Sr. Embedded Firmware Engineer Manager
Date: Aug 14, 2025
Location: Rochester Hills, MI, US, 48309
Company: Gates Corporation
Are you inspired by challenging the status quo? Do you thrive in collaborative environments that drive results? If so, Gates could be for you.
Gates is a leading manufacturer of application-specific fluid power and power transmission solutions. We push the boundaries of material science to engineer solutions that continually exceed customer expectations.
Let's simplify it, think belts and hoses. Found in motorcycles, conveyor belts, cars, tractors, blenders, vacuum cleaners, bicycles, & 3D printers just to name a few. Because why not do it all?
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
We are seeking a highly skilled and motivated Embedded Firmware Manager to lead our multidisciplinary mechatronics development team. This role is ideal for a hands-on technical leader with deep expertise in embedded systems, motor control (FOC), IoT integration, and CANbus communication. You will be responsible for driving firmware architecture, development, and integration across a range of innovative electromechanical systems. This position reports to Gates Technical Director for New Technology Innovation and is responsible for developing, testing and supporting software for Mechatronic devices.
Key Responsibilities:
- Lead and mentor a team of embedded firmware engineers in the design, development, and validation of real-time embedded systems.
- Architect and implement firmware for motor control systems using Field-Oriented Control (FOC) techniques.
- Oversee integration of IoT connectivity and cloud communication protocols into embedded platforms.
- Ensure robust and efficient communication over CANbus and other automotive/industrial protocols.
- Collaborate cross-functionally with mechanical, electrical, and systems engineering teams to deliver cohesive mechatronic solutions.
- Drive best practices in firmware development including code reviews, unit testing, and documentation.
- Manage project timelines, resource allocation, and technical risk mitigation.
Other (% travel, working conditions, unusual work schedule):
- Office hours are normal.
- Travel to supplier facilities and plant and global facilities is required on an as needed basis.
Supervisory Responsibilities
- None.
- Leads projects with notable risk and complexity; develops the strategy for project execution.
- Provides technical leadership and consultation to management and peers.
Requirements and Preferred Skills
Required Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or related field.
- 8+ years of experience in embedded firmware development, with at least 3 years in a leadership or managerial role.
- Proven expertise in FOC motor control algorithms and implementation on microcontrollers or DSPs.
- Strong experience with CANbus communication protocols and tools (e.g., CANalyzer, CANoe).
- Familiarity with IoT protocols (MQTT, HTTP, BLE, etc.) and cloud integration.
- Proficient in C and real-time operating systems (RTOS).
- Excellent problem-solving, communication, and leadership skills.
Additional Qualifications:
- Experience with automotive or industrial safety standards (ISO 26262, IEC 61508).
- Knowledge of cybersecurity in embedded systems.
- Experience with Agile development methodologies.
- Competence in version control software like Git
- Fluency in automated testing procedures
- Understands and can articulate the technical merits and value embedded firmware within the Mechatronic scope.
- Work collaboratively with the Electronic Hardware engineering team
- Passionate, persuasive, articulate firmware professional capable of quickly establishing interest and credibility in how to design, deploy and operate mechatronics. Strong written, verbal, and chalk board skills
- Experience in enterprise applications, solutions, and data center infrastructures
- Ability to work with team members from around the globe/experience working with off-shore models
- Strong service attitude and a commitment to quality
Pay & Benefits
- Full-Time
- Bonus Eligible
- Relocation is not provided
- Medical, Dental, Vision insurance and other voluntary benefit options: benefits begin on the first day of the month immediately following your date of hire
- Eligible for 3 weeks of paid vacation + 11 holidays (9 scheduled & 2 floating) + 8 sick days. All vacation days are accrued
- 401(k): 3% company contribution and additional 3% company match
- Tuition Reimbursement
Why Gates?
Founded in 1911 in Denver, Colorado, Gates is publicly traded on the NYSE. While we might operate in a vast amount of time zones we operate as 'One Gates' and have a common goal of pushing the boundaries of materials science. We invest in our people, bringing real-world experience that enables us to solve our customers' diverse challenges of today and anticipate those of tomorrow.
Work Environment
Gates is an Equal Opportunity and is committed to ensuring equal employment opportunities for all job applicants and employees. Employment decisions are based upon job-related reasons regardless of race, sex, color, religion, age, disability, pregnancy, citizenship, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, genetic information, marital status, or any other consideration defined by law.
While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to sit; use hands and fingers to work with objects, tools, or controls; and use office equipment including computers, telephones, and/or copiers/scanners. The employee must frequently lift and/or move up to 10 pounds.
For individuals assigned and/or hired to work in Colorado, Gates is required by law to include a reasonable estimate of the compensation for this role. This compensation range is specific to the State of Colorado and takes into account various factors that are considered in making compensation decisions, including but not limited to the candidate's relevant experience, qualifications, skills, competencies, and proficiency for the role.
Nearest Major Market: Detroit