Firmware Engineer

Huntington Beach, California, United States

About Mach Industries

Founded in 2023, Mach Industries is a rapidly growing defense technology company focused on developing next-generation autonomous defense platforms. At the core of our mission is the commitment to delivering scalable, decentralized defense systems that enhance the strategic capabilities of the United States and its allies. With a workforce of approximately 350 employees, we operate with startup agility and ambition.

Our vision is to redefine the future of warfare through cutting-­edge manufacturing, innovation at speed, and unwavering focus on national security. We are dedicated to solving the next generation of warfare with lethal systems that deter kinetic conflict and protect global security.

The Role

The Firmware Engineer will play a pivotal role in the development of our cutting-­edge embedded systems, focusing on firmware development, prototyping, and design for aerospace vehicles. This position requires advanced technical skills in embedded software development, programming for microcontrollers, and knowledge of system-level integration. As a core member of the engineering team, you will contribute significantly to the Mach software team.

Key Responsibilities

Software System Design: Utilize your expertise in embedded systems software design to develop firmware for the control and operation of our embedded systems in weapons applications.

Prototyping and Testing: Take an active role in sourcing components, firmware specifications, system integration, and troubleshooting of completed embedded system designs, ensuring they meet performance and quality standards.

Embedded Systems Controls: Implement control algorithms for the precise movement and operation of embedded systems within the weapons platform.

Collaboration: Collaborate closely with cross-­functional teams to seamlessly integrate your embedded system designs into the broader project scope.

Hardware Interaction: Work in tandem with hardware engineers to ensure optimal communication between software and embedded hardware components.

Continuous Learning: Stay abreast of the latest technologies and methodologies in embedded systems engineering to bring innovative solutions to the team.

Quality Assurance: Ensure that all software designs and integrations meet industry and defense standards for quality, performance, and safety.

Documentation: Maintain detailed records of software designs, specifications, and testing protocols for compliance and future reference.

Required Qualifications

Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Software Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field.

3+ years experience working on embedded systems for aerospace applications.

Proficiency in C/C++/Rust, or similar programming languages for embedded systems.

Experience using RTOS.

Proven experience in embedded software development and prototyping, preferably in a product development setting.

Hands‑on experience with microcontrollers and embedded systems.

Solid fundamentals of the entire software development life‑cycle, including architecture, design, development, deployment and support of complex software systems.

Proactively identify opportunities for improvement and take initiative to propose and implement solutions that enhance efficiency, quality and overall project success.

Contribute to agile project planning and task generation, including communicating risks, issues and blockers.

Ability to work on‑site in Huntington Beach, CA.

U.S. security clearance eligibility.

Preferred Qualifications

Experience with Rust programming language (Embassy framework strongly preferred).

Knowledge of communication protocols such as SPI, I2C, and UART.

Experience writing drivers for complex sensors (IMU, LIDAR, etc).

To conform to U.S. Government export regulations, applicant must be a (i) U.S. citizen or national, (ii) U.S. lawful, permanent resident (aka green card holder), (iii) Refugee under 8 U.S.C. § 1157, or (iv) Asylee under 8 U.S.C. § 1158, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State. Learn more about ITAR here.

$125,000 - $160,000 USD

$165,000 - $220,000 USD

At Mach, we believe that compensation is more than just a paycheck. It's a comprehensive package designed to reward the time, skills, and expertise you bring to our team. We are committed to offering competitive compensation that is equitable, transparent, and aligned with market trends.

Key Elements of Our Compensation Philosophy:

• Competitive Salaries : We continuously research market rates to ensure our salaries are competitive with those in our industry and geographic location.
• Performance-Based Incentives : Our bonus structure is tied to both individual and company performance, creating a win-‑win scenario that motivates our team members to excel.
• Equity Participation : We offer stock options or equity to employees, ensuring that you share in the success and growth of the company.
• Benefit Packages : Our benefits include healthcare, dental and vision plans, retirement savings, and paid time off, because we understand that your well‑being extends beyond the office.
• Professional Development : We allocate funds for continuing education, training, and career growth.
• Transparency : We are committed to openness about our compensation tiers and how decisions are made, ensuring trust and mutual respect.

By joining Mach, you’re not just accepting a job—you’re becoming a key part of a team that values your contributions and invests in your growth. Together, we aim to create a rewarding environment that sets the stage for long‑term success.

This position may require access to information protected under U.S. export control laws and regulations, including the Export Administration Regulations (EAR) and the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR). Please note that any offer for employment may be conditioned on authorization to receive software or technology controlled under these U.S. export control laws and regulations without sponsorship for an export license.

Mach participates in E‑Verify and will provide the federal government with your Form I‑9 information to confirm that you are authorized to work in the U.S.

The salary range for this role is an estimate based on a wide range of compensation factors, inclusive of base salary only. Actual salary offers may vary based on (but not limited to) work experience, education and training, critical skills, and business considerations. Highly competitive equity grants are included in most offers and are considered part of Mach’s total compensation package. Mach offers benefits such as health insurance, retirement plans, and opportunities for professional development.

Mach is an equal opportunity employer committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace. All qualified applicants will be treated with respect and receive equal consideration for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, uniform service, Veteran status, age, or any other protected characteristic per federal, state, or local laws, including those with a criminal history, in a manner consistent with the requirements of applicable state and local laws.