Embedded Software Engineer - GCS

About this role

About Us Harmattan AI is a next-generation defense prime building autonomous and scalable defense systems. Following the close of a $200M Series B, valuing the company at $1.4 billion, we are expanding our teams and capabilities to deliver mission-critical systems to allied forces. Our work is guided by clear values: building technologies with real-world impact, pursuing excellence in everything we do, setting ambitious goals, and taking on the hardest technical challenges.

We operate in a demanding environment where rigor, ownership, and execution are expected. About the Role As an Embedded Software Engineer on Harmattan AI’s GCS (Ground Control System) module, you’ll develop the firmware and low-level software that powers our next-generation handheld UAV controllers. This includes real-time handling of inputs (joysticks, buttons, touchscreens), communication with the UAV, power management, and overall system responsiveness.

Your code will bring to life a reliable, intuitive, and mission-ready operator experience. Responsibilities Develop embedded firmware for custom handheld ground stations, integrating displays, input devices, wireless modules, and battery systems. Implement the interface with the radio link. Optimize system performance for responsiveness, power efficiency, and thermal constraints. Collaborate closely with electrical and mechanical engineers to ensure seamless hardware-software integration.

Conduct field validation and debugging under realistic mission scenarios. Write clean, maintainable, and production-ready code with a focus on long-term system stability. Participate in architectural decisions to scale the firmware platform as the GCS product line evolves. Candidate Requirements Education: Master’s in Embedded Systems, Computer Engineering, or equivalent. Strong experience in embedded C/C++ and real-time firmware development.

Proficient with CPU, MCU, (experience with ARM is a strong plus), hardware abstraction layers, and protocols like SPI, I2C, UART. Experience with embedded Linux Familiarity with wireless comms integration (e.g., LoRa, Wi-Fi, LTE, custom RF) is a plus. Bonus: Experience building handheld or ruggedized control systems in defense, aerospace, or robotics. Problem-Solving: Ability to work autonomously and solve complex technical challenges.