Embedded System Software Architect

Embedded System Software Architect

Location:Santa Clara, CA

Primarily onsite with occasional remote flexibility

Role Summary:

We're hiring an Embedded System Software Architect to lead the design of the embedded software layer that connects FPGA/firmware control with high-level applications in advanced CRDS systems. You'll develop Linux-based embedded platforms, device drivers, and system services, ensuring reliable, scalable, and maintainable operation. Your work will have a direct impact on the performance, stability, and field reliability of complex optical-electronic systems.

Key Responsibilities:

• Architect and implement Linux-based embedded software systems, device drivers, and middleware
• Design and maintain APIs and interfaces between FPGA/low-level firmware and application software
• Lead board bring-up and develop hardware abstraction layers for custom electronics
• Optimize interprocess communication, data handling, and system services for performance and reliability
• Collaborate across teams to ensure seamless integration with hardware, firmware, and application layers
• Implement rigorous testing and version control practices for embedded software
• Document designs, interfaces, and operating procedures

Qualifications:

• BS/MS in Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or related field
• 10+ years in embedded systems development for complex instrumentation or high-performance products
• Proficiency with Linux-based embedded platforms, device driver development, and C/C++
• Experience with hardware/software interfaces, including FPGA communication, SPI, I2C, and high-speed serial protocols
• Track record of architecting scalable, maintainable embedded systems in multidisciplinary environments
• Strong problem-solving and communication skills

The salary range for this role is $180K to $200K annually. Our total compensation packages includes base salary, bonus eligibility, and equity.

Why Join Us?

Work at the intersection of hardware and software on technology that is redefining precision measurement, in close collaboration with optics, analog, and application teams.

About Picarro:

Picarro, Inc. is the world's leading producer of greenhouse gas and optical stable isotope instruments, which are used in a wide variety of scientific and industrial applications, including: atmospheric science, air quality, greenhouse gas measurements, gas leak detection, food safety, hydrology, ecology and more. The company's products are all designed and manufactured at Picarro's Santa Clara, California headquarters and exported to countries worldwide. Picarro's products are based on dozens of patents related to cavity ring-down spectroscopy (CRDS) technology. Picarro's solutions are unparalleled in their precision, ease of use, portability, and reliability.

Honors awarded the Company include the World Economic Forum Technology Innovation Pioneer, IHS CERA Energy Innovation Pioneer, the U.S. Department of Energy Small Business of the Year, the TiE50 Winner and the Red Herring Global 100 Winner.

Key investors include Benchmark Capital Partners, Greylock Management Corporation, Duff, Ackerman & Goodrich, Stanford University, Focus Ventures, Mingxin China Growth Ltd., NTT Finance and Weston Presidio Capital.