Embedded Software Engineer

Metalware is a startup dedicated to protecting cyber-physical systems in critical industries. We develop advanced firmware security solutions for industries where failure isn't an optionranging from aerospace/defense, automotive, and industrial controls to telecom and healthcare.

We're seeking an Embedded Software Engineer to architect and build our core emulation and fuzzing infrastructure. In this role, you will be instrumental in creating novel firmware analysis tooling that uncovers vulnerabilities in firmware.

Who You Are

• You can articulate how a computer works from top to bottom, explaining core concepts like the kernel, operating system, memory registers, hardware interactions, and other system internals.
• You enjoy engaging directly with cutting-edge customersfrom drone and electric vehicle manufacturers to humanoid robot, nuclear reactor, and satellite companiesto understand their challenges and deliver rapid, effective solutions.
• You're comfortable gathering user feedback, understanding requirements, and quickly shipping code.
• You want to work side-by-side with the founders to shape product direction and technical roadmap.
• You're passionate about developing high-quality embedded software and own every aspect of the development lifecyclefrom design and coding to testing and ongoing support.

Responsibilities

• Engineer scalable platform enhancements to support a variety of CPU architectures, real-time operating systems, and custom hardware interfaces.
• Analyze and reverse-engineer firmware binaries to uncover vulnerabilities and improve detection accuracy.
• Create novel algorithms that balance emulation fidelity with performance, ensuring efficient and robust testing environments.
• Engage in architecture, design, and code reviews to build robust, scalable solutions.
• Develop prototypes to validate design concepts, quantify technical constraints, and iterate on new ideas.
• Gather and incorporate user feedback to continuously improve product features and performance.

Minimum Qualifications

• Proficient in C, C++, or Rust programming languages.
• Professional experience in embedded or low-level systems development.
• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Engineering, Mathematics, or a related STEM discipline with 3+ years of professional software engineering experience; OR 5+ years of professional software engineering experience in lieu of a degree.

Ideal Qualifications

• Solid understanding of operating systems, kernels, drivers, networking protocols, and mathematics.
• Experience with reverse engineering tools such as Ghidra, IDA Pro, or Binary Ninja.
• Knowledge of emulator frameworks like QEMU, including Tiny Code Generator (TCG).
• Familiarity with instruction set architectures (ISA) such as ARM, MIPS, RISC-V.
• Prior experience in device product security and reverse engineering.
• Strong skills in debugging, performance optimization, and testing methodologies.
• Familiarity with cybersecurity best practices and standards.

Additional Requirements

• Must be willing to work extended hours and weekends as needed to meet project deadlines and deliverables.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and equity package.
• Full health, vision, and dental benefits.
• Opportunities for continuous professional development, including training and conference participation.