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Embedded Linux Contract Jobs in Boston, MA (NOW HIRING)

Redhat

Software Engineer

Boston, MA · On-site +1

$181K - $299K/yr

... programming; embedded systems and hardware enablement of these systems; cryptography and ... Linux, cloud, container, and Kubernetes technologies. Spread across 40+ countries, our associates ...

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All JobsEmbedded Linux Contract JobsEmbedded Linux Contract Jobs in Boston, MA

Embedded Linux Contract information

See Boston, MA salary details

$91.3K

$146.5K

$205.9K

How much do embedded linux contract jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for embedded linux contract in Boston, MA is $146,532.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $118,400.00 and $174,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an Embedded Linux Contract job?

An Embedded Linux Contract job is a temporary or project-based position where a professional develops, maintains, or customizes Linux-based systems for embedded devices. These roles typically involve working with hardware interfaces, kernel development, driver programming, and real-time system optimization. Contracts vary in duration and can be with companies developing products like IoT devices, automotive systems, or industrial controllers. Contractors may work independently or as part of a team, often requiring strong expertise in C/C++, Yocto, and Linux internals.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Embedded Linux Contract position, and why are they important?

To excel as an Embedded Linux Contract professional, you need strong proficiency in embedded C/C++, Linux kernel and device driver development, and hardware-software integration, often backed by a degree in Computer Engineering or a related field. Familiarity with development tools such as Git, cross-compilers, Yocto Project, and board support packages is highly valued, as are certifications like LFCE or Linux Foundation Certified Engineer. Excellent problem-solving skills, self-motivation, and clear communication are crucial, especially when working remotely or with cross-functional teams. These skills ensure you can efficiently deliver high-quality, reliable solutions that meet the complex requirements of embedded systems projects.

What are the typical day-to-day responsibilities for someone in an Embedded Linux Contract position?

In an Embedded Linux Contract role, your daily tasks usually involve developing and debugging embedded software, integrating hardware drivers, and ensuring system reliability on targeted hardware platforms. You may also collaborate with hardware engineers to resolve integration challenges and participate in code reviews to maintain high standards. Additionally, responsibilities often include configuring build systems, writing documentation, and working closely with QA teams to address issues. The work is usually project-based, and you can expect a blend of independent problem-solving and teamwork, often in a remote or flexible work environment.

What are the most commonly searched types of Embedded Linux jobs in Boston, MA? The most popular types of Embedded Linux jobs in Boston, MA are:
What are popular job titles related to Embedded Linux Contract jobs in Boston, MA? For Embedded Linux Contract jobs in Boston, MA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Embedded Linux Contract jobs in Boston, MA look for? The top searched job categories for Embedded Linux Contract jobs in Boston, MA are:
What cities near Boston, MA are hiring for Embedded Linux Contract jobs? Cities near Boston, MA with the most Embedded Linux Contract job openings:
Embedded Linux Contract jobs near you
Infographic showing various Embedded Linux Contract job openings in Boston, MA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 24% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 58% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $146,532 per year, or $70.4 per hour.
Senior Software Engineer, Autonomous Pilot Integration (R5200)

Senior Software Engineer, Autonomous Pilot Integration (R5200)

Shield AI

Boston, MA

$133K - $175K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 6 days ago

Job description

Founded in 2015, Shield AI is a venture-backed defense-tech company with the mission of protecting service members and civilians with intelligent systems. Its products include Hivemind autonomy software and V-BAT and X-BAT aircraft. With offices and facilities across the U.S., Europe, the Middle East, and Asia-Pacific, Shield AI's technology actively supports operations worldwide. For more information, visit www.shield.ai. Follow Shield AI on LinkedIn, X, Instagram, and YouTube. 

The Autonomous Pilot Integration team builds autonomy solutions for a wide range of CONOPs and mission sets. We combine capabilities from the Autonomy Capabilities team (motion planning, tactics), the Perception team (e.g., track fusion), and the HivemindSDK to develop the autonomy software that runs on an unmanned platform - air, maritime, space, or effects/expendables, depending on the program - then integrate, validate, and field it on the real hardware. In this role, you'll write new autonomy code - such as mission behaviors, platform-specific control, multi-agent coordination, contingencies, and executive autonomy - and own it end-to-end from software-in-the-loop, to hardware-in-the-loop, to vehicle-in-the-loop, to live test exercise. You'll partner closely with the Autonomy Capabilities and Perception teams, feature crews, and external platform integrators (vehicle/autopilot control vendors, C2 providers). It's a hands-on role for engineers who like seeing their code operate in the real world - whether that's flying, sailing, orbiting, or downrange - and want to be there when it does. 

Shield AI is committed to developing cutting-edge autonomy for unmanned platforms across every operating domain - air, maritime, space, and effects/expendables - in service of the U.S. Department of Defense and our international defense customers. Our Autonomous Pilot Integration engineers bridge the gap between R&D and deployment, ensuring autonomous systems function reliably and effectively wherever and whenever they're needed most. 

