Embedded SWE, Consumer Devices

OpenaiOpenai·Remote(San Francisco)
Other

WFA Digital Insight

The demand for skilled embedded software engineers in the remote job market has seen a significant surge, with a reported 25% increase in 2025. As companies like Openai continue to push the boundaries of AI and digital innovation, professionals with expertise in C/C++, embedded systems, and a passion for building high-performance devices are in high demand. Openai's commitment to ensuring AI benefits humanity makes this role particularly compelling for those looking to make a meaningful impact. Candidates should be prepared to showcase their technical skills, experience with embedded toolchains, and ability to work collaboratively in a hybrid environment. With the right skills and mindset, this role offers a unique opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge technology and be part of a team that's shaping the future of AI.

Job Description

About the Role

As an Embedded Software Engineer at Openai, you will be part of a dynamic team responsible for designing, implementing, and debugging software for embedded devices. This role is crucial in bridging the gap between cutting-edge devices and real-world constraints, ensuring that Openai's embedded platforms are robust, efficient, and production-ready. You will work closely with hardware engineers to deliver high-performance systems, from early prototyping through product launch.

The Embedded Software Engineering team at Openai is dedicated to pushing the boundaries of what is possible with embedded systems. You will have the opportunity to work on a wide range of projects, from developing software for custom hardware to optimizing system performance and power consumption. Your expertise and passion for building reliable, high-performance systems will be essential in driving the success of Openai's consumer devices.

What You Will Do

  • Design, implement, and debug software for embedded devices, focusing on reliability, performance, and efficiency.
  • Contribute to defining software requirements, interfaces, and test plans to ensure seamless integration with hardware components.
  • Bring up and debug new boards, collaborating with hardware teams to resolve any issues that arise.
  • Analyze performance, memory, and power profiles of embedded systems and implement optimizations as needed.
  • Investigate field issues, perform root-cause analysis, and deliver robust fixes to ensure high-quality products.
  • Foster good software engineering practices, including code reviews, testing, and continuous integration.
  • Partner with cross-functional teams, including hardware, product, and design, to ensure that software meets product requirements and is aligned with business goals.
  • Develop and maintain technical documentation for software components and systems.
  • Participate in the development of project plans, schedules, and resource allocation plans.
  • Collaborate with other engineers to resolve complex technical issues and share knowledge and best practices.

What We Are Looking For

  • Deep experience shipping embedded systems, preferably with 10+ years of experience in the field.
  • Proficiency in C and C++, with a strong understanding of embedded systems, operating systems, and debugging tools.
  • Familiarity with embedded toolchains, including compilers, linkers, and debuggers.
  • Experience with both rapid prototyping and scalable product development, with a focus on delivering high-quality products.
  • Strong debugging skills, with the ability to analyze complex issues and develop creative solutions.
  • Excellent collaboration and communication skills, with the ability to work effectively in a team environment.
  • Experience with version control systems, such as Git, and agile development methodologies.
  • A passion for building reliable, high-performance systems and a desire to contribute to the development of cutting-edge technology.

Nice to Have

  • Experience with Zephyr RTOS, a real-time operating system designed for embedded systems.
  • Familiarity with networking and wireless stacks, including BLE and Wi-Fi.
  • Experience with robotic system bring-up or Linux kernel development, with a focus on embedded systems.
  • Knowledge of security principles and practices for embedded systems, including secure boot, encryption, and secure communication protocols.
  • Experience with continuous integration and continuous deployment (CI/CD) pipelines, with a focus on automated testing and validation.

Benefits and Perks

  • Competitive compensation package, with a focus on attracting and retaining top talent in the industry.
  • Opportunities for professional growth and development, including training, mentorship, and career advancement opportunities.
  • Collaborative and dynamic work environment, with a team of experienced engineers and a culture of innovation and experimentation.
  • Flexible working hours and remote work options, with a focus on work-life balance and employee well-being.
  • Access to cutting-edge technology and tools, including custom hardware and software platforms.
  • Comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance, retirement savings, and paid time off.
  • Opportunities for networking and community involvement, including industry conferences, meetups, and hackathons.

How to Stand Out

  • Develop a strong portfolio that showcases your experience with embedded systems, including projects that demonstrate your skills in C/C++, debugging, and optimization.
  • Be prepared to discuss your experience with embedded toolchains, operating systems, and debugging tools, and how you have applied these skills in previous roles.
  • Highlight your ability to work collaboratively in a team environment, including experience with version control systems, agile development methodologies, and continuous integration and continuous deployment (CI/CD) pipelines.
  • Show a passion for building reliable, high-performance systems and a desire to contribute to the development of cutting-edge technology, including a willingness to learn and adapt to new technologies and methodologies.
  • Prepare to discuss your experience with security principles and practices for embedded systems, including secure boot, encryption, and secure communication protocols.
  • Be prepared to negotiate your salary based on your experience and qualifications, and don't be afraid to ask about benefits, perks, and opportunities for growth and development.

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