Principal Embedded Systems Engineer – Air Systems

As a Principal Embedded Systems Engineer – Air Systems at Orb Aerospace, your key responsibilities will encompass managing requirements for low SWaP system designs, including sensor selection and placement, PCB design, and mechanical integration. You'll also oversee materials sourcing, supply chain awareness, firmware and software engineering, and thorough hardware and firmware testing.

Desired qualifications for the Principal Embedded Systems Engineer role at Orb Aerospace include a Bachelor's or Master's degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or an equivalent field. Additionally, candidates should have a minimum of 7 years of experience in programming languages such as C/C++, Rust, and Python, specifically with an emphasis on Rust.

Key skills for the Principal Embedded Systems Engineer position at Orb Aerospace involve proficiency in embedded microcontroller systems, motor control, lithium battery systems, and sensor interfacing. Candidates must also possess a strong background in EMI considerations, control theory, and wireless communication, along with the ability to read electrical schematics and troubleshoot independently using test equipment.

At Orb Aerospace, the work environment is dynamic and mission-driven, focusing on high autonomy and innovative thinking. As a Principal Embedded Systems Engineer, you will be expected to take initiative and manage multiple critical projects within a collaborative atmosphere where curiosity, integrity, and a passion for serving others thrive.

The Principal Embedded Systems Engineer role at Orb Aerospace offers a competitive salary alongside a standard benefits package that includes a monthly flat rate for medical, dental, and vision coverage, 401K options with an employer match, and unique perks such as support in obtaining your pilot's license and continued education assistance.

In your response, you should discuss the importance of low SWaP, which stands for Size, Weight, and Power. Explain that these considerations are essential for designing efficient embedded systems, particularly in aerospace applications where space and energy resources are limited. Sharing examples from past experience can also strengthen your answer.

When answering, emphasize your hands-on experience with Rust, particularly in the context of firmware development for embedded systems. Share specific projects or challenges you've faced, demonstrating your proficiency and how Rust's features are beneficial for low-level programming in embedded environments.

Your answer should address factors such as memory management, real-time operating constraints, power consumption, and code efficiency. Illustrate how these elements impact system performance and reliability, providing examples of how you've implemented design considerations in past projects.

In your response, outline your systematic approach to debugging—including the use of oscilloscopes, multimeters, and logic analyzers. Include an example where you successfully identified and solved a complex issue, highlighting your critical thinking and analytical skills.

Here, focus on the types of sensors you've worked with, how you handled interfacing them with microcontrollers, and any experience you have with sensor fusion algorithms. Sharing an example of a project where sensor accuracy significantly affected outcomes can showcase your expertise.

Answer this by discussing your prioritization strategies, project management tools, and communication techniques used to keep teams aligned. Illustrating with past experiences where you effectively handled competing deadlines can greatly strengthen your response.

Respond with the processes you follow to assess and mitigate electro-magnetic interference and fields, such as using shielding techniques and proper layout practices. Provide an example from your experience where you successfully implemented these practices in a complex design.

Discuss your understanding of supply chain dynamics, vendor relationships, and material selection criteria. Including any specific software tools you use for sourcing and tracking components can lend credibility to your answer.

When addressing this question, mention conferences, seminars, online courses, and relevant literature you engage with regularly. Sharing specific articles or thought leaders you follow can illustrate your dedication to professional development.

Here, narrate a specific project challenge detailing the obstacles faced and the steps you took to overcome them. Highlighting your problem-solving skills and teamwork can demonstrate your ability to navigate complex engineering environments.