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Senior Embedded Systems Engineer

Scientific Applications & Research Associates, Inc. (SARA) is a world-class Defense Research and Development enterprise, with a charter to create new and emerging technological innovations in support of Commercial & Government organizations. We have expertise in RF, EMP, Pulsed Power, Acoustics, and Threat Warning Systems, and we prioritize partnering with our customers to address real-world problems with cost-effective solutions… that work.

The SARA High Power Electromagnetics Division (HPEM) is looking for a highly experienced Senior Embedded Systems Engineer to lead the design, research, development, integration, and transition of advanced digital systems and embedded technologies for DoD and DoE programs out of our Colorado Springs, CO location. This role is ideal for an engineer who thrives at the intersection of firmware, hardware, and system architecture, and who enjoys taking systems from concept through deployment. Our small group will allow the candidate to experience, contribute, and collaborate in a multidisciplinary nature from conception all the way through to operation. This is not a narrow coding role. This is a build-the-system, own-the-outcome role.

Core Responsibilities:

• Architect and develop embedded firmware systems across bare-metal and RTOS environments
• Develop FPGA and programmable logic solutions using Verilog or VHDL
• Support full FPGA development lifecycle including architecture, simulation, synthesis, timing closure, hardware integration, and debugging
• Lead board bring-up, hardware integration, and system-level debugging efforts
• Design and implement solutions spanning:
  • Microcontrollers, embedded processors, and FPGA-based systems
  • Real-time data acquisition and control systems
  • Communication interfaces (wired and wireless)
• Drive system architecture decisions, including hardware/software partitioning
• Develop and support automated test systems, validation strategies, and sustainment solutions
• Collaborate across multidisciplinary teams (hardware, RF, physics, test, and software)
• Provide technical leadership and mentorship to junior engineers
• Interface with customers and stakeholders on technical solutions and program execution
• Contribute to Windows-based tools and interfaces for system control, testing, and diagnostics

Requirements:

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or related field
• 12 - 15 years of experience in embedded systems / firmware development
• Deep expertise in:
  • C/C++ (embedded and systems-level programming)
  • Real-time and embedded operating systems (e.g., VxWorks, FreeRTOS, or similar)
  • Bare-metal firmware development
• Strong experience with:
  • Hardware interfaces (SPI, I2C, UART, Ethernet, RF communications)
  • Board-level debugging using oscilloscopes, logic analyzers, and lab equipment
  • System integration and troubleshooting across hardware and software boundaries
• Strong understanding of digital signal processing, data acquisition, or real-time processing systems
• Demonstrated experience in system design and architecture
• U.S. Citizen with the ability to obtain and maintain a Top Secret clearance
• Working environment may require Moderate physical effort, including standing, sitting, and use of hands while performing duties, and carrying or lifting up to 30 pounds
• Working environment is indoor, moderately loud, reasonably clean, well-lit, and well-ventilated; moderate physical hazards may exist

Preferred Qualifications:

• Master's degree in relevant field
• 16+ years of experience in embedded systems / firmware development
• Experience with FPGA or programmable logic systems
• Experience with Zynq or heterogeneous processing systems
• Background in data acquisition systems, signal processing, or high-speed communications
• Experience developing automated test systems and diagnostic platforms
• Familiarity with battery-powered / low-power system design
• Experience with Windows-based application development (C#, C++, or similar)
• Prior technical leadership, project engineering, or team lead experience
• Active Top Secret clearance

SARA Offers a Competitive Benefits Package to Include:

• Medical, dental, vision, disability and life insurance; and other supplemental programs
• A generous PTO program (vacation, sick, holiday)
• Tuition & certification reimbursement
• Flexible work schedules
• Discretionary Employee bonuses
• 401(k) match/profit sharing
• Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP)

Pay Range: Salary at SARA is determined by various factors, including but not limited to location, the individual's particular combination of education, knowledge, skills, competencies, and experience, as well as contract-specific affordability and organizational requirements. The projected compensation range for this position is $140,000 to $175,000 (annualized USD). The estimate displayed represents the typical salary range for this position and is just one component of SARA's total compensation package for employees. Positions are on-site, unless indicated otherwise.

Application Deadline: May 29, 2026

SARA is an equal employment opportunity employer.