Firmware Engineer

**About Motivo**

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!

**Key Responsibilities**

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.

**Required Qualifications**

• 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.

**Benefits**

We’re convinced that the team and the projects are hands-down the best part of working at Motivo. To support that, we offer a solid benefits package including high-quality insurance, a 401(k) match, generous vacation time, and our Monday–Thursday 4/10 work week. We offer profit-sharing bonuses, which are tied to overall company performance, because we believe in winning together; we’re transparent about the company’s numbers, and when our hard work drives financial success, employees may share in the upside.

Base Salary Range:$110,000 - $130,000

Salary is dependent on experience, knowledge and interview performance.