Embedded Systems Engineer, Air Management
Whisper Aero
Our Company
Whisper Aero is pioneering a more compelling and connected future by delivering cleaner, quieter, and more efficient propulsion solutions. Today's open rotor propulsion systems are challenged by safety, noise, and performance limitations at all scales. Whisper's breakthrough technologies allow aircraft to fly anywhere at any time without disturbing communities, at greater speeds, and with incredible improvements in efficiency and cost. Their innovations also enable a new generation of air moving products that can blend into the soundscapes of daily life. Whisper was founded by industry veterans, Mark Moore and Ian Villa, and continues to innovate a future that’s as considerate as it is compelling with its world-class team in Tennessee.
About the Role
We’re looking for a versatile Embedded Systems Engineer to lead the electrical and firmware development of a next-generation air management system — from concept through production in Nashville, TN. In this role, you’ll design and implement the embedded hardware and firmware that control key product functions, ensuring reliability, manufacturability, and long-term supportability. You’ll be responsible for creating schematics, PCB layouts, and embedded control firmware, while also supporting system integration, validation, and manufacturing readiness. A significant part of your work will involve collaborating with cross-functional teams to bring up new hardware, validate firmware developed by other engineers, and ensure seamless communication between electrical, mechanical, and software subsystems. This role blends hands-on design, embedded programming, and practical problem-solving, making it ideal for an engineer who enjoys working from the bench to the production floor and seeing their designs come to life.
What You’ll Do
- · Design and develop electrical schematics and PCB layouts for embedded control systems, selecting components and ensuring manufacturability.
- · Validate and test firmware from motor controller OEMs.
- · Architect and implement embedded firmware for microcontrollers (e.g., STM32, ESP32, or similar), handling I/O, sensors, and communications.
- · Design and document wire harnesses, specifying wire gauge, connector types, and routing for robustness and EMI mitigation.
- · Develop and debug low-level firmware in C/C++ for control loops, timing-critical tasks, and interface drivers.
- · Implement and tune communication protocols such as I²C, SPI, UART, CAN, and RS-485.
- · Integrate and manage user interface components including buttons, LEDs, potentiometers, and displays.
- · Support system bring-up and validation, performing hardware-in-the-loop testing and troubleshooting at both board and system levels.
- · Collaborate with mechanical engineers to ensure PCBs and harnesses align with mechanical constraints and assembly requirements.
- · Work with suppliers and contract manufacturers to validate part selection, optimize DFM/DFT, and support production readiness.
- · Generate and maintain comprehensive design documentation: schematics, firmware source, BOMs, harness drawings, and test procedures.
Basic Qualifications
- · Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering or a related field.
- · 5+ years of experience in electrical engineering roles, with experience in embedded
- · Proficiency in electrical CAD tools (e.g., Altium Designer, Eagle, or similar).
- · Experience working with embedded systems and microcontrollers.
- · Experience designing PCBs with user interface elements such as LEDs, buttons, and potentiometers.
- · Strong understanding of wire harness design, including electrical and mechanical considerations.
- · Hands-on experience working with manufacturers to source components and implement DFM (Design for Manufacturability).
- · Knowledge of EMI/EMC design considerations and best practices.
- · Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment.
- · Excellent problem-solving skills and attention to detail.
Bonus Qualifications
- · Experience designing products for outdoor or rugged environments.
- · Familiarity with battery-powered systems and low-power design techniques.
- · Experience with regulatory compliance (e.g., UL, CE, FCC).
- · Strong project management skills and experience leading electrical design projects.
- · Experience with mechanical CAD tools and rapid prototyping.
Benefits:
- Top-tier Benefits: 100% paid Medical, dental, and vision for employees, 75% paid for dependents
- PTO & Federal Holidays: Starting at four weeks of paid time off for vacation, sick, and personal days
- Competitive Salary: Value-based compensation, plus enjoy Tennessee’s no-income-tax life
- End of Year Bonuses: For eligible employees
- We always have beverages and snacks available to energize you throughout the day, with paid team meals based on office demands.
- 401(k)
- Relocation Assistance
- Professional Development Stipend
Whisper Aero is proud to be an Equal Opportunity employer committed to diversity and inclusivity in the workplace. All aspects of employment are decided on the basis of merit, qualifications, and business needs. We do not discriminate based upon race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, age, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, gender identity or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. Whisper Aero also participates in E-Verify and will provide the Social Security Administration (SSA) and, if necessary, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), with information from each applicant's Form I-9 to confirm work authorization.