Principal Architect, Firmware / Software

Principal Architect Firmware/Software

For this U.S. based position, the expected compensation range is $142,400 - $213,600 per year, which includes base pay and short-term incentive. The compensation range for this full-time position applies to candidates located within the United States. Our salary ranges are determined by reviewing roles of similar responsibility and level. Within the salary range, individual pay is determined by several factors including performance, knowledge, job-related skills, experience, and relevant education or training. Schneider Electric also offers a comprehensive benefits package to support our employees, inclusive of medical (with member reward points), dental, vision, and basic life insurance, Benefit Bucks (credits to apply towards your benefits) flexible work arrangements, paid family leaves, 401(k) + match, well-being and recognition (including service anniversary) programs, 12 holidays per year, 15 days of paid time off per year (pro-rated in the first year of employment based on start date), opportunity to purchase company stock (eligibility depends on start date), and military leave benefits.

You must submit an online application to be considered for the position. The Company will accept applications on an ongoing basis until the position is filled.

About the Role

We are seeking a seasoned Principal Architect Firmware/Software with 10+ years of experience to lead the design, development, and optimization of firmware/software for our industrial automation product line, including Distributed Control Systems (DCS), Software Defined Automation, and field I/O devices. You will architect scalable, real-time firmware/software solutions that ensure high reliability, safety, and performance in harsh industrial environments such as manufacturing, oil & gas, LNG, petrochemical, and power generation. The role also collaborates closely with multiple teams, including offer and program managers, to review and interpret system requirements, translating them into implementable product architectures and specifications for Agile teams.

What Will You Do

Key Responsibilities:

• Architect end-to-end firmware solutions for DCS controllers, field I/O modules, and gateways with an emphasis on real-time operation, deterministic performance, and deep understanding of external components and their integration into system architecture.
• Define firmware architecture including RTOS selection, driver development, and communication protocols (e.g., Modbus, Profibus, Foundation Fieldbus), with strong awareness of how external components and systems integrate with DCS development.
• Lead design reviews and ensure alignment with key industrial standards such as IEC 62443, IEC 61131, IEC 61499, and other applicable standards influencing cybersecurity, system design, and interoperability.
• Oversee firmware development in C/C++ with focus on modularity, scalability, and integration with cloud and edge analytics.
• Provide architectural guidance rather than hands-on coding when appropriate.
• Lead or oversee troubleshooting of complex issues, unit/integration testing, and ensure conformance with security and communication protocol standards.
• Mentor engineers and drive innovation in areas including AI-accelerated architecture, design, implementation, and test workflows.

Mandatory Skills (Required)

10+ years in embedded firmware development for industrial automation, with proven experience in DCS, PLC, and I/O systems. Expertise in C/C++ for bare-metal and RTOS environments (e.g., FreeRTOS, Zephyr, RT-Linux, VxWorks). Strong knowledge of ARM Cortex-M/A architectures, microcontrollers, and peripherals (ADC/DAC, PWM, industrial Ethernet, CAN). Experience with industrial protocols (Modbus TCP/RTU, OPC UA) and real-time embedded systems. Solid understanding of cybersecurity frameworks (IEC 62443), industrial automation standards (IEC 61131, IEC 61499), and embedded testing methodologies. Experience in product architecture or product ownership and leading Agile development teams.

Nice-to-Have Skills (Preferred)

Technical Skills: Experience with Linux kernel development for industrial systems. Familiarity with TSN, edge AI/ML frameworks, and open-source development. Background in high-availability systems, redundancy protocols (PRP/HSR), or FPGA-based acceleration. Proven ability to create modular, future-proof architectures with emphasis on scalability using open-source or inner-source methodologies. Strong experience applying software design patterns such as HAL abstraction, state machines, and layered architecture. Stakeholder Management & Leadership: Strong interpersonal skills to align cross-functional teams, including hardware, Firmware, Software, Quality, and product management. Experience leading technical roadmaps, influencing senior stakeholders, and guiding major architectural decisions. Demonstrated ability to mentor teams and drive innovation.

What Qualifications Will Make You Successful?

Bachelor's/Master's in Electronics, Computer Engineering, or related field. Excellent problem-solving skills and ability to work across cross-functional teams. Strong communication skills for technical documentation and stakeholder alignment.

Let us learn about you! Apply today.