Principal Software Engineer, Connectivity

Principal Software Engineer – Connectivity (Embedded Systems) Location: Chicago, IL (Hybrid) | Full-Time | Advanced IoT/Embedded Tech Our client, an industry leader in connected home and energy-efficient products, is seeking a Principal Software Engineer – Connectivity to drive the design and development of embedded software for IoT-connected MEP devices. This key role sits within the Advanced Technology & Integration team and focuses on architecting scalable connectivity solutions across product lines.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead the end-to-end development of embedded software for connectivity modules integrated with home appliance products
• Define requirements and software architecture in collaboration with systems engineering, product teams, R&D, marketing, and manufacturing
• Develop production-level embedded software using C/C++ and assembly for multi-threaded, real-time systems
• Ensure robust documentation and perform self-reviews and unit-level testing
• Interface with hardware teams to validate firmware in real product environments
• Support manufacturing and field service implementation, including software tools for diagnostics and support
• Develop and validate PC, handheld, and mobile-based tools for development, service, and testing
• Participate in system design reviews, including FMEAs and DFM/DFT evaluations
• Coordinate formal documentation for requirements, design artifacts, and qualification testing
• Represent the organization in technical societies and remain abreast of emerging industry innovations

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or a related discipline
• 7+ years of hands-on experience developing embedded software for microprocessor-based control systems
• Proficiency in C, C++, and Assembly for real-time, embedded environments
• Expertise in communication protocols and hardware interfaces: SPI, QSPI, UART, RS485
• Familiarity with modern wired and wireless technologies such as Ethernet, BLE, Wi-Fi, Thread, Matter, Amazon Sidewalk, BACnet, Modbus, and TCP/IP
• Experience with version control tools (e.g., GitHub) and debugging tools (oscilloscopes, emulators, logic analyzers)
• Strong knowledge of secure embedded systems: Secure Boot, TLS, X.509, encrypted file systems
• Ability to read and interpret PCB schematics and system wiring diagrams
• Working knowledge of MATLAB, LabVIEW, or other model-based development environments
• Excellent communication skills and the ability to work cross-functionally across engineering and product disciplines

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience working with regulatory environments or connected appliance industries
• Familiarity with diagnostics tools for manufacturing and field deployment
• Statistical design tools or knowledge of Design of Experiments (DOE)
• Experience mentoring engineering teams and driving systems architecture in fast-paced environments

Compensation & Benefits:

• Competitive base salary and annual performance bonuses
• Hybrid work flexibility (Chicago-based)
• Comprehensive benefits including medical, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance
• 401(k) with match
• Continuing education and certification support
• High-impact role within a fast-evolving product innovation team