Embedded Systems Engineer

Embedded Systems / Firmware Engineer

Full-Time | Knoxville, TN (Preferred) - Multiple Locations Available.

Hybrid / On-Site Preferred – Remote Considered for Exceptional Candidates

About Project Lucky Duck (Project LDC)

Lucky Duck Capital (Project LDC) is a stealth-mode aviation technology company developing a real-time, AI-powered compliance intelligence platform that bridges multiple transportation sectors. Using patented hardware and software solutions, we deliver advanced connectivity, operator verification, and compliance tools tailored for operators, airfields, ports, and government agencies worldwide. Our mission is to drive operational efficiency, safety, accountability, and transparency across the National Airspace System (NAS).

The Role

We are seeking a talented Embedded Systems / Firmware Engineer to own the core real-time embedded software and firmware layer of our rugged, field-deployable platforms. This high-impact, high-ownership position is critical to our competitive edge in cost leadership, deployment speed, reliability, and regulatory compliance. As an Embedded Systems Engineer, you will design, develop, optimize, and test embedded firmware and real-time software that integrates advanced edge computing, communications, and sensor systems for mission-critical aviation and transportation applications.

This is a full-time role ideal for an experienced Firmware Engineer who thrives in fast-paced startup environments and wants to deliver cutting-edge embedded solutions that advance aviation safety and compliance.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and optimize embedded firmware and real-time software for high-performance edge computing platforms with AI acceleration and redundant failover architectures.
• Integrate and tune Software-Defined Radios (SDR) for reliable VHF airband capture, decoding, relay, and fusion with surveillance data in embedded systems.
• Implement resilient multi-path connectivity with intelligent failover logic across satellite, cellular, and mesh networking solutions for robust IoT and field-deployed systems.
• Develop robust power management, system health monitoring, and low-power optimization for hybrid renewable and backup power systems targeting extended autonomous operation.
• Build real-time edge processing pipelines for multi-sensor fusion, operator verification, secure data handling, and immutable audit trails in embedded firmware.
• Ensure deterministic performance, fault tolerance, EMI/ruggedization, and rapid boot/auto-configure capabilities for quick field deployments in weatherproof enclosures.
• Collaborate closely with hardware design, cross-functional teams, and field operations on full system integration, environmental testing, troubleshooting, and rapid iteration based on real-world feedback.
• Contribute to regulatory compliance documentation and safety-critical system deliverables, including real-time determinism and logging for aviation and transportation standards.

Required Qualifications

• 4+ years of hands-on experience in embedded systems / firmware development with strong proficiency in C/C++ and Python.
• Deep experience with Linux-based embedded platforms, ARM/SoC architectures, device drivers, real-time operating systems, and fault-tolerant design.
• Proven track record integrating RF communications, SDRs, networking protocols, sensors, or IoT-connected devices in embedded systems.
• Strong foundation in electronics, signal processing, power management, and hardware-software integration and troubleshooting.
• Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent experience) in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, collaborative startup environment with rapid development and field deployment cycles.

Preferred Qualifications

• Background in aviation, aerospace, defense, drone/UAS, or safety-critical embedded systems, RID, ADS-B, RTS and standards such as DO-160/DO-178 is a strong plus).
• Hands-on experience with edge AI inference, computer vision pipelines, or advanced sensor processing in embedded firmware.
• Familiarity with satellite/cellular connectivity solutions or ruggedized field-deployed systems.
• Passion for advancing safety, efficiency, and compliance in aviation and transportation infrastructure.

What We Offer

• Competitive salary + significant equity participation in a high-growth stealth-mode startup positioned for major grants and early revenue.
• Direct, visible impact on real-world aviation safety and national airspace modernization.
• Opportunity to work hands-on with cutting-edge hardware, edge AI, and connectivity technologies.
• Fast-paced execution environment where prototypes quickly advance to field testing and deployment.
• Comprehensive benefits package.
• Collaborative, mission-driven culture focused on innovation and results.
• RSUs

Equal Employment Opportunity & Compliance Statement

Lucky Duck Capital is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic under applicable federal, state, or local law.

We are committed to providing reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities and for sincerely held religious beliefs in accordance with applicable laws. If you require an accommodation during the application or interview process, please let us know.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to any protected status. We encourage applications from veterans, individuals with disabilities, and members of underrepresented groups in technology and aviation.

How to Apply

Please submit your resume and a brief cover note highlighting your relevant experience in embedded systems, firmware development, or aviation technology to [email protected]

Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis.

This position is open to U.S. persons. Sponsorship is not currently available.