Head of Embedded Software Engineering

Founded in 2011 by graduates of Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) and Rhode Island School of Design (RISD), RISE Robotics is a technology startup backed by Techstars, The Engine built by MIT, and other VCs. RISE Robotics leads the way to AI‑powered Zero Emission heavy machinery by providing the world’s most efficient, smart, and productive alternative to hydraulics. We specialize in fostering dynamic partnerships with Tier 1 suppliers, OEMs, and the Pentagon, pioneering the transition from traditional hydraulic systems to more efficient and sustainable solutions.

As the Head of Embedded Software Engineering, you will lead the team that builds the software powering our robotic lifting solutions. You will own the technical vision, roadmap, and execution for embedded software across the RISE platform—from low‑level firmware and real‑time motion control to the tools, processes, and architecture that let our engineers ship reliably  will grow and mentor a team of embedded software engineers, partner closely with hardware, mechanical, product, commercial, and manufacturing leaders, and represent embedded software to our Tier 1, OEM, and US DoW / DoD partners.

This role reports to the CEO. You will lead a team of 3 embedded engineers today, with a plan to grow the team to approximately 6 over the next few years as we scale our programs.

This position is a hybrid role with 4 days/week in Somerville, MA.

As a leader within the RISE Robotics Engineering organization, your contributions will shape the future of our company, directing the engineering effort to implement electronic controls of truly massive machines. You will set the bar for technical excellence on the embedded software team, turn an ambitious product roadmap into a deliverable plan, and build the team and practices that will take RISE from early deployments to full‑scale production.

Our dynamic and expanding team is ready to embrace your talent and ideas as we work together to redefine the way we operate.

If you’re passionate about motion control technology, love building high‑performing engineering teams, and thrive in a fast‑paced, innovative environment, we want you to be a part of our journey. Join us and make your mark on the world of embedded software engineering!

• Technical Leadership:
  Own the embedded software architecture, roadmap, and technical strategy for the RISE Beltdraulic platform, from firmware and real‑time control through diagnostics, telemetry, and tooling
• Development Strategy:
  Recommend build vs. build decisions, and when to use open vs. closed‑source software in our products
• Team Building & Management:
  Hire, grow, and retain a high‑performing team of embedded software engineers. Set clear expectations, run performance and career development, and build a culture of ownership, craft, and safety
• Execution & Delivery:
  Translate product and program commitments into embedded software plans. Drive high‑quality delivery across multiple concurrent programs with Tier 1 suppliers, OEMs, and US DoD / DoW partners and recommend trade‑offs when over constrained
• Hands‑On Engineering:
  Stay technically close to the work. Review designs and code, unblock hard problems, and contribute directly to critical embedded software components for robotic lift systems when needed
• System Integration:
  Partner with hardware, electrical, and mechanical engineering to integrate embedded software with the RISE platform’s electromechanical components and ensure end‑to‑end system performance
• Algorithm & Real‑Time Systems Ownership:
  Guide the development and optimization of control algorithms, real‑time control loops, feedback systems, and sensor integration for precise and efficient robotic lifting operations
• Quality, Safety & Reliability:
  Define and enforce standards for testing, debugging, code review, release management, and functional safety so that our systems are reliable and robust in the field
• Engineering Process & Tooling:
  Establish and evolve the software development lifecycle—version control, CI, HIL/SIL testing, documentation, and incident response—appropriate for a growing electromechanical product company
• Cross‑Functiona…