Principal Embedded Software/Firmware Engineer

Principal Embedded Software/Firmware Engineer We are seeking a Principal Embedded Software/Firmware Engineer to own end-to-end embedded architecture and solutions for advanced optical devices. This is a one-year contract based in Ottawa, Ontario. Key Responsibilities Own end-to-end embedded architecture and solutions from requirements and trade studies through hardware selection, software layering, interfaces, and release readiness.

Define system architecture and implement hands-on solutions across MCUs, RTOS or bare-metal stacks, drivers, middleware, power management, boot/OTA, and security. Partner with hardware, architecture, and manufacturing teams to align schematics and data sheets, analyze scope traces and logic-analyzer results, and validate architecture assumptions on real hardware. Establish architecture standards and patterns, including coding guidelines, HAL/BSP structure, reusable platform layers, documentation, and design reviews.

Lead technical decisions involving cost, performance, power, and time-to-market trade-offs; document rationale and present options to engineering leadership and stakeholders. Drive quality and reliability through debug strategy, diagnostics, failure analysis, environmental and stress considerations, and applicable industry standards. Mentor development and test engineers, guide design reviews, unblock critical issues, and raise team capability.

Skills & Experience BS/MS in Computer Science, Electronics, Electrical Engineering, or a related field with embedded software development experience. Minimum 15+ years of experience in embedded systems design and development. Deep understanding of RTOS, multithreaded software systems, operating-system concepts, and bare-metal development. Strong system-architecture ownership and architectural leadership experience.

Experience with secure boot, cryptography, threat modeling, boot/OTA, and embedded security. Knowledge and experience with OTN standards and optical devices is preferred. Strong object-oriented design and design-pattern expertise. Excellent analytical, troubleshooting, communication, and collaboration skills. Ability to collaborate effectively across multiple global sites and time zones.