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JA
Joby Aviation
Core Software Services Lead
Career Insights for Embedded Software Engineer
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What they do
An Embedded Software Engineer designs or improves the embedded computer software that supports specialized hardware for certain products, devices or systems. Oversees the entire software development process. Analyzes customer or user needs, designs programs, writes code or instructs computer programmers, tests design, and documents programs. May assist with upgrades or maintenance.
$160,457 / year median in California
+11% projected growth
Job Description
Core Software Services Lead
Joby Aviation
•
Santa Cruz, California
•
CONTRACTOR
Updated 09/09/2026 Job Description Job Summary Company Overview Imagine a piloted air taxi that takes off vertically, then quietly carries you and your fellow passengers over the congested city streets below, enabling you to spend more time with the people and places that matter most. At Joby, weve been working to make that dream a reality since 2009 and were now in the final stages of certifying our aircraft with the FAA. With plans to launch our aircraft in the US and Dubai, were now scaling manufacturing and preparing for the launch of our commercial service. Overview Joby's Flight Research group is looking for a talented, driven individual to lead embedded software and avionics development for innovative aircraft configurations and automation solutions. This role combines hands-on technical contribution with some light management responsibilities to keep the team organized and productive. The lead will be a key stakeholder in defining integration paths and fostering collaboration across Flight Research and Joby. As an agile, and cohesive team, we value initiative, adaptability, and the ability to work across a broad range of disciplines to sustain program momentum. Responsibilities Lead the design, development, and execution of embedded flight software and compute solutions for new aircraft and autonomy applications. Provide technical leadership and mentorship for a small, multi-disciplinary team (embedded, electrical, avionics). Drive critical software trade studies, architecture choices, and tool decisions. Collaborate with cross-functional teams (GNC, Flight Test, Aero, Hardware, Program, etc.) on milestone execution, vehicle bring-up, and integration. Contribute directly to the software architecture and codebase while supporting the team in delivering robust, reliable solutions. Design and drive development of embedded systems test frameworks including automated testing, hardware in the loop testing, and software in the loop testing. Required Proven ability to balance leadership, management, and direct technical contribution in a fast-paced environment. Strong background in real-time, safety-critical embedded software development. Experience developing and integrating fit-to-purpose compute solutions. Experience with hardened/real time linux platforms. Expert-level in C++, Python, and Git. Track record of bringing complex products to market. This position must meet US export control compliance requirements, therefore a candidate must qualify as a "US Person" as defined by 22 C.F.R. 120.15. "US Person" includes US Citizens, lawful permanent residents, refugees, or asylees. Desired Experience contributing to developer experience (DevX) workstreams, including CI/CD pipelines, and associated tooling to support a high-performing software team. Proven track record of leading agile software teams in robotics, ground vehicles, or aerospace applications in a fast-paced environment. Experience with the Bazel build system. Experience with Rust Compensation at Joby is a combination of base pay and Restricted Stock Units (RSUs). The target base pay for this position is $183,000 - $252,000/yr. The compensation package will be determined by job-related knowledge, skills, and experience. Joby also offers a comprehensive benefits package, including paid time off, healthcare benefits, a 401(k) plan with a company match, an employee stock purchase plan (ESPP), short-term and long-term disability coverage, life insurance, and more. Additional Information Joby is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Job and company information not to be copied, shared, scraped, or otherwise disseminated without explicit consent of JSfirm, LLC.Benefits
- Paid Time Off (PTO)
- 401(k) Plans
- Employee Stock Options (ESOs)
- Dental Insurance