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Agent guide: [/agents.md](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/agents.md). --- # Firmware Engineer - **Company:** MOTIVO PARTNERS LLC - **Location:** Compton, United States - **Experience:** Expert - **Salary:** $110,000.0 - $130,000.0 - **Contract:** Permanent contract - **Skills:** Systems Engineering, C++ (Programming Language), CANopen, Code Review, Communications Protocols, Computer Engineering, Software Debugging, Embedded Software, Ethernet, Fault Tolerance, Firmware, Hardware-In-The-Loop Simulation, PID Controllers, Real-Time Operating Systems, Systems Architecture, Systems Integration, Data Processing, Safety Critical Systems, State Machines, Information Technology, Bare Metal, DO-178B - **Published:** September 4, 2026 - **Apply:** https://startup.jobs/firmware-engineer-motivo-8308705 ## About the Role * Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, Mechatronics, or a related field. * 7+ years of professional experience in embedded software development (C/C++) for real-time, safety-critical systems. * Deep understanding of motor control theory, real-time servo control, and PID loop tuning. * Hands-on experience interfacing with COTS motor controllers and implementing CANopen (or similar fieldbus protocols). * Experience with feedback sensor processing (resolvers, encoders) and digital signal filtering. * Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to effectively collaborate with hardware teams and external clients. * A passion for innovation and a desire to work in a fast-paced, dynamic environment. Preferred * Master of Science in a relevant engineering discipline. * Experience in industries such as aerospace, electric vehicles (EV), or robotics. * Familiarity with aerospace software standards (e.g., DO-178C) or automotive standards (e.g., ISO 26262). * Experience with hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) testing frameworks. * A portfolio of successfully launched products featuring custom embedded motor control. ## Description We are looking for a passionate, enthusiastic multidisciplinary engineer, capable of leading the technical decision-making process in electro-mechanical projects that require a solid system architecture. Motivo is a project-based product development company focused on designing systems containing mechanical, electrical, and software components. Our programs typically span from clean-sheet design through prototype validation, though we occasionally shepherd our clients through to the start of production as well. We develop products for diverse market segments, including mobility/automotive, medical/health/fitness, industrial automation, energy storage and conversion, aerospace, consumer devices, and more. We are the secret weapon behind many early-stage startups seeking to develop their first product, as well as Fortune 500 R&D branches looking to innovate on their next flagship product. What is a Firmware Engineer at Motivo? At Motivo, Firmware Engineers are highly valued and versatile team members. They are the linchpin in executing complex embedded software projects from concept to validation. We look for creative problem-solvers with a keen eye for detail and the ability to balance competing priorities. Working closely with a Project Manager, Electrical Engineers, and Systems Engineers, a Firmware Engineer guides focused engineering teams through the initial phases of product development. This involves: * Planning technical and programmatic aspects of embedded software architecture. * Defining and reviewing complete bare-metal or RTOS system architectures. * Identifying and managing software risks, especially regarding real-time constraints and fault handling. * Identifying key communication protocols and feedback sensor strategies. * Leading technical teams to successful software integration and project completion. In later phases, you'll lead brainstorms, conduct code reviews, provide technical guidance, and assist with debugging and troubleshooting during hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) testing and validation & verification (V&V) activities. An ideal candidate possesses a strong understanding of control theory, MCU interfacing, and motor control to effectively communicate and understand hardware-software interactions. This role is perfect for an incredibly sharp engineer with an insatiable curiosity for all aspects of engineering!, As a Firmware Engineer, you will: * Architect and write bare-metal or RTOS-based firmware (C/C++) for custom MCUs to manage real-time motor control. * Design, implement, and tune PID control loops (position, velocity, torque) for precise actuation across single and dual-motor configurations (500W to 5000W). * Develop robust communication interfaces between the custom MCU and COTS motor drive PCBs, utilizing protocols such as CANopen, CAN-FD, or Ethernet. * Integrate, calibrate, and process data from high-resolution feedback sensors (e.g., resolvers, absolute/incremental encoders, Hall effect sensors). * Implement state machines and diagnostic routines to ensure fail-safe operation, supporting 1-motor vs. 2-motor redundancy architectures and fault-tolerant communication. * Partner with Hardware EEs to test MCU-to-COTS drive integrations, participating in hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) testing and dynamometer/test-stand validation. * Foster a culture of technical excellence and robust software V&V processes. ## Related Videos - [Building a hypercar from scratch](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/607-building-a-hypercar-from-scratch) - [The Gashlycrumb Tinies of AI Networking You Must Know (or Languish!)](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/2067-the-gashlycrumb-tinies-of-ai-networking-you-must-know-or-languish) - [Car's are Technology on Wheels - Impact of Software and IT Competence in Automotive](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/780-car-s-are-technology-on-wheels-impact-of-software-and-it-competence-in-automotive) - [Docker network without Docker](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/1418-docker-network-without-docker) - [Software stack under and over the hood of the fastest accelerating car in the world](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/221-software-stack-under-and-over-the-hood-of-the-fastest-accelerating-car-in-the-world) - [The best of two worlds - Bringing enterprise-grade Linux to the vehicle](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/67-the-best-of-two-worlds-bringing-enterprise-grade-linux-to-the-vehicle) ## Related Articles - [How software is steering vehicle technology](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/515-how-software-is-steering-vehicle-technology) - [What is Software Engineering?](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/289-what-is-software-engineering) - [Software Engineer Career: Things You Should Know](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/143-software-engineer-career-things-you-should-know) - [Is Software Engineering Hard?](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/448-is-software-engineering-hard) - [How We Built a Worry-Free System That Runs for 10+ Years – And What We’d Do Again](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/751-how-we-built-a-worry-free-system-that-runs-for-10-years-and-what-we-d-do-again) - [Fully Remote Software Engineer Jobs](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/447-fully-remote-software-engineer-jobs)