Senior Embedded Software Engineer I

ICON is seeking an experienced Senior Embedded Software Engineer I to lead the development of our cutting-edge print systems on the Phoenix Team. This team plays a pivotal role in transitioning the Phoenix machine into Serial Production. As a Senior Embedded Software Engineer at ICON, you will have a hands-on role in designing and supporting high-quality, maintainable embedded software systems. This position is based at ICON’s Austin, TX office and reports directly to the Manager of Phoenix Embedded Software.

RESPONBILITIES 

• Design and develop control architectures integrating both real-time and soft real-time systems.
• Collaborate with product teams to establish milestones and timelines for code releases, ensuring alignment with project goals.
• Take ownership of milestone delivery, ensuring deadlines are met.
• Program and debug complex control logic using structured text and C++ in the TwinCAT environment.
• Lead the selection of controls components for current and future systems.
• Research and define standardized architectures for controls, components, and electrical systems across the organization.
• Document architectural decisions related to controls, electrical, and hydraulic systems.
• Develop modular, object-oriented code patterns that are well-documented, structured, and easily maintainable.
• Build and maintain relationships with external stakeholders, serving as a key liaison between the software team and product/UX teams.
• Proactively communicate and escalate technical risks, issues, and code quality concerns.
• Architect communications protocols between supervisory and real-time systems.
• Develop, maintain, and extend simulated environments for unit testing, creating automated test campaigns.
• Present change logs and release notes to upper management and company-wide in an accessible format.
• Participate in equipment design reviews and project status meetings with both internal teams and external suppliers.
• Mentor engineers in best practices, ensuring consistent product development across the controls engineering team.
• Be the authoritative source for all controls-related information.
• Adapt to a dynamic work environment, transitioning between office and field work as needed.
• Provide ongoing support for systems operating in the field, both remotely and on-site.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor’s degree in a relevant engineering discipline.
• 8+ years of experience in controls development, with 3+ years focused on real-time control systems.
• Proficiency in object-oriented programming, particularly using structured text and C++.
• Experience with industrial automation systems and control platforms (e.g., TwinCAT, PLCs).
• Familiarity with hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) testing, simulation, and embedded systems development in manufacturing or robotics environments.
• Strong knowledge of communication protocols (e.g., CAN, Modbus, Ethernet/IP) and version control tools (e.g., Git, SVN).
• Experience in implementing safety-critical or highly reliable control systems.
• Knowledge of software development lifecycle methodologies (e.g., Agile, Scrum).
• Excellent problem-solving abilities and experience troubleshooting complex systems.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, collaborative work environment.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills for effective interaction with cross-functional teams.
• Understanding of regulatory standards and best practices in embedded software engineering.

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE

• Strong understanding of IP-based computer networking in embedded systems.
• Proven track record of successfully delivering complex projects to end users.
• Expertise in motion and process control for real-time industrial systems.
• Innovative, proactive problem solver with a drive for overcoming challenges.
• Service-oriented, especially in support roles.
• Prior experience in a fast-paced startup environment.
• Proficient in TwinCAT 3 Object-Oriented Structured Text development.
• Experience with C# or Python for embedded systems.
• Ability to read and contribute to electrical schematics.
• Self-motivated with a proactive approach to ambiguous situations.
• Strong ability to collaborate with and influence senior management.