About the role
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
Requirements
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