At a Glance
- Tasks: Own the embedded software platform for cutting-edge propulsion systems in aerospace and robotics.
- Company: Join Alpha Machines, a pioneering hardware startup led by experienced founders.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, equity stake, and the chance to shape the future of physical AI.
- Other info: Dynamic startup environment with opportunities for significant career growth.
- Why this job: Be the first firmware engineer and make a real impact on critical infrastructure projects.
- Qualifications: 5+ years in embedded systems with expertise in ARM Cortex-M and embedded C/C++.
The predicted salary is between 80000 - 120000 £ per year.
Alpha Machines is a well-funded London-based hardware startup founded by repeat unicorn founders to build critical infrastructure for the physical AI economy. The company designs and manufactures advanced power electronics and propulsion systems for aerospace, defense, and robotics, leveraging its proprietary AlphaOS AI platform to re-industrialize Europe through vertically integrated manufacturing.
As the first firmware hire, you will own the entire embedded software platform for Alpha Machines' propulsion systems. You'll architect the RTOS, hardware abstraction layer, and bootloaders while bridging the gap between Simulink control models and real-time execution. Your work ensures reliability and performance in safety‑critical applications across aerospace and robotics.
Location: London, UK
Why this role is remarkable:
- Join a high‑pedigree founding team of repeat unicorn founders as the first embedded software hire, gaining massive ownership over the firmware architecture and stack.
- Work on mission‑critical hardware where your code directly drives physical systems in aerospace and defense, contributing to the re‑industrialization of Europe.
- Receive a significant founding‑team equity stake in a well‑funded startup building the fundamental infrastructure for the next generation of physical AI.
What You Will Do:
- Architect and own the complete embedded firmware platform, including RTOS integration, hardware abstraction layers, and secure bootloaders for ARM Cortex‑M targets.
- Implement deterministic communication stacks for CAN, DroneCAN, and SPI, ensuring high‑reliability data transfer and fault tolerance for safety‑critical drone applications.
- Develop the code generation toolchain using Embedded Coder to translate complex MATLAB/Simulink control models into high‑performance, deployed embedded C/C++ firmware.
The ideal candidate:
- Has 5+ years of experience building RTOS‑based embedded platforms from hardware bring‑up through production, with deep proficiency in ARM Cortex‑M microcontrollers.
- Demonstrates expert‑level mastery of embedded C/C++, interrupt‑driven architectures, and peripheral driver development for resource‑constrained environments.
- Possesses hands‑on hardware expertise, including reading schematics and using oscilloscopes, combined with experience in model‑based design toolchains like Simulink and Embedded Coder.
Founding Firmware Engineer (£80k-£120k + Equity) at Alpha Machines in London employer: Jack & Jill
At Jack & Jill, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer that fosters a dynamic and innovative work culture. Our team enjoys a range of benefits including flexible working arrangements, professional development opportunities, and a collaborative environment that encourages creativity and growth. Located in a vibrant area, we offer unique advantages such as access to cutting-edge technology and the chance to work with industry leaders in AI-driven marketing strategies.
