> Markdown version of [/jobs/ext/2376570-senior-principal-r-d-computer-engineer-embedded-systems-onsite](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/jobs/ext/2376570-senior-principal-r-d-computer-engineer-embedded-systems-onsite). Every page supports `.md` or `Accept: text/markdown`. Links point to the HTML versions so they work for humans too. Agent guide: [/agents.md](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/agents.md). --- # Senior/Principal R&D Computer Engineer - Embedded Systems, Onsite - **Company:** Sandia Corporation - **Location:** Albuquerque, NM, United States (Remote available) - **Experience:** Expert - **Salary:** $117,500.0 - $235,700.0 - **Contract:** Temporary contract - **Skills:** C++ (Programming Language), Client Server Models, Compilers, Code Review, Cyber Security, Computer Programming, Computer Networks, Computer Engineering, Distributed Computing Environment, Embedded C, Firmware, Systems Theories, Hardware Design, Network Architecture, Real-Time Operating Systems, Reverse Engineering, Serial Communications, Software Engineering, Software Requirements Analysis, Software Systems, Wi-Fi Technology, PIC Microcontroller, Hardware Testing, Information Technology, Vulnerability Analysis, Programming Languages - **Published:** August 5, 2026 - **Apply:** https://diversityjobs.com/main/sendform/8/8/28176/1/17862103?backUrl=%2Fcareer%2F17862103%2FSenior-Principal-R-D-Computer-Engineer-Embedded-Systems-Onsite-New-Mexico-Albuquerque ## About the Role * A Bachelor's degree in a relevant discipline and five (5) years of directly relevant experience, or an equivalent combination of directly relevant education and engineering or scientific experience that demonstrates the knowledge, skills, and ability to perform independent research and development. * Ability to obtain and maintain a DOE Q and SCI clearance which may require a polygraph test., The ideal R&D Computer Engineering candidate for Sandia National Laboratories will in addition possess the following: * Graduate degree in Computer Engineering or a highly related field where an independent research project was a graduation requirement (e.g., independent project, thesis, or dissertation). * Demonstrated ability to execute and deliver technical work products with application of appropriate rigor and pedigree documentation (design/code reviews, technical oversight/approvals, project team concurrence, artifact generation, etc.). * Experience in computer systems design and software development for real-time and embedded processing systems, distributed processing systems, or real-time client server implementations. * Familiarity with hardware/software requirements generation for verification, validation and qualification. * Demonstrated interpersonal skills and ability to work in a multidisciplinary, multi-disciplinary team setting for a common purpose. Also, for this posting we are seeking individuals with the following experience: * Experience in embedded system design, hardware design, testing, and evaluation and/or programming. * Experience in one or more of the following areas: reverse engineering, software vulnerability assessment, computer networking, computer architecture, compilers, or related computer security disciplines. * Demonstrated experience in a subset of the following: + Circuit design fundamentals and interpretation of hardware schematics + Embedded systems development using microcontrollers or digital signal processors (embedded C/C++ and real-time operating systems) + Proficiency in C or other programming languages + Networking architectures and protocols, including serial communication interfaces + Design, development, and testing of electrical or electronic systems + Use of laboratory diagnostics and testing equipment for hardware validation + Software development methodologies and best practices * Strong communication skills with a proven ability to clearly articulate technical concepts and results in both written and oral formats, tailored to diverse audiences. ## Description Are you an Electrical or Computer Engineer driven to apply cutting-edge technologies toward impactful national security challenges? Join the Systems Research Department at Sandia's Integrated Threat Intelligence Center, where we specialize in vulnerability assessments, forward and reverse engineering of embedded systems, and the development of innovative tools supporting unique national security missions. As a motivated R&D Engineer with expertise in embedded systems, you will collaborate within a multidisciplinary environment and partner across Sandia. Our work spans the complete embedded systems lifecycle - from initial concept and design through fabrication, firmware and software development, to rigorous testing and deployment - focusing on innovative, low-power solutions. Our expertise covers a diverse range of technologies, including embedded systems, mobile devices, IoT, Wi-Fi systems, and networked devices. If you are passionate about end-to-end embedded system engineering and eager to make a difference through technology innovation, we