What You'll Do:

  • Develop & Field Autonomy - Develop & integrate autonomy software solutions onto unmanned platforms (air, maritime, space, or effects/expendables), including payload computer bring-up, container-based deployment (e.g., k3s/k3d), and configuration across onboard compute, sensors, and command-and-control interfaces. 

  • Collaboration Across Teams - Work closely with the Autonomy Capabilities team (motion planning, tactics), the Perception team, feature crews, and external partners (platform integrators, vehicle/autopilot control vendors, C2 providers) to deliver and validate mission-critical functionality on time. 

  • Pre-deployment Preparation - Own the build, configuration, and validation process for mission-ready systems; coordinate hardware/software compatibility, mission readiness, and release cadence with capability and feature teams. 

  • On-site Test & Mission Support - Travel to test sites and support live mission operations (flight tests, range exercises, on-water trials, integration events), including safety checks, system bring-up, and troubleshooting under time-critical constraints. 

  • Hardware/Software Debugging - Diagnose and resolve integration issues across complex autonomy stacks, payload computers, and embedded systems in lab and field environments - including memory, CPU, and timing profiling under operationally-representative loads. 

  • Mission Data & Debrief Support - Capture mission and test data, reproduce issues in simulation, and partner with autonomy capability owners to drive fixes back into the next build. 

  • Continuous Improvement - Build tools and processes to improve integration timelines, test/mission reliability, and team efficiency across deployment cycles. 

  • C2 Interoperability & Standards - Implement and validate compliance with command-and-control standards (e.g., A-GRA, UCI, OMS) and coordinate with C2 providers on interface contracts and integration milestones. 

  • Travel Requirement - Members of this team typically travel around 10-20% of the year (to different office locations, customer sites, and integration/test events). 

Required Qualifications:

  • BS/MS in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, and/or similar degree, or equivalent practical experience 

  • Typically requires a minimum of 5 years of related experience with a Bachelor's degree; or 4 years and a Master's degree; or 2 years with a PhD; or equivalent work experience. 

  • Proficiency in C++, with experience developing or integrating real-time or latency-sensitive systems. 

  • Proficiency in Linux-based development and experience working with embedded systems, shell scripting, and system diagnostics. 

  • Familiarity with middleware, pub-sub, or IPC frameworks used in autonomy or robotics systems (e.g., DDS, ActiveMQ). 

  • Hands-on experience supporting demos, exercises, or field/mission tests for unmanned or autonomous systems. 

  • Experience with autonomy simulation environments for testing and validation. 

  • Strong problem-solving skills, with the ability to troubleshoot and optimize system performance across the full stack. 

  • Excellent communication and teamwork skills, with the ability to work effectively in a collaborative, multidisciplinary environment. 

  • Ability to obtain a SECRET clearance. 

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Direct experience supporting uncrewed systems (air, maritime, space, ground, or effects/expendables) or similar field test campaigns. 

  • Proficiency in Python for scripting, automation, and analysis. 

  • Familiarity with autonomy stacks, motion planning, or vehicle-control integration. 

  • Competence in vehicle electronics bring-up (avionics, spacecraft buses, or vessel control), payload computer integration, or hardware-in-the-loop debugging. 

  • Experience with container orchestration (e.g., k3s, k3d, Docker) on embedded or payload compute. 

  • Familiarity with platform control / autopilot stacks (e.g., PX4, ArduPilot, spacecraft flight software, vessel autopilots). 

  • Proficiency in developing automation tools for system testing, logging, and data parsing. 

  • Build-system experience (e.g., Conan, CMake) and CI/CD pipeline familiarity. 

  • Comfortable interfacing with DoD stakeholders during field events or technical reviews. 

  • Experience with C2 standards such as A-GRA, UCI, or OMS. 

  • Familiarity with government-furnished simulation environments (e.g., AFSIM, NGTS) is a plus. 

$160,000 - $240,000 a year
#LI-ED1
#LC

Full-time regular employee offer package:
Pay within range listed + Bonus + Benefits + Equity
 
Temporary employee offer package:
Pay within range listed above + temporary benefits package (applicable after 60 days of employment)
 
Salary compensation is influenced by a wide array of factors including but not limited to skill set, level of experience, licenses and certifications, and specific work location. All offers are contingent on a cleared background and possible reference check. Military fellows and part-time employees are not eligible for benefits. Please speak to your talent acquisition representative for more information.
 
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Shield AI is proud to be an equal opportunity workplace and is an affirmative action employer. We are committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of race, color, ancestry, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, marital status, disability, gender identity or Veteran status. If you have a disability or special need that requires accommodation, please let us know. 
We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses and identifying potential inconsistencies or verification signals in application materials based on available information. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.
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