Embedded Linux Developer for AI-Enabled Acoustic Systems

We are seeking an embedded linux developer to develop, debug and maintain software for our line of AI-enabled acoustic systems. In addition to traditional embedded software engineering tasks you will also be expected to periodically join field operations to deploy new systems, obtain user feedback, and better understand the primary use case. Responsibilities This position will be part of the interdisciplinary hardware development team located in Falmouth MA. The team includes a diverse team of engineers and technicians that includes mechanical hardware and board-level electronics design engineers. Successful candidates will work with this team to deliver sensor systems that meet customer needs. Responsibilities may vary but will generally include: Translate general system requirements to actionable software tasks and architecture.

Embedded Linux development – Develop, troubleshoot, test, deploy, and debug primary buoy software in a Linux environment using modern GNU dev tools. Current codebase uses C++17 / Python 3.12+ in a ROS2 environment but ROS2 will be removed in the future.

Cross-platform development – Develop, maintain, test, debug, and employ a cross-platform DSP library developed for both real-time use on ARM A-series processors and traditional cloud computing environments.

Implement User Feedback – Solicit feedback from buoy field operators, identify key features missing from the existing system, and implement and appropriate.

Interface with IoT cloud segment – Maintain API with an independent cloud processing team that consumes acoustic data from the Internet of Things (IoT) buoy systems and creates data products to meet customer requirements. This includes both real-time data via MQTT and data offload during the servicing interval via upload to Amazon S3.

Testing – Test components, subsystems and systems in the shop and in the field.

Handoff to maritime operations – Develop documentation, procedures, scripts, containers, CI/CD pipelines, as needed to enable technicians to scale up buoy production as Spear grows.

Mentoring of junior colleagues as the team grows. Requirements

8+ years of experience with embedded software. New college graduates without the requisite experience will not be considered under any circumstances.

Exemplary attention to detail, a focus on quality, and an uncompromising focus on safety.

Strong programing, testing, and debugging fundamentals. C/C++ experience strongly preferred.

Strong version control fundamentals.

Excellent verbal and good written communication skills.

Ability to work with hardware engineers to debug complex systems where bugs lie at the interface between hardware and software.

Experience working in a Linux environment.

Ability to physically participate in at sea deployment, test, and recovery operations including ability to lift, carry, and maneuver on a small boat at sea, communicate verbally, and carry out fine manipulations.

Eligibility for a SECRET, or TOP SECRET security clearance. Desired

Any maritime operations experience including small boat operations, over-the-side handling, field repair and logistics of a trip to sea.

Prior military service of a history of 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 working with low-level communications protocols such as I2C, SPI, asynchronous serial, CAN, or similar.

Experience with embedded IoT modems using the AT command set.

Experience with FreeRTOS and its large modules such as filesystem or network drivers. Why work with us

We ship — We don’t work on 18-month projects that are irrelevant before they’re even finished.

Our work has impact — We build products that are deployed to U.S. submarines and integrate with the sonobuoys we manufacture.

We’re growing responsibly — We have the resources to hire a lot more people, but we don’t want to build a massive team of people who don’t share our values.

We’re profitable — We aren’t burning through cash trying to make the business work. But we also have investors who believe in us and are committed to our success.

We care about doing great work — You don’t need permission to sweat the details here.

We don’t take ourselves too seriously — We’re building products that make the world safer. But we don’t let that get to our heads. 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 time 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 Us

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 accordance with state law, candidates in jurisdictions such as CA, CO, WA, NY, and others, where applicable, will be provided a good-faith salary range upon request and throughout the hiring process. This is a full-time, exempt position under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) and is not eligible for overtime pay. Compensation for this position is provided on a salaried basis and is not subject to reduction based on hours worked. At Spear AI, you’ll find more than just a job; you’ll join a mission-driven team where your work directly contributes to national security. Our flat organizational structure means your voice matters, your ideas reach leadership, and your impact is visible. As we grow, we’re committed to building robust processes and infrastructure that support both our mission and our people. We value collaboration, continuous improvement, and the expertise each team member brings to the table. If you’re looking for a place to grow professionally while working on projects that truly matter, we’d love to hear from you.