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

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

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

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 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 through 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.