools

Version control using Git

Oscilloscopes

Multimeters

Logic analysers

Job description

Job title:

Firmware and Embedded Software Engineer

Job Location:

Gauteng, Pretoria

Deadline:

October 22, 2025

About the job:

The CSIR has a vacancy for a Firmware and Embedded Software Engineer in the Command Control and Integrated Systems Impact Area within the Defence and Security cluster. The incumbent will be responsible to design, customise and develop embedded software. This position is based in Pretoria and will report to the Research Group Leader.

Key responsibilities:

• Interpret requirements and specifications;
• Design and develop embedded firmware for microcontrollers and IoT systems;
• Build, test, and debug embedded systems prototypes;
• Collaborate with the product design team to integrate electronics into hardware systems;
• Provide circuit design and PCB development;
• Perform bench testing using oscilloscopes, multimeters, and logic analysers;
• Maintain software repositories and manage version control using Git;
• Support technical training and assist participants or interns on embedded-related projects;
• Prepare documentation and technical reports on all embedded system-related activities.

Qualifications, skills and experience:

• A Bachelor degree in electronic engineering with at least three years’ experience in firmware development.
• Experience working with microcontrollers, sensors, and communication protocols is required;
• Web or Mobile Software development will be added advantage;
• Strong programming skills in C / C++, Python, or similar languages;
• Solid understanding of electronics principles, power systems, and circuit protection;
• Familiarity with PCB layout and schematic design;
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills;
• Strong attention to detail and document preparation.

What’s in it for you?

The CSIR offers:

• Flexible hybrid work arrangement;
• Learning and development opportunities.
• Competitive and market-related remuneration packages.
• Total guaranteed salary packages which encompass contributions to the pension fund, risk insurance and medical scheme.
• We openly acknowledge and reward our employees' contributions and accomplishments through our esteemed CSIR Excellence Awards.
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