Embedded Software Architect

We are seeking an experienced Architect / Technical Lead to define and lead the technical architecture for an aftermarket In-Cab AI Assistant platform for heavy equipment. This innovative solution includes dedicated compute, a secondary display, voice-first interaction, machine integration, grounded Q&A, and connected-device capabilities such as OTA updates, logging, and diagnostics. The role involves setting the end-to-end architecture while ensuring the solution adheres to safety, compliance, and security constraints., * Define and evolve the end-to-end system architecture across embedded compute, display, audio, machine interfaces, assistant services, OTA, logging, and diagnostics.

• Provide technical leadership across discovery, implementation, integration, optimization, and release readiness.
• Translate program objectives and constraints into architecture, design decisions, and technical priorities.
• Ensure the solution remains within defined safety boundaries, including no AI-driven machine movement and no bypass of existing confirmation patterns.
• Guide machine integration, grounded assistant behavior, and non-functional requirements such as latency, boot time, offline behavior, and reliability.
• Produce architecture artifacts, interface definitions, and technical decision records.
• Support troubleshooting, supplier coordination, and technical risk reduction across the program.

• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, Software Engineering, or a related field.
• 8+ years of experience in software, systems, or embedded engineering, including architecture or technical leadership responsibilities.
• Experience designing and delivering embedded or edge-compute systems.
• Strong background in Linux-based embedded systems and system-level software design.
• Experience with hardware/software integration, including compute, display, audio, or similar device components.
• Experience with machine, vehicle, or industrial interfaces, such as CAN/J1939/CDL or similar environments.
• Experience designing systems with safety, compliance, or functional constraints.
• Familiarity with AI-enabled applications, preferably grounded assistant or RAG-style systems.
• Experience with OTA, diagnostics, logging, telemetry, and device management for connected products.
• Strong documentation, problem-solving, and cross-functional technical leadership skills.
• Strong communication skills.
• Proficient in C/C++ and Python programming.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Experience with NVIDIA Orin / Jetson or similar edge AI platforms.
• Experience with voice systems, including ASR, TTS, and in-cab audio integration.
• Experience with HMI for industrial, automotive, or heavy-equipment applications.
• background in heavy equipment, automotive, industrial IoT, robotics, or connected machinery.
• Experience with cybersecurity architecture for connected embedded systems.
• Experience with aftermarket or retrofit products.
• Familiarity with technical content grounding using manuals, service documentation, or fault data.

This is a Contract position based out of Chillicothe, IL.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $85.00 - $100.00/hr.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: - Medical, dental & vision - Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital - 401(k) Retirement Plan - Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available - Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) - Short and long-term disability - Health Spending Account (HSA) - Transportation benefits - Employee Assistance Program - Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

Workplace Type

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 20,000 consultants and 5,000 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500. We are proud to be an Engineering News-Record (ENR) Top 500 Design Firm for our engineering design services and a ClearlyRated Best of Staffing winner for both client and talent service.