Embedded Software Engineer II

Job Title

Principal Embedded Software Engineer (Westford, MA)

Lead design, development, testing, and maintenance of embedded software for fire detection systems at Johnson Controls R&D facility in Westford, MA. Work with cross‑functional teams—senior engineers, systems engineers, hardware designers, and quality teams—to deliver reliable, high‑quality solutions throughout the product lifecycle.

• Design, develop, debug, and maintain embedded software applications and firmware.
• Implement software features using C/C++ and other applicable programming languages.
• Develop software for microcontrollers, processors, and real‑time embedded systems.
• Participate in software architecture, design reviews, and code reviews.
• Create and execute unit, integration, and system‑level tests.
• Support debugging efforts using oscilloscopes, logic analyzers, JTAG debuggers, and other development tools.
• Investigate and resolve software defects and performance issues.
• Collaborate with hardware, systems, and test engineers to integrate software with embedded platforms.
• Develop and maintain technical documentation, including software design specifications and test procedures.
• Follow software development processes, coding standards, and quality requirements.
• Participate in continuous improvement initiatives related to software quality, development efficiency, and product reliability.

• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field.
• 0–3 years of experience in embedded software development (product development, internships, co‑ops, or academic projects).
• Experience programming in C and/or C++.
• Experience with embedded Linux, RTOS, or bare‑metal development environments.
• Understanding of embedded systems fundamentals.
• Basic knowledge of software debugging and troubleshooting techniques.
• Familiarity with Git or other version control systems.
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills.
• Effective verbal and written communication skills.

• Experience with ARM‑based microcontrollers or processors.
• Familiarity with communication protocols such as SPI, I2C, UART, Ethernet, and USB.
• Knowledge of RTOS environments such as FreeRTOS, ThreadX, or Zephyr.
• Exposure to embedded Linux development.
• Experience with scripting languages such as Python.
• Understanding of software testing, automated testing, and continuous integration practices.
• Familiarity with secure software development practices.
• Experience working in regulated industries such as aerospace, defense, medical, automotive, or industrial automation.

Salary range: $94,000 – $141,000. The position includes competitive compensation, paid vacation/holidays/sick time, comprehensive benefits package (401K, medical, dental, vision), cross‑training and development opportunities, flexible hybrid work model, and adherence to a Zero Harm safety policy.

Johnson Controls International plc. is an equal employment opportunity and affirmative action employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, protected veteran status, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity, status as a qualified individual with a disability, or any other characteristic protected by law. For more information about your equal opportunity and non‑discrimination rights, visit EEO is the Law.

If you are an individual with a disability and require accommodation during the application process, please visit the disability accommodation page.