Firmware Engineer

Scientific Applications & Research Associates, Inc. (SARA) is a world-class Defense Research and Development enterprise, with a charter to create new and emerging technological innovations in support of Commercial & Government organizations. We have expertise in RF, EMP, Pulsed Power, Acoustics, and Threat Warning Systems, and we prioritize partnering with our customers to address real-world problems with cost-effective solutions... that work.

The SARA High Power Electromagnetics Division (HPEM) is looking for a remarkably talented, motivated, and imaginative Firmware Engineer to support research and development activities and transition innovative technologies to the DoD, DoE, and their contractors in Colorado Springs, CO. The candidate will have the opportunity to grow and learn with talented engineers, physicists, and technicians on long-standing programs and new programs supporting our customers. Our small group will allow the candidate to experience, contribute, and collaborate in a multidisciplinary nature from conception all the way through to operation.

Core Responsibilities:

• Develop bare-metal firmware in C for embedded systems
• Debug firmware issues using oscilloscopes, logic analyzers, and other lab tools
• Collaborate with hardware engineers during board bring-up and debugging
• Participate in developments using microcontrollers and custom-designed hardware
• Support electronic design and validation activities necessary to system integration
• Design and implement Windows-based system interfaces for lab testing and configuration in C#
• Participate in code reviews, testing, and documentation of firmware modules
• Produce and maintain technical documentation throughout development cycle

Requirements:

• Bachelor's degree in Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or related field
• 0 - 5 years of experience in embedded firmware development
• Strong problem-solving skills with the ability to troubleshoot and debug embedded systems
• Proficiency in:
  • C, C#
  • Embedded firmware development on microcontrollers or ARM-based processors, including bare-metal or RTOS-based systems
  • Hardware communication interfaces (I2C, SPI, SDIO, UART)
  • Debugging embedded systems using tools such as oscilloscopes, logic analyzers, or bus analyzers
  • Hardware interaction and basic schematic review

• US Citizen with the ability to obtain and maintain DoD Top Secret security clearance
• May require light physical effort, involving standing, sitting and use of hands while performing duties, carrying or lifting up to 50 pounds
• Working environment is indoor, moderately quiet, reasonably clean, well-lighted and well-ventilated; moderate physical hazards may exist

Preferred Qualifications:

• Master's Degree in Computer Engineering or related field
• Experience with:
  • STM32 microcontrollers
  • Keil MDK
  • Visual Studio

• Active Top Secret security clearance

SARA offers a competitive benefits package to include:

• Medical, dental, vision, disability and life insurance; and other supplemental programs
• A generous PTO program (vacation, sick, holiday)
• Tuition & certification reimbursement
• Flexible work schedules
• Discretionary Employee bonuses
• 401(k) match/profit sharing
• Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP)

Pay Range

Salary at SARA is determined by various factors, including but not limited to location, the individual's particular combination of education, knowledge, skills, competencies, and experience, as well as contract-specific affordability and organizational requirements. The projected compensation range for this position is $75,000 to $110,000 (annualized USD). The estimate displayed represents the typical salary range for this position and is just one component of SARA's total compensation package for employees. Positions are on-site, unless indicated otherwise.

Application Deadline: July 20, 2026

SARA is an equal employment opportunity employer.