Senior Embedded Software Engineer (Motor Control & Real-Time Systems)
Location: Reading with Hybrid WFH
KO2's client, a cutting-edge and rapidly scaling start-up based in Reading, is looking for a Senior Embedded Software Engineer to play a key role in developing next-generation motor drive and propulsion systems.
This is a high-impact opportunity to work on advanced embedded platforms at the intersection of real-time control, power electronics, and high-performance firmware, helping to shape both product direction and engineering culture from an early stage.
What You'll Do
Design and implement real-time embedded firmware for ESC controllers and next-generation motor drive systems, from initial architecture through to production release
Develop and optimise motor control algorithms for BLDC motors, including field-oriented control, sensorless commutation, and current loop tuning
Integrate sensors and implement feedback control systems for position, speed, and current regulation
Own and implement communication stacks including CAN, UART, SPI, I2C, and DShot, and define telemetry interfaces
Optimise firmware for performance, memory efficiency, and deterministic real-time behaviour on resource-constrained microcontrollers
Collaborate closely with power electronics engineers to define hardware-firmware interfaces (gate drivers, current sensing, ADC configuration, protection logic)
Lead firmware architecture decisions including RTOS selection, scheduling strategies, and platform abstraction
Establish engineering best practices: version control, code reviews, testing frameworks, and CI/CD pipelines
Conduct system-level validation including hardware-in-the-loop testing, dynamometer integration, and field trialsRequired Skills and Experience
5+ years of hands-on experience in embedded C/C++ for real-time systems
Proven experience in motor control, power electronics, or high-reliability embedded systems
Experience in a technical lead or architect role, owning firmware from concept through production
Strong expertise in RTOS (e.g. FreeRTOS, Zephyr), including scheduling, interrupts, and deterministic timing
Experience implementing and debugging communication protocols (CAN, UART, SPI, I2C)
Strong debugging skills using oscilloscopes, logic analysers, and hardware tools
Proficiency with Git, CI/CD pipelines, unit testing, and modern development workflowsPreferred
Background in aerospace, defence, or UAV systems, particularly propulsion or ESC development
Knowledge of advanced motor control techniques (FOC, sensorless control, space vector modulation)
Familiarity with safety-critical standards (DO-178C, IEC 61508, MISRA C)
Understanding of power electronics fundamentals (PWM, gate drivers, current sensing, thermal considerationsWhat's on Offer
Opportunity to join a cutting-edge start-up at a pivotal growth stage
Work on industry-leading technology with real-world impact
Competitive salary, equity, and benefits package
Flexible and hybrid working options
A highly collaborative, ambitious, and technically driven culture.Apply today with an up-to-date CV and a member of the KO2 team will be in touch to progress your application
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