Job Information
Actalent Embedded Software Engineer in North Reading, Massachusetts
Job Title: Embedded Software Engineer
Job Description
This role focuses on building foundational real-time control applications that power advanced robotic platforms. You will work exclusively on C-based embedded development, creating low-level software that interfaces directly with Linux-based Industrial PCs (IPCs) and hardware components. This position is ideal for an embedded software engineer who enjoys deterministic, performance-critical programming and wants to see their code directly control high-speed automation systems.
Responsibilities
Design, build, and maintain real-time control applications using pure C for embedded systems.
Own the end-to-end integration of embedded software into Linux-based Industrial PC (IPC) infrastructure.
Optimize system performance, memory management, and process execution for high-speed robotic applications.
Collaborate closely with hardware engineers to define system requirements and support new board bring-up activities.
Validate and integrate sensors and actuators to ensure reliable and precise hardware interaction.
Lead and perform hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) testing to verify system behavior under realistic operating conditions.
Apply rigorous operational excellence practices to ensure reliability, maintainability, and scalability of embedded software.
Navigate ambiguous technical challenges and propose robust, long-term engineering solutions.
Establish and uphold durable engineering standards, including coding guidelines, testing practices, and documentation.
Use hardware-level debugging tools such as oscilloscopes and logic analyzers to diagnose and resolve system issues.
Essential Skills
Bachelor’s degree in Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field.
3–5+ years of hands-on experience in embedded software engineering.
Expert-level proficiency in C and C++ programming for embedded systems.
Strong experience with embedded C development and low-level software design.
Deep understanding of real-time control systems and deterministic software behavior.
Experience working in Linux environments and with IPC (Industrial PC) architectures.
Proficiency with the full software development life cycle (SDLC), including version control using Git.
Experience conducting effective code reviews to maintain code quality and consistency.
Strong hardware-level debugging skills using oscilloscopes, logic analyzers, and similar tools.
Ability to write clear technical specifications, design notes, and documentation.
Additional Skills & Qualifications
Previous experience in robotics, industrial automation, or medical device industries.
Experience integrating embedded software with complex hardware systems and real-time control loops.
Experience in sensor and actuator integration within embedded platforms.
Strong written communication skills for documenting designs, requirements, and test results.
Ability to collaborate effectively with cross-functional engineering teams, including hardware and systems engineers.
Comfort working through ambiguous technical problems and defining scalable engineering patterns.
Work Environment
You will work in a technology-driven environment focused on advanced robotics and automation, where embedded software directly controls real-world systems. The role centers on Linux-based Industrial PCs, real-time control frameworks, and low-level C/C++ development in close collaboration with hardware teams. You can expect regular interaction with lab and test equipment such as oscilloscopes, logic analyzers, and hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) setups to validate and refine system performance. The culture emphasizes rigorous engineering practices, clear documentation, code quality, and continuous improvement, providing an environment where precise, performance-critical embedded software is highly valued.
Job Type & Location
This is a Contract position based out of North Reading, MA.
Pay and Benefits
The pay range for this position is $50.00 - $65.00/hr.
Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: • Medical, dental & vision • Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital • 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available • Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) • Short and long-term disability • Health Spending Account (HSA) • Transportation benefits • Employee Assistance Program • Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)
Workplace Type
This is a fully onsite position in North Reading,MA.
Application Deadline
This position is anticipated to close on May 5, 2026.
Diversity, Equity & Inclusion
At Actalent, diversity and inclusion are a bridge towards the equity and success of our people. DE&I is embedded into our culture through:
Hiring diverse talent
Maintaining an inclusive environment through persistent self-reflection
Building a culture of care, engagement, and recognition with clear outcomes
Ensuring growth opportunities for our people
Actalent is an equal opportunity employer.
About Actalent
Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services. For more than 40 years, we’ve helped visionary companies advance their goals. Headquartered in the United States, our teams span 150 offices across North America, EMEA, and APAC—with four delivery centers in India led by 1,000+ extraordinary employees who connect their passion with purpose every day.
Our Bangalore, Hyderabad, Pune, and Chennai delivery centers are hubs of engineering expertise, with core capabilities in mechanical and electrical engineering, systems and software, and manufacturing engineering. Our teams deliver work across multiple industries including transportation, consumer and industrial products, and life sciences. We serve more than 4,500 clients, including many Fortune 500 brands. Learn more about how we can work together at actalentservices.com.