Senior Embedded Firmware Specialist

Company Description
DevKnots connects senior, pre-vetted technical specialists with seed-stage to Series B startups across the US, UK, and UAE, with a focus on AI/ML, embedded engineering, cybersecurity, and cloud infrastructure. Having placed over 75 dedicated specialists with Y Combinator-backed founders and high-growth ventures, DevKnots offers a flexible retainer model that embeds production-tested experts directly into engineering teams without placement fees or long-term lock-ins.
Role Description
The Senior Embedded Firmware Specialist is a full-time remote role responsible for leading pre-production firmware development, driver integration, and low-power optimization for an innovative UK-based IoT pet tracking venture. Working directly alongside founder-led teams, you will bridge the gap between physical PCB prototypes and software layers, taking hardware from early EVT validation to mass manufacturing readiness.
Day-to-day responsibilities include designing Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) protocols, configuring microamp deep-sleep power execution states, writing low-level drivers, and debugging board-level issues using oscilloscopes and logic analyzers. You will operate fully integrated into client workflows, ensuring robust code quality, battery longevity, and reliable wireless pairing.
Qualifications
3–4+ years of hands-on experience in embedded firmware development using C/C++ for microcontrollers and real-time systems (e.g., FreeRTOS, Zephyr).
Proven track record in BLE Architecture, custom GATT profiles, and wireless pairing protocols (Nordic nRF series experience is a strong plus).
Strong expertise in Power Management & Optimization, tuning deep-sleep states, execution cycles, and sensor interrupts for resource-constrained wearable devices.
Deep experience writing drivers for hardware interfaces including SPI, I2C, UART, and GPIO, with the ability to read and interpret PCB schematics easily.
Hands-on proficiency with hardware debugging tools, including oscilloscopes, logic analyzers, and power profilers to isolate PCB board faults from code bugs.
Experience with Git-based version control, secure bootloaders, and firmware update mechanisms (OTA).
Excellent spoken and written English, with the ability to communicate complex engineering tradeoffs directly to technical founders.
Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, or equivalent practical experience.
Working Hours: Full-time remote, aligned with UK Business Hours (1:00 PM – 9:00 PM PKT / 2:00 PM – 10:00 PM PKT during DST).
How to Apply
Submit your CV and a portfolio of hardware/firmware projects to contact@devknots.com

Work arrangement
No