Associate Embedded Software Engineer Jobs in Tucson, AZ

Title: Embedded Software Engineer
Location: Tucson, AZ
GuideTech, a subsidiary of Palladyne AI, builds high-performance avionics and autonomy software for aerospace, space, and defense systems. We support a wide array of vehicles, from small multi-rotors, heavy lift UAVs, unmanned fighter jets, launch vehicles, spacecraft, re-entry vehicles, missiles and counter-UAS interceptors.
Our BRAIN flight computer pairs an NVIDIA Jetson Orin autonomy module with a Zynq-7000 real-time module for flight-critical Guidance/Navigation/Control, sensors, and I/O. Interfaces include RS-422/485, USB 3.0, HDMI, GigE, PWM/DSHOT, RS422, SPI, I2C, CAN, MIPI, PCIe, and more, with a hardware safety watchdog and triple-redundant IMUs.
We outsource PCB fabrication and SMT assembly, and perform in-house inspection, bring-up, test, and final assembly of our board stack-so you'll see designs through to working hardware. We also leverage hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) flight simulation with our FLEX software and simulation to accelerate integration & test.
Palladyne AI (NASDAQ: PDYN) is an AI software company on a mission to automate physically demanding work that has historically been "too complex to automate." With more than thirty years of robotics R&D - including during our time under Raytheon - we've developed advanced AI and ML software that enables robots to observe, learn, reason, and act with human-like intelligence.
ABOUT THE ROLE
We're seeking an embedded software developer who is a master with C++ to write efficient, reliable code that runs directly on hardware such as microcontrollers or embedded processors. You may develop firmware to control device behavior, manage memory carefully, and optimize performance within limited CPU and power constraints. The work often involves interfacing with hardware components like sensors, actuators, and communication buses. You may also debug and test software using simulators, debuggers, and hardware tools to ensure stability and real-time responsiveness.
WHAT YOU'LL NEED
• C/C++ required, embedded applications strongly preferred
• Zynq/ARM platforms and AMD/Xilinx environment (Vivado, Vitis) strongly preferred
• Experience with UARTs, I2C, SDLC, CAN, and SPI interfaces preferred
• Python, C#, and Linux shell scripting preferred
• Test equipment experience (Oscilloscopes, Logic Analyzers) preferred
• VHDL desired
• Soldering experience (cables/harnessing, surface mount components) desired
ABOUT YOU
• Strong communicator across in-person conversations, email, and technical documentation
• Flexible and open to new challenges, approaches, and evolving priorities
• Collaborative and productive within geographically distributed teams
• Future-focused mindset - sees possibilities where others see problems and pursue ambitious goals
• Practices direct, transparent communication while listening with empathy and valuing diverse perspectives
• Builds connections internally and externally to learn, innovate, and inspire
• Takes ownership of decisions and holds self-accountable for delivering results
• Motivates and engages others to exceed expectations through coaching, empowerment, and continuous development
COMPENSATION PHILOSOPHY
We believe providing employees with competitive pay and a range of meaningful benefits is the start of creating a culture where people want to give the best they've got - not because they're simply making money, but because they've fallen in love with our vision, mission, values, and team.
During the interview process, your Recruiter will review our total rewards (base, potential equity, bonus, perks, benefit, culture). The final offer is determined by your proficiencies within our leveling.
CULTURE
Our culture is built on trust, integrity, and a shared commitment to a mission greater than ourselves. As a government contractor supporting national security, public safety, and critical technologies, we operate with accountability, professionalism, and pride in doing things the right way. We believe exceptional results come from exceptional people, and we foster a collaborative environment where diverse perspectives are valued, high ethical standards are upheld, and every employee is empowered to grow, contribute, and make a meaningful impact.
THE FINE PRINT
No 3rd party candidates will be accepted
It is Palladyne AI's policy to provide equal employment opportunity (EEO) to all persons regardless of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, physical or mental disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state/provincial, local law.