Embedded Firmware Engineer

• Design, write, test, and maintain embedded firmware modules in C/C++ for ARM Cortex-M microcontroller platforms used across Q-Block's quantum hardware.
• Implement and validate peripheral device drivers for precision analog and digital ICs over SPI, I2C, UART, and related interfaces.
• Develop DMA transfer configurations, GPIO management routines, and interrupt service routines to achieve deterministic, low-latency I/O timing.
• Implement digital control loop modules and other real-time signal handling functions based on system-level requirements.
• Integrate and test firmware across multiple interconnected control units operating as a synchronized system.
• Contribute to clock distribution, timing synchronization, and coherent multi-unit operation from the firmware side of the stack.
• Perform bench-level hardware bring-up, debugging, and characterization using oscilloscopes, logic analyzers, and signal generators.
• Write clear technical documentation for new and updated firmware modules, including test procedures, integration guides, and interface specifications.
• Participate in design reviews; contribute constructively to code review, architectural discussion, and the engineering standards of the team.
• Collaborate across hardware, firmware, systems, and scientific teams to translate system-level requirements into firmware deliverables that work.
• Contribute to a culture of continuous learning, rigorous engineering practice, and honest technical discussion.

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, Engineering Physics, Physics, or a closely related field.
• 3+ years of professional experience in embedded firmware development on ARM Cortex-M or comparable microcontroller architectures.
• Strong proficiency in C/C++ for bare-metal and/or RTOS-based embedded systems.
• Solid understanding of SPI, I2C, UART, and DMA controllers on ARM microcontrollers, including the trade-offs that determine real-time behavior.
• Ability to read schematics and component datasheets; comfortable working at the hardware–firmware boundary.
• Hands-on proficiency with standard laboratory instruments such as oscilloscopes, logic analyzers, and signal generators.

• Experience designing deterministic, low-latency control paths in mixed-signal or precision measurement systems.
• Exposure to digital signal processing, real-time scheduling, or precision timing and synchronization systems.
• Experience with hardware abstraction layers, reusable driver frameworks, or board support packages across multiple MCU or IC families.
• Familiarity with ADC/DAC integration, analog front-end control, or timing-sensitive data acquisition pipelines.
• Experience with Arduino, Teensy, PlatformIO, or comparable rapid-prototyping development environments.
• Experience in scientific, defense, or deep-tech hardware environments.
• Familiarity with version control, continuous integration, and structured firmware release practices.

• Must be eligible to obtain and maintain Government of Canada security clearance, if required for assigned projects.
• Must be eligible to comply with requirements of the Controlled Goods Program, if required for assigned projects.
• Must be willing to participate in background screening, documentation, and compliance processes associated with security-sensitive work.
• Experience working in regulated, security-sensitive, or defense-oriented engineering environments is an asset.

• Strong attention to detail, authenticity, and a sense of responsibility in all tasks.
• Critical thinking and a problem-solving mindset grounded in measurement and evidence.
• Clear written and verbal communication; ability to produce firmware documentation that holds up under rigorous review.
• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work collaboratively in a dynamic, multidisciplinary team.

Q-Block Computing is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to treating all employees and applicants with respect and dignity. Accommodations are available on request during the application and recruiting process.

Canadian citizens and permanent residents are strongly encouraged to apply. All interested candidates are encouraged to apply.