Senior Embedded Software Engineer (Innovative Advantage)

About the role

We are seeking a Senior Embedded Software Engineer to sustain, troubleshoot, and improve embedded software for in-service business-jet cabin systems (IFE/CMS). You will work across Linux, QNX, RTOS, and bare-metal environments, diagnose field issues on custom hardware, and maintain certification-ready software deployed in production aircraft. This role owns the health of fielded product lines resolving defects, preventing regressions, and managing component obsolescence - and collaborates closely with hardware, FPGA, systems, quality, and field support teams.

Key Details
• Work Days and Hours: Monday to Friday, Full- Time.
• Location: This is a full-time onsite position located in Kirkland, Washington.
• Work Eligibility: Must possess unrestricted authorization to work in the United States without employer sponsorship.

What you'll do
• Own the software lifecycle of fielded embedded products, driving reliability, maintainability, and continued compliance across microprocessor and DSP-based systems.
• Diagnose and resolve field-reported defects across custom SoC platforms (ARM), peripherals (I2C/SPI/UART, GPIO, USB, Ethernet), and networking stacks (TCP/UDP, multicast).
• Perform root cause analysis on production issues; develop and validate corrective actions through the full verification cycle.
• Lead HW/SW troubleshooting on fielded units using oscilloscopes, logic analyzers, JTAG, and trace tools.
• Lead sustaining engineering efforts on assigned product lines; mentor junior engineers, prioritize defect backlogs, and coordinate with product management on release planning.
• Manage component obsolescence and end-of-life transitions; evaluate, qualify, and integrate alternate parts with minimal design disruption.
• Maintain certification-aligned software processes (requirements, design, code reviews, regression tests, verification evidence) for updates to fielded products.
• Collaborate across FPGA, hardware, manufacturing, quality, and field support teams to resolve cross-functional issues and drive continuous improvement.

Required Qualifications
• Bachelor of Science degree in Computer Science or Electrical Engineering (BSCS, BSEE) or equivalent.
• Eight (8) or more years of embedded software design experience.
• Experience with QNX Neutrino RTOS, including BSP development, driver work, or system integration.
• Must be familiar/experienced with the C programming language in Embedded Systems/Real-Time OS.
• Strong debugging and root cause analysis skills across hardware/software boundaries in production environments.
• Experience sustaining or supporting Ethernet and microprocessor/DSP-based products through their full lifecycle, including post-release maintenance and field issue resolution.
• Logical thought processes, excellent attention to detail, ability to conceptualize, implement, and document innovative solutions.
• Ability to read and understand schematics and datasheets.
• Strong problem-solving skills with a bias toward practical, low-risk fixes that preserve system stability.
• Take ownership, communicate risks early, deliver to commitments.
• Drive technical direction on sustaining priorities and continuous improvement within the team.
• Effectively communicate technical concepts to cross-functional stakeholders and leadership.
• Disciplined approach to regression testing, requirements traceability, and change-impact analysis.
• Proficiency with Git or equivalent source control.
• Ability to quickly ramp up on legacy codebases and make safe, well-scoped changes with minimal regression risk.

Preferred Qualifications
• Experience with diagnostic and test equipment (oscilloscopes, logic analyzers, spectrum analyzers, boundary scan, etc.).
• Experience with HTML/CSS/JS and/or Front-End GUI Design.
• Experience with one or more Real-Time Operating Systems.
• Experience with ARM assembly language.
• Experience with Linux OS tools, Bash scripts.
• Familiarity with DO-178C.
• Familiarity with FAA and/or Mil Spec requirements

About Heads Up Technologies

At Heads Up Technologies, we're redefining what's possible in the air. Since our beginnings in a Dallas hangar in 1985, we've grown into a global leader in aviation technology driven by innovation, precision, and a relentless pursuit of better in-flight experiences. From pioneering digital audio and lighting systems to uniting with STG Aerospace and ALTO Aviation under one brand, we continue to lead the way in cabin systems integration for business and commercial aircraft. Join us as we shape the future of aviation where lighting, entertainment, safety, and audio come together to elevate every journey.

Our Company

We are a team of engineers, innovators, creators, and problem solvers who are passionate about building smarter solutions for the aviation industry.

Through the combined strengths of our specialized brands and capabilities, Heads Up Technologies brings together deep technical expertise, modern design thinking, and a collaborative approach to support customers across every stage of the product lifecycle.

Our Culture

At Heads Up Technologies, our culture is grounded in shared values that guide how we work and grow.

Integrity
We act with honesty, accountability, and respect in everything we do.

Teamwork
We collaborate across teams and disciplines to achieve the best outcomes.

Excellence
We are committed to delivering high-quality work and continuously improving.

Expertise
We leverage our knowledge and experience to solve complex challenges

Our Mission

To elevate the aviation experience by delivering intelligent, integrated solutions powered by exceptional people.

Why work with us?

Joining Heads Up Technologies means being part of a team that is shaping the future of aviation.

We offer an environment where employees are empowered to contribute, grow their careers, and make a direct impact on innovative products used across the globe. Whether you are developing technology or supporting business operations, your work here matters.

Benefits and Perks

At Heads Up Technologies, we are committed to supporting the health, well being, and financial security of our employees and their families. Eligible employees have access to a competitive benefits package designed to support life at work and beyond.

Benefits may include:
• Medical plan options through Blue Cross Blue Shield (Company Paid)
• Dental and vision coverage
• Health Savings Account option with company contribution, if eligible
• Company paid Basic Life and AD&D insurance
• Company paid Long Term Disability coverage
• Voluntary Short Term Disability, Accident, and Critical Illness insurance
• Employee Assistance and Wellness Support resources
• Virtual care access
• Benefit Resource Center support
• Paid time off and paid holidays

Benefit eligibility and coverage are based on employment status, plan documents, and company policy. Official plan documents govern all benefits.

The pay range for this role is:

160,000 - 190,000 USD per year (Innovative Advantage, Inc)