invite you to apply. On any given day, you may be expected to: * Perform reverse engineering and vulnerability assessments on embedded systems to identify and mitigate potential risks. * Design, develop, and integrate hardware and software solutions that meet mission-critical requirements. * Create comprehensive test plans and execute rigorous testing protocols to validate novel system capabilities. * Communicate technical progress and findings effectively to mission partners and interdisciplinary colleagues. * Collaborate closely with electrical, computer, and software engineers to innovate and refine approaches that advance key mission objectives. * Take initiative to lead technical thrusts in specific areas of embedded systems development, driving strategy, execution, and team coordination to deliver impactful results. Due to the nature of the work, the selected applicant must be able to work onsite. Salary Range $117,500 - $235,700, The Systems Research Department specializes in vulnerability assessments and research, as well as forward/reverse engineering embedded systems. We develop tools to support a variety of unique national security missions. Our expertise encompasses a diverse range of technologies, including embedded systems, mobile devices, IoT, Wi-Fi systems, and networked devices. Posting Duration This posting will be open for application submissions for a minimum of three (3) calendar days, including the 'posting date'. Sandia reserves the right to extend the posting date at any time. Security Clearance Sandia is required by DOE to conduct a pre-employment drug test and background review that includes checks of personal references, credit, law enforcement records, and employment/education verifications. Applicants for employment need to be able to obtain and maintain a DOE Q-level security clearance and SCI access, both of which require US citizenship. SCI access may also require a polygraph examination. If you hold more than one citizenship (i.e., of the U.S. and another country), your ability to obtain these levels of access may be impacted. Applicants offered employment with Sandia are subject to a federal background investigation to meet the requirements for access to classified information or matter if the duties of the position require a DOE security clearance. Substance abuse or illegal drug use, falsification of information, criminal activity, serious misconduct or other indicators of untrustworthiness can cause a clearance to be denied or terminated by the DOE, resulting in the inability to perform the duties assigned and subsequent termination of employment. EEO All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, or veteran status and any other protected class under state or federal law. NNSA Requirements for MedPEDs If you have a Medical Portable Electronic Device (MedPED), such as a pacemaker, defibrillator, drug-releasing pump, hearing aids, or diagnostic equipment and other equipment for measuring, monitoring, and recording body functions such as heartbeat and brain waves, if employed by Sandia National Laboratories you may be required to comply with NNSA security requirements for MedPEDs. ## Related Videos - [Security Pitfalls for Software Engineers](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/726-security-pitfalls-for-software-engineers) - [Cyber Security: Small, and Large!](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/259-cyber-security-small-and-large) - [Just-in-time Compilation in JVM](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/240-just-in-time-compilation-in-jvm) - [Playing Pong on a shoulder press machine](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/100140-playing-pong-on-a-shoulder-press-machine) - [When Agents Meet Legacy: Never Change a Running System](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/100320-when-agents-meet-legacy-never-change-a-running-system) - [Agent Smith Gets Hardware: Autonomous IoT Hacking From Debug Port to Cloud API](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/100258-agent-smith-gets-hardware-autonomous-iot-hacking-from-debug-port-to-cloud-api) ## Related Articles - [Is Software Engineering Over-Saturated?](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/418-is-software-engineering-over-saturated) - [Where to Find Entry-Level Software Engineering Jobs](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/397-where-to-find-entry-level-software-engineering-jobs) - [Best Countries for Software Engineers](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/267-best-countries-for-software-engineers) - [Résumé-Driven Development: How IT trends affect the job market for software developers](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/59-resume-driven-development-how-it-trends-affect-the-job-market-for-software-developers) - [Fully Remote Software Engineer Jobs](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/447-fully-remote-software-engineer-jobs) - [Top 6 Hackathons for Developers in 2023](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/263-top-6-hackathons-for-developers-in-2023)