Job Specifications
Spear AI is seeking an Embedded Software Developer to develop, debug, and maintain embedded software and firmware for our AI-enabled acoustic systems. Beyond traditional embedded software engineering, you'll periodically join field operations to deploy systems, gather user feedback, and deepen your understanding of real-world operational requirements.
About Spear AI
Spear AI serves the national security industry, providing hardware, software, and data solutions across classification levels for operational deployment. We're a rapidly growing company committed to developing excellent products through continuous fielding. We offer competitive pay, stock options, excellent benefits, and generous paid time off.
The Role
You'll join our interdisciplinary hardware development team in Falmouth, MA, working alongside mechanical engineers, board-level electronics designers, and technicians to deliver buoys that meet customer needs.
Responsibilities
Embedded Linux Development – Develop, troubleshoot, test, deploy, and debug primary buoy software in a Linux environment using modern GNU dev tools (current codebase: C++17 / Python 3.12+ in ROS2)
Cross-Platform Development – Develop, maintain, test, debug, and deploy a cross-platform DSP library for both real-time ARM A-series processors and traditional cloud computing environments
Firmware Development – Develop, troubleshoot, test, deploy, and debug firmware for STM32 microcontrollers running FreeRTOS, C23, and standard STM32 HAL APIs
User Feedback Implementation – Solicit feedback from field operators, identify missing features, and implement appropriate solutions
IoT Cloud Interface – Maintain API integration with our independent cloud processing team, including real-time data via MQTT and data offload to Amazon S3 during service intervals
Testing – Test components, subsystems, and complete systems in both shop and field environments
Maritime Operations Handoff – Develop documentation, procedures, scripts, containers, and CI/CD pipelines to enable production scaling
Requirements
Exemplary attention to detail, focus on quality, and uncompromising commitment to safety
Strong programming, testing, and debugging fundamentals (C/C++ experience strongly preferred)
Strong version control fundamentals, especially Git
Excellent verbal and good written communication skills
2-4 years of embedded software experience (new graduates considered only with strong internship experience or prior military service)
Ability to collaborate with hardware engineers to debug complex hardware-software interface issues
Experience working in Linux environments
Physical ability to participate in at-sea deployment, test, and recovery operations (including lifting, carrying, and maneuvering on small boats at sea, verbal communication, and fine manipulations)
Ability to obtain SECRET or higher security clearance (at no expense to you; see CIA requirements for reference)
Desired Qualifications
Maritime operations experience (small boat operations, over-the-side handling, field repair, sea logistics)
Prior military service or history working with military customers/personnel
Python programming skills
Experience with CMake, ROS2's build system (ament/colcon), Docker, GCC cross-compilation, and other build/deployment/CI tooling for embedded systems
Experience with low-level communications protocols (I2C, SPI, asynchronous serial, CAN, or similar)
Experience with embedded IoT modems using AT command sets
Experience with FreeRTOS and its modules (filesystem, network drivers)
What We Offer
Unlimited PTO — Take the time you need to recharge and maintain work-life balance
Dedicated Sick Time — Your health and well-being come first
Comprehensive Health & Benefits – Medical, dental, and vision coverage to keep you and your family protected
11 Paid Holidays — Enjoy time off throughout the year to celebrate and spend with loved ones
Professional Development — Educational opportunities and resources to help you grow your skills and advance your career
Collaborative Environment — Work directly with leadership in our flat organizational structure, where your ideas and contributions matter
Mission-Driven Work — Contribute to projects that directly support national security and make a real-world impact
Growth Opportunities — Join us during an exciting expansion phase where you can help shape our future
Additional Benefit Opportunities When You Choose Spear AI
401(k) with company match
Onsite / Remote / Flexible work arrangements or hybrid options (position dependent)
Relocation assistance (position dependent)
Referral bonuses
Performance bonuses
Life insurance and disability coverage
Technology home office setup stipend
Professional certification reimbursement (position dependent)
We offer competitive compensation tailored to your experience, location, and the impact you’ll make. We’re committed to equitable pay and will share a range aligned to your level and geography during the hiring process. In accor