Freelance Embedded Software Engineer Jobs in Denver, CO

Location: Westminster, Colorado

Compensation: $102,000 - 136,000 USD / year

At CesiumAstro, we are developers and pioneers of out-of-the-box communication systems for satellites, UAVs, launch vehicles, and other space and airborne platforms. We take pride in our dynamic and cross-functional work environment, which allows us to learn, develop, and engage across our organization. If you are looking for hands-on, interactive, and autonomous work, CesiumAstro is the place for you. We are actively seeking passionate, collaborative, energetic, and forward-thinking individuals to join our team.

The Skylark product line is focused on the rapid design, build, and test of cutting-edge active phased array antennas (AESA) for terrestrial and airborne applications. Current programs span high-power, large-scale ground terminals for missile defense to commercial airline and helicopter connectivity solutions.

The Embedded Software Engineer II supports the development of embedded software for aerospace communications and defense systems. This role applies established engineering principles and development processes to design, implement, and integrate software for embedded Linux platforms. Working under the guidance of senior engineers or engineering management, the engineer contributes to the software development lifecycle including implementation, integration, testing, and qualification. Responsibilities include developing embedded Linux applications, device drivers, and supporting libraries, as well as assisting with kernel customization, bootloaders, and board bring-up. The role collaborates with cross-functional engineering teams to support system performance, integration, and delivery of reliable embedded software solutions.

• Develop and port embedded Linux applications, device drivers, and software libraries for embedded computing platforms.


• Configure, customize, and integrate Linux kernels and embedded bootloaders such as U-Boot.


• Assist with board bring-up and software enablement activities for new embedded hardware platforms.


• Develop and maintain tailored Linux distributions for specific embedded applications.


• Implement software features and modifications that meet system performance and functional requirements.


• Support software design implementation, debugging, and testing activities throughout the development lifecycle.


• Contribute to reusable software components and maintainable software architecture within defined system frameworks.


• Analyze and resolve moderately complex technical issues related to embedded software, operating systems, or hardware/software integration.


• Collaborate with hardware, firmware, FPGA, and systems engineering teams to support system integration and performance.


• Support debugging and troubleshooting activities during development, integration, and qualification phases.


• Evaluate system logs, test outputs, and diagnostic data to identify root causes of technical issues.


• Support verification and validation activities to ensure software meets system requirements and engineering standards.


• Document technical findings, software updates, and engineering decisions according to program documentation standards.


• Maintain and enhance the Yocto-based Linux build system used for embedded software development.


• Support CI/CD pipelines used for automated software builds and releases.


• Package and deploy software images across multiple embedded hardware platforms.


• Participate in design reviews and engineering discussions supporting program objectives.


• Contribute to software configuration management and version control practices.


• Assist in preparation of engineering documentation such as software design descriptions, test procedures, and technical reports.


• Provide technical input for internal engineering reviews and program milestones.

• Bachelor's degree in Software Engineering, Computer Engineering, or relevant field.


• 2–5 years of relevant software engineering experience.


• Knowledge of embedded Linux systems and software development practices.


• Experience developing device drivers, embedded applications, or low-level system software.


• Familiarity with Linux kernel configuration and customization.


• Understanding of bootloader functionality and system initialization processes.


• Experience using Yocto or similar embedded Linux build systems.


• Familiarity with board bring-up and hardware/software integration activities.


• Ability to troubleshoot embedded software issues using debugging and diagnostic tools.


• Understanding of software development lifecycle practices used in aerospace or defense environments.


• Ability to interpret system requirements, technical specifications, and hardware documentation.


• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and technical communication skills.


• Ability to perform detailed software analysis and troubleshooting of embedded systems.


• Ability to concentrate on complex software development tasks requiring logical reasoning and precision.


• Ability to review and interpret technical documentation and engineering specifications.


• Ability to work in office, laboratory, or engineering development environments.


• Ability to manage multiple engineering tasks within defined program timelines.


• Ability to collaborate effectively with multidisciplinary engineering teams.

$102,000 - $136,000 a year

CesiumAstro considers several factors when extending an offer, including but not limited to, the role and associated responsibilities, a candidate's work experience, education/training, and key skills. Full-time employment offers include company stock options and a generous benefits package including health, dental, vision, HSA, FSA, life, disability and retirement plans.

CesiumAstro is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, protected Veteran Status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.

Please note: CesiumAstro does not accept unsolicited resumes from contract agencies or search firms. Any unsolicited resumes submitted to our website or to CesiumAstro team members will be considered property of CesiumAstro, and we will not be obligated to pay any referral fees.