Principal Software Engineer

We are looking for an experienced Principal Software Engineer to design, develop, and optimize embedded networking solutions with a strong focus on prplOS, RDK-B, and OpenWRT. The ideal candidate will have expertise in C, C++, Python, Yocto, Linux, WiFi, IoT protocols, and Embedded AI/ML, along with experience integrating prplOS-based networking solutions.

Key Responsibilities:

• Provide technical leadership in the design and architecture of prplOS and RDK-B based solutions.

• Design, develop, and maintain prplOS and prplMesh integration for various CPE targets.

• Drive best practices in modular architecture, performance optimization, and security within the team and organization.

• Develop, debug, and optimize embedded Linux-based firmware.

• Develop and enhance features for broadband gateways, and WiFi management.

• Optimize and integrate prplOS (OpenWRT and/or RDK-B) and Yocto based build environments.

• Design and implement robust WiFi networking and communication protocols (NATS, MQTT, TR-069, TR-369, etc.).

• Develop embedded AI/ML solutions for network performance optimization, such as predictive congestion management and adaptive QoS.

• Collaborate with software partners, hardware vendors, and cross-functional teams to deliver cohesive hardware and software solutions.

• Communicate technical concepts and project progress to leadership and non-technical stakeholders.

• Oversee the end-to-end lifecycle of prplOS-related projects, from initial concept to deployment and maintenance.

• Utilize project management tools and methodologies to track progress, manage risks, and ensure timely delivery of high-quality solutions.

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Embedded Systems, Computer Engineering, or a related field.

• 10 to 12+ years of experience in embedded software development.

• Proficiency in C, C++, and Python for embedded systems development.

• Strong experience with broadband gateways, Mesh WiFi, and networking hardware.

• Deep knowledge of prplOS, prplMesh, RDK-B, OpenWRT, and Yocto build systems.

• Experience with Qualcomm, Broadcom, or MediaTek WiFi chipset SDKs.

• Strong understanding of Linux kernel, drivers, and networking stacks.

• Expertise in WiFi networking, TCP/IP, DNS, DHCP, VLANs, and security protocols.

• Hands-on experience with communication protocols (NATS, TR-069, TR-369, MQTT, etc.).

• Familiarity with containerization technologies (Docker, LXC, crun).

• Excellent problem-solving and debugging skills using tools like gdb, Wireshark, and Valgrind.

• Adequate knowledge of schematics and data sheets for components.

Preferred Qualifications

• Understanding of communication protocols such as I2C, SPI, USB, and UART.

• Experience with edge computing and AI-driven networking optimizations.

• Knowledge of IoT protocols (Matter, MQTT, CoAP, etc.).

• Understanding of ARM, MIPS architectures, and real-time processing constraints.

• Experience with security hardening, secure boot, and Trusted Platform Modules (TPM).

• Familiarity with Agile development and DevOps/CI-CD practices.

• Participation in industry forums such as prplFoundation, OpenWiFi, etc.