Principal Software Engineer – Connectivity (Embedded Systems)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 productsDefine requirements and software architecture in collaboration with systems engineering, product teams, R&D, marketing, and manufacturingDevelop production-level embedded software using C/C++ and assembly for multi-threaded, real-time systemsEnsure robust documentation and perform self-reviews and unit-level testingInterface with hardware teams to validate firmware in real product environmentsSupport manufacturing and field service implementation, including software tools for diagnostics and supportDevelop and validate PC, handheld, and mobile-based tools for development, service, and testingParticipate in system design reviews, including FMEAs and DFM/DFT evaluationsCoordinate formal documentation for requirements, design artifacts, and qualification testingRepresent the organization in technical societies and remain abreast of emerging industry innovationsRequired Qualifications:Bachelor's degree in Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or a related discipline7+ years of hands-on experience developing embedded software for microprocessor-based control systemsProficiency in C, C++, and Assembly for real-time, embedded environmentsExpertise in communication protocols and hardware interfaces: SPI, QSPI, UART, RS485Familiarity with modern wired and wireless technologies such as Ethernet, BLE, Wi-Fi, Thread, Matter, Amazon Sidewalk, BACnet, Modbus, and TCP/IPExperience 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 systemsAbility to read and interpret PCB schematics and system wiring diagramsWorking knowledge of MATLAB, LabVIEW, or other model-based development environmentsExcellent communication skills and the ability to work cross-functionally across engineering and product disciplinesPreferred Qualifications:Experience working with regulatory environments or connected appliance industriesFamiliarity with diagnostics tools for manufacturing and field deploymentStatistical design tools or knowledge of Design of Experiments (DOE)Experience mentoring engineering teams and driving systems architecture in fast-paced environmentsCompensation & Benefits:Competitive base salary and annual performance bonusesHybrid work flexibility (Chicago-based)Comprehensive benefits including medical, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance401(k) with matchContinuing education and certification supportHigh-impact role within a fast-evolving product innovation team