Junior Embedded Software Engineer - Optical Communication Systems

About the Role

We are seeking a Junior Embedded Software Engineer to join our team at AGPhotonics, specializing in advanced optical communication systems. This Junior Embedded Software Engineer remote position is perfect for entry-level candidates eager to develop their skills in embedded systems and control software.

What You'll Do

• Support the development of embedded software for Pointing, Acquisition, and Tracking (PAT) subsystems, including real-time control loops for pointing, tracking, and stabilization, under the guidance of senior engineers.
• Assist in implementing and testing control algorithms based on classical control theory (PID, state-space concepts), using simulation and hardware-in-the-loop approaches.
• Develop and maintain embedded firmware for microcontrollers, SoCs, or FPGA-based systems used in optical tracking and navigation subsystems.
• Interface embedded software with optical sensors (e.g., position-sensitive detectors, cameras, photodiodes) and non-optical sensors (e.g., IMUs, encoders), supporting sensor data acquisition and fusion efforts.
• Contribute to system bring-up, debugging, and performance characterization of opto-mechatronic hardware in laboratory environments.
• Support navigation- and tracking-related software components, including coordinate transformations, reference frame handling, and basic estimation algorithms.
• Document software design, interfaces, and test results, and communicate findings during internal design and test reviews.

Requirements

• BS in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Robotics, Mechatronics, or a related field; MS preferred but not required.
• Experience with embedded software development in C/C++ (or similar), through coursework, internships, or personal projects.
• Foundational understanding of control systems (e.g., PID control, system dynamics, stability concepts); practical implementation experience is a plus.
• Familiarity with real-time embedded systems, including interrupts, timers, and low-level hardware interfaces (SPI, I²C, UART, GPIO).
• Exposure to sensor integration and basic signal processing; experience with IMUs, cameras, or optical sensors is a plus.
• Interest in or introductory experience with opto-mechatronic systems, such as motorized stages, actuators, gimbals, or fast steering mechanisms (nice to have, not required).
• Ability to work collaboratively with optical, mechanical, and systems engineers, and a willingness to learn across disciplines.
• Strong debugging mindset, attention to detail, and curiosity about hardware–software interaction in complex physical systems.

What We Offer

• A great team with first-class colleagues and experienced academic advisors.
• Work on a product-oriented deep-tech start-up in an early stage, enabling a professional career with huge potential for motivated and talented young people.
• Competitive salary and performance-based bonuses.
• Relocation package if applicable.
• Intensive summer days and every Friday of the year.
• 23 days’ vacation plus bank holidays.
• Cutting-edge equipment boosting your productivity.
• Joining us means you’ll have full support to excel, grow, and embrace new challenges.