The Role
Design and implement safe, robust firmware for flight control systems. Develop sensor, control, communications, and navigation firmware; improve testing automation; debug production issues; and assist in local and remote flight testing.
Summary Generated by Built In
Pivotal is the leader in the emerging market of electric Vertical Takeoff and Landing (eVTOL) aircraft. We design, develop, and manufacture light eVTOL aircraft and are renowned for the BlackFly aircraft the world's first light eVTOL to fly manned missions and enter the consumer market.
Efficient, compact, and simple, Pivotal aircraft are designed for a wide range of consumer, public service, and defense applications. Our distinctive tilt-aircraft architecture and scalable platform have been flying for over 10 years. Last year we announced our next-generation aircraft, the Helix, which is rapidly progressing toward general release and scalable production in 2026.
Mobility is one of the most highly-valued areas of modern technology investments. This is the right company, in the right space, the right strategy, at the right time. If you are ready for adventure, we invite you to join our amazing team and grow with us.
About the job
As a firmware engineer, you are responsible for designing and implementing a safe, robust and extensible firmware architecture. Your work constitutes the backbone of the aircraft flight control system. You will participate in flight testing to experience the aircraft systems first-hand.
Responsibilities
- Develop software/firmware for projects related to sensors, control systems, communications, and navigation
- Improve testing automation, software quality, data collection, analysis and validation
- Debug issues in production, determine the root cause and apply fixes in a timely manner
- Assist in flight testing both locally and at remote sites
Qualifications
- B.S. in Software Engineering, Computer Science, Computer Engineering, or similar
- 2+ years of professional experience
- Strong software skills (C/C++, Python) and experience with ARM microcontrollers
- Hands-on experience through employment, student teams, and/or co-op internships
- Experience with real-time systems, Linux development, and low level communication protocols (CAN, SPI, I2C, UART)
- Familiarity with control systems, robotics, and/or sensors
Bonus Qualifications
- Experience with embedded security
- Experience with BLE
Attributes aligned with Core Values
- Demonstrates a proactive safety mindset by embedding safety into daily operations, identifying and mitigating risks through assessments and training, encouraging open dialogue on safety concerns, and continuously improving protocols to ensure a safe work environment.
- Puts customers at the center of every action by deeply understanding their challenges, delivering exceptional value, and striving to exceed expectations to support their success as our core purpose.
- Actively seeks and values diverse stakeholder perspectives, builds cross-functional relationships, and fosters trust through empathetic, fact-based communication—committing to shared decisions for the greater good.
- Drives results with clarity and purpose by focusing on what matters most, adapting to change, taking initiative, and owning outcomes while aligning actions with a clear understanding of success at every level.
- Navigates ambiguity with resilience and bold thinking, challenges the status quo, and combines innovative ideas with practical best practices to overcome obstacles and drive progress.
- Fosters a high-performance culture grounded in respect, professionalism, and support—balancing high expectations with a healthy, collaborative environment and being a trusted, dependable teammate.
Applicants must be eligible for employment in the United States and willing to work onsite at our HQ office in Palo Alto, CA.
Pivotal offers a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, vision, and 401k plans.
Pivotal is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Pivotal does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, non-disqualifying physical or mental disability, national origin, veteran status or any other basis covered by appropriate law. All employment is decided on the basis of qualifications, merit, and business need.
Skills Required
- B.S. in Software Engineering, Computer Science, Computer Engineering, or similar
- 2+ years of professional experience
- Strong software skills in C/C++ and Python
- Experience with ARM microcontrollers
- Hands-on embedded experience via employment, student teams, or co-op internships
- Experience with real-time systems
- Linux development experience
- Experience with low-level communication protocols (CAN, SPI, I2C, UART)
- Familiarity with control systems, robotics, and/or sensors
- Willingness and ability to work onsite at Palo Alto, CA and eligibility to work in the U.S.
- Experience with embedded security
- Experience with BLE
Am I A Good Fit?
Get Personalized Job Insights.
Our AI-powered fit analysis compares your resume with a job listing so you know if your skills & experience align.
Success! Refresh the page to see how your skills align with this role.
The Company
What We Do
Pivotal, founded by Melinda French Gates, is a group of organizations dedicated to accelerating social progress for women and young people globally. Through a combination of philanthropy, strategic investments, and advocacy, the organization works to drive momentum in areas with the greatest potential for impact. By supporting leaders and innovative ideas, Pivotal aims to expand women's power and influence, ultimately fostering a more equitable and inclusive future for everyone.
