Principal Software Engineer

Responsibilities

• Lead the design and implementation of real-time control systems for automated medical device manufacturing equipment.
• Define software architectures that integrate microcontrollers, PLCs, motion controllers, sensors, and human-machine interfaces.
• Design and optimize motion control solutions for high-precision automation, including servo and stepper motor control.
• Provide technical guidance on hardware selection, control strategies, safety interlocks, and network communication protocols.
• Serve as the primary software technical authority during design reviews, risk assessments, and design verification activities.
• Develop and maintain embedded firmware in assembly/C/C++ for microcontrollers (examples include 68000, ARM Cortex, Microchip, Maxim Integrated).
• Develop and maintain Windows Visual Studio HMI applications in C/C++/C#/WPF (BW-TEC HMI).
• Create structured PLC software (Ladder Logic, Function Block Diagram, Structured Text) across Allen-Bradley, Beckhoff, and Omron platforms.
• Implement deterministic communication between embedded controllers, PLCs, and supervisory systems (EtherNet/IP, Modbus, CAN, RS-485, SPI, I2C, etc.).
• Build user interfaces and operator controls through HMI systems for production environments.
• Ensure software modules are robust, maintainable, and traceable to design inputs and risk mitigations.
• Collaborate with mechanical, electrical, and process engineers to deliver integrated control solutions for precision motion, fluidics, robotics, and safety systems.
• Participate in design verification and validation testing, including protocol creation, execution, and documentation per QMS requirements.
• Support factory acceptance testing, site acceptance testing, and field support of deployed systems.
• Conduct root cause analysis and implementation of corrective actions for software-related field or production issues.
• Contribute to company-wide software standards for automation platforms and embedded systems.

Requirements

• Solid working knowledge of microcontrollers (ARM Cortex, Microchip, STM32, etc.), PLCs (Beckhoff, Omron, Allen-Bradley, etc.), FPGAs, sensors, and communication interfaces (I2C, SPI, UART, CAN, Ethernet, Modbus, Profinet).
• Strong experience with Microsoft Visual Studio development using C, C++, C#, and C# WPF.
• Expertise in IEC 61131-3 programming languages and embedded assembly/C/C++.
• Strong analytical and debugging skills using oscilloscopes, logic analyzers, and network tools.
• Excellent documentation, communication, and leadership capabilities.
• Ability to balance innovation with compliance and risk management.
• Proven leadership and mentoring abilities with collaborative, cross-functional work style.
• Master’s or bachelor’s degree in computer science, computer engineering, or related field.
• 8+ years developing software for microcontroller and PLC-based platforms with a Master’s degree or 10+ years with a degree, including at least 3 years in a technical leadership or principal engineer capacity.
• Proven track record of bringing products from concept through production.

Technologies

• ARM Cortex, Microchip, STM32, 68000, Maxim Integrated
• Beckhoff, Omron, Allen-Bradley
• FPGAs, Profinet, I2C, SPI, UART, CAN, Ethernet, Modbus, EtherNet/IP
• Ladder Logic, Function Block Diagram, Structured Text, IEC 61131-3
• Windows Visual Studio, C, C++, C#, C# WPF, HMI systems

Benefits

• 401(k) and 401(k) matching
• Dental, health, and vision insurance
• Life insurance and employee assistance program
• Health savings account
• Paid time off and parental leave
• Retirement plan

Language Skills

Ability to read, analyze, and interpret general business periodicals, professional journals, technical procedures, schematics and drawings; capable of writing reports, business correspondence, and procedure manuals; and able to present information to groups of managers, clients, and customers.

Physical Demands

Physical requirements include routine walking, bending, crouching, and occasional lifting up to 50 pounds. The role may require focus adjustments and color discrimination capabilities.

Work Environment

Mostly standard office conditions with occasional exposure to moving mechanical parts; minimal wet or humid conditions and limited contact with caustic or toxic chemicals. The environment is characterized by moderate noise levels typical of office settings with equipment and printers.

Pay

Salary range: $130,000.00 - $150,000.00 per year.

Job Type

Full-time

Work Location

On-site in Eden Prairie, Minnesota.