Senior Embedded Software Engineer - Contract
Cytovale · South San Francisco, California, United States
Biotechnology Research · 51-200 employees
About the role
Design and maintain embedded software in C++ for the IntelliSep instrument platforms and Linux-based systems. Develop Python-based tools and CI/CD pipelines to support verification, validation, and manufacturing workflows.
What they look for
Requirements
Requires a BS/MS in Computer Engineering or related field with over 8 years of experience in embedded software for complex electromechanical systems. Expert-level proficiency in C++ on Linux and strong Python skills are essential.
Full description
Senior Embedded Software Engineer - ContractCytovale | Software & Data Systems
Department: Software & Data Systems Reports To: Senior Engineering Manager, Software & DataAbout Cytovale
Cytovale is a medical diagnostics company whose FDA-cleared IntelliSep® test enables rapid sepsis risk assessment in the emergency department. Our instrument combines microfluidic sample preparation, high-speed imaging, real-time image analysis, and advanced software to deliver clinically actionable results in minutes. We develop and maintain this technology under a regulated quality system compliant with FDA design controls, IEC 62304, ISO 13485, and modern cybersecurity expectations.The Role
We are seeking a hands-on Senior Embedded Software Engineer to work on a contractual basis, contributing across the IntelliSep software platform, including the Sample Preparation Module (SPM), Cell Imaging Module (CIM), and Image Analysis Module (IAM). You will go beyond traditional embedded development by supporting Linux-based embedded platforms, software architecture, OS upgrades, and development infrastructure.What You'll Do
- Design, implement, and maintain embedded software in modern C++ across IntelliSep instrument platforms and Linux-based systems.
- Support platform modernization efforts, including embedded OS upgrades, toolchain updates, and software infrastructure improvements.
- Develop Python-based tools, build systems, and CI/CD pipelines to support verification and validation (V&V), manufacturing, service, and data workflows.
- Troubleshoot complex issues spanning software, firmware, operating systems, networking, and instrument hardware.
- Design and maintain interfaces between instrument subsystems, including imaging, motion control, sensing, and software services.
- Author and maintain software requirements, architecture/design specifications, and quality system lifecycle artifacts.
- Contribute to software V&V, cybersecurity maintenance, vulnerability remediation, risk management, and secure product development activities.
- Distribute engineering knowledge through documentation, architecture reviews, and mentorship.
Required Qualifications
- BS or MS in Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or equivalent industry experience.
- 8+ years of experience developing embedded software for complex electromechanical systems.
- Expert-level C++ programming on Linux-based systems, with strong multi-threading and performance-optimization experience.
- Experience integrating and debugging complex instrumentation (motion control, imaging, sensors, networking) using equipment like oscilloscopes and logic analyzers.
- Strong Python programming skills.
- Experience developing and maintaining CI/CD infrastructure, cross-compilation environments, and automated verification workflows.
- Experience authoring software requirements, architecture documents, and design specifications.
- Demonstrated ability to independently troubleshoot cross-disciplinary issues with excellent written and verbal communication skills.
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience developing medical device software under FDA design controls, IEC 62304, ISO 13485, and risk management frameworks.
- Hands-on embedded Linux experience, including OS interfaces, deployment, debugging, and lifecycle maintenance.
- Experience with Docker, containerized build environments, and infrastructure automation.
- Experience with distributed embedded systems architecture, configuration management, and regulated development processes.
- Experience supporting cybersecurity deliverables (SBOM generation, vulnerability management, penetration testing remediation).
- Experience with image acquisition, computer vision, image processing, or scientific instrumentation.