Embedded Systems Engineer
Description
SFU Rocketry is seeking Embedded Systems Engineers to join our Control Systems Subteam. This team is responsible for the complete rocket control system, which governs both the Engine Control System (ECS) and the Aerodynamic Control System (ACS).
The ECS manages valves, sensors, and actuator control for reliable engine operation, while the ACS provides flight stability and maneuverability through aerodynamic fin actuation. As part of this team, you will contribute to the design and implementation of hardware, firmware, and software that work together under extreme conditions of vibration, high G-forces, and thermal stress.
This role offers a unique opportunity to gain experience in custom PCB design, embedded firmware development, real-time operating systems (RTOS), FPGA acceleration, and integrated control software for safety-critical aerospace applications.
Responsibilities
PCB & Hardware Design
Schematic capture, PCB layout, and high-reliability design for aerospace environments (vibration, EMI, thermal stress)
Sensor selection and integration (IMU, barometer, GNSS), including enclosures and EMI shielding
Power system design: budgeting, regulation, and noise filtering for reliable operation under load
RF communication design, including antenna placement and protocol implementation
Robust connectors and wiring for engine and aerodynamic control interfaces
Firmware Development
Implementation of time-critical and safety-critical embedded firmware (C/C++) for control tasks
Driver development for sensors, actuators, and communication peripherals (SPI, I2C, UART, CAN, RF)
Integration of control algorithms (PID, thrust vectoring, actuator control) under real-time constraints
Development of fault-tolerant firmware to maintain operation during high vibration and transient conditions
FPGA & Advanced Computing
FPGA programming (Verilog/VHDL) for high-speed matrix/vector computations in control loops
Parallel computing optimizations to offload intensive tasks from the microcontroller
Hardware-software co-design for integrating FPGA acceleration into the control system architecture
Attendance of Team Meetings
Regularly attend the team meetings and work sessions hosted by your Lead
Actively contribute to the synchronization, brainstorming, discussions, and decisions made within your team meetings
Key Qualifications
Demonstrated technical abilities in embedded systems engineering (hardware, firmware, and/or software)
Knowledge of electronics design stages (schematic capture, PCB layout, assembly, validation)
Proficiency with microcontroller programming (C/C++) and embedded software development
Familiarity with real-time operating systems (RTOS) for scheduling safety-critical tasks
Experience with FPGA design for high-speed matrix/vector computations is a strong asset
Understanding of control algorithms (PID, feedback, thrust vectoring, actuator response)
Knowledge of communication protocols (SPI, I2C, UART, CAN, RF)
Exposure to aerospace reliability challenges (vibration, EMI, thermal stress) and mitigation methods
Experience with ECAD/MCAD and lab tools (Altium Designer, LTspice, SOLIDWORKS, oscilloscopes, logic analyzers) is desirable
Statement from SFU Rocketry
SFU Rocketry is an inclusive and equal-opportunity organization. We welcome, include, and respect all regardless of race, color, ancestry, place of origin, religion, family status, marital status, physical disability, mental disability, sex, age, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, political belief, or conviction of a criminal or summary conviction offense unrelated to employment.
SFU Rocketry is Simon Fraser University’s largest comprehensive design team in the University’s history, and has a strong reputation to uphold. Our members are highly sought-after and have been actively recruited for permanent and co-op intern industry positions. We operate as a professional organization, where professional conduct is required and expected from all SFU Rocketry members at all times.
