The posting
eleQtron develops and operates full-stack quantum computers based on trapped-ion technology. Quantum computing is a new computing paradigm rapidly approaching commercial viability. Our unique approach combines laser-cooled trapped ions with microwave control and tailored magnetic fields. Our next-generation computing machines under development will be able to find solutions to problems that are out of reach today, thus enabling new innovative products and services for a brighter future.
We are looking for a Senior Embedded (ARM) Engineer (m/f/d) to join us in Hamburg or Siegen and own the real-time firmware that turns our control electronics into a working quantum computer. You will work on our next-generation system, where the control electronics are being integrated into a single, highly integrated chip. You sit at the heart of the machine, between the hardware that generates the pulses and the higher-level software that describes the experiments. Timing is not a detail here; it is the product. You are the person who makes sure the right signal reaches the ions at the right nanosecond, reliably, run after run.
Responsibilities:
- Own the embedded firmware on our ARM-based control platform, from architecture through implementation to on-hardware debugging
- Develop and maintain the real-time software layer that coordinates pulse sequencing, timing, and data flow across our highly integrated control chip
- Write and maintain the low-level drivers and board support the hardware relies on
- Guarantee deterministic, low-latency behaviour under hard real-time constraints
- Lead firmware bring-up together with our electronics and physics teams, and debug at the boundary where software meets signal
- Define the firmware architecture and engineering practices — build, test, and release processes for the embedded layer as the system matures
- Contribute to the interfaces between the embedded layer and the rest of the stack, so experiments defined in software run correctly on the machine
Required Skills:
- 5+ years of professional embedded software development for real-time or timing-critical systems
- Deep command of C (and ideally C++) on ARM platforms, working close to the hardware
- Experience with bare-metal and/or RTOS environments, and a clear understanding of when each is appropriate
- Comfortable reading schematics and datasheets, and debugging real hardware with oscilloscopes, logic analysers, and JTAG
- Strong grasp of real-time concepts: interrupts, DMA, timing, concurrency, and determinism
- A track record of bringing up firmware on new hardware, not only maintaining existing systems
- Ability to collaborate effectively with experimental physicists and engineers, and to turn imprecise physical requirements into robust firmware
- Strong adaptability and a quick learning mindset
- Good proficiency in English (written and spoken)
Nice to have (Bonus)
- Experience on highly integrated SoCs, particularly ARM+FPGA platforms such as Xilinx Zynq / RFSoC
- Working alongside FPGA/digital-electronics engineers at the software–gateware boundary
- Rust for embedded systems
- Embedded Linux on ARM (Cortex-A), including driver and kernel-module work
- Signal processing or control-loop implementation on embedded targets
- Experience with high-speed data acquisition or precision timing systems
- Familiarity with laboratory, scientific, or measurement instrumentation
- Prior experience with quantum computing or other deep-tech domains
What you can expect from eleQtron:
- Competitive salary: We value our team members and therefore provide remunerations that reflect this, additionally rewarding achievements
- Flexible working hours: We offer personal freedom through a variety of flexible work schedules
- Team spirit: In our international and diverse team, and with our regular team events, having fun at work is simply part of the culture
- Further development: We want to grow together and so we offer our team members needs-based, individualized further training as well as plenty of room for personal development
- Wellness Package: We offer health-promoting benefits such as fitness programs like UrbanSportsClub to support your well-being
- Bike Leasing: Stay Mobile and Sustainable with Our Company Bike Leasing Program
- Moving Benefits: A warm welcome! We are happy to support employees who move for us with a bonus
- At the forefront: Work at the forefront of technology, where academic research meets commercial applications
- Modern workplace: We have a high-quality infrastructure with laboratory space, offices and meeting rooms
