Systems Engineer - Firmware & Instrument ControlSanta Clara, CASystems Engineer - Firmware & Instrument ControlCompany: Picarro Location: Santa Clara, CA Education: Bachelor's Degree Required (Advanced degree preferred)Position OverviewPicarro is seeking a Systems Engineer - Firmware & Instrument Control to develop and support data acquisition, instrument control, and embedded software systems for advanced laser-based measurement platforms. This role focuses on solving complex real-time control and data acquisition challenges across experimental and production instrumentation environments.The ideal candidate has strong hands-on experience with experimental systems, data acquisition hardware, and instrument automation, along with proficiency in modern software development practices.Key ResponsibilitiesDesign and implement firmware and software for data acquisition and instrument control systemsDevelop control interfaces for laser-based experimental instrumentation systemsIntegrate and support data acquisition hardware and peripheral devicesBuild reliable communication interfaces for distributed instrument systemsCollaborate with scientists and engineers to translate experimental needs into robust control systemsDevelop automation tools for calibration, testing, and system monitoringDebug and optimize real-time data acquisition and control performanceSupport system integration from prototype through production deploymentRequired QualificationsStrong experience with data acquisition and control systems in experimental environmentsHands-on experience with laser-based experimental systems or similar high-precision instrumentationExperience with laboratory automation and instrumentation controlTechnical SkillsExperience with data acquisition platforms and tools such as:National Instruments (NI) systemsLabVIEWExperience with embedded and prototyping platforms such as:ArduinoRaspberry PiLinux-based systemsProgrammable Logic Controllers (PLCs)Strong understanding of instrument communication protocols:TCP/IPRS-232ModbusProficiency in Python preferred for automation and control scriptingC/C++ programming experience desirablePreferred QualificationsExperience with embedded systems developmentExposure to microcontrollers, FPGA development, or real-time operating systems (RTOS)Strong debugging and system integration skillsExperience building robust control systems for scientific or industrial instrumentationFamiliarity with real-time data streaming and acquisition architecturesThe base salary range for this full-time position is $120K to $130K. Our total compensation packages include base salary, bonus eligibility, and equity.
Your base salary range and title will be determined based on the location, experience, qualification, skills, knowledge, level, and pay of employees in similar positions.We offer a comprehensive benefit package including:Medical, Dental, and Vision insuranceFlexible Spending Account (FSA) and Health Savings Account (HSA) plansLife, Short-Term Disability, and Long-Term Disability InsurancePaid Time Off and Paid HolidaysEmployee Referral Program401KSocial events (summer picnic, holiday party, team lunches, etc.)On-site Health & Wellness programs (fitness challenges, outdoor bootcamp, flu-shots, etc.)About Picarro:We are the world's leader in timely, trusted, and actionable data using enhanced optical spectroscopy. Our solutions are used in a wide variety of applications, including natural gas leak detection, ethylene oxide emissions monitoring, semiconductor fabrication, pharmaceutical, petrochemical, atmospheric science, air quality, greenhouse gas measurements, food safety, hydrology, ecology, and more. Our software and hardware are designed and manufactured in Santa Clara, California and are used in over 90 countries worldwide based on over 65 patents related to cavity ring-down spectroscopy (CRDS) technology and are unparalleled in their precision, ease of use, and reliability.At Picarro, we are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace.
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, sex, color, religion, national origin, protected veteran status, gender identity, social orientation, or disability. Posted positions are not open to third-party recruiters/agencies, and unsolicited resume submissions will be considered free referrals.At Picarro, we strive to ensure that all individuals, regardless of their abilities, have equal opportunities. If you are an individual with a disability and require reasonable accommodation to complete any part of the application process or are limited in the ability or unable to access or use this online application process and need an alternative method for applying, please contact Picarro, Inc.
at for assistance.