Senior Embedded Software Developer — Quantum Control Firmware
Q-Block Computing
- Ottawa, ON
- Permanent
- Full-time
- Design, architect, and implement reusable firmware libraries and embedded control subsystems in C/C++ for ARM Cortex-M platforms within the Arduino/PlatformIO ecosystem
- Analyze system-level requirements and recommend architectural approaches for new firmware features and subsystem modifications
- Develop and validate DMA-based parallel data transfer subsystems and synchronous multi-pin I/O operations for deterministic, low-latency hardware control
- Implement and test high-speed peripheral control for DAC, ADC, DDS, PLL, digital potentiometers, and RF attenuator/amplifier ICs communicating over SPI and LVDS
- Design and implement digital control loop modules (PI2D, FIR/IIR filters) for precision analog output stabilization
- Coordinate task execution and review the code, test results, and documentation of Electronics Engineering Technologists and other developers on the team
- Conduct system-level integration testing across multiple interconnected control units; design test strategies and document integration procedures and failure modes
- Set up and maintain firmware build environments, toolchains (PlatformIO, Make), and Git workflows for the team
- Write documentation for new and updated firmware subsystems
- Collaborate with cross-functional hardware and quantum systems teams
- Contribute to a culture of continuous learning and knowledge sharing within the team
- Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field
- 5+ years of professional experience in embedded software development with ARM Cortex-M or comparable architectures
- Strong C/C++ proficiency; demonstrated experience designing reusable embedded libraries or firmware architectures
- Deep understanding of DMA configuration, memory-mapped I/O, and real-time scheduling on ARM microcontrollers
- Experience with high-speed SPI, multi-IC board-level integration, and mixed-signal debugging
- Demonstrated ability to coordinate and review the technical work of other developers
- Experience with NXP i.MX RT series, Teensy, or PlatformIO platforms is an asset
- Exposure to digital control theory (PID, IIR/FIR), precision timing systems, or clock synchronization is an asset
- Good laboratory knowledge with electronic circuits and standard instruments such as oscilloscopes, logic analyzers, and signal generators
- Strong attention to detail and a sense of responsibility in all tasks
- Critical thinking and problem-solving mindset
- Strong interpersonal skills and ability to work collaboratively in a dynamic team environment
- Extended health care benefits (inc. dental and vision)
- Life insurance