There’s the cushy comfort of the mundane. Then there’s the thrill of pioneering work. Being here is the latter.
It started with our first Zero S, shipped in 2010 – a bold step into the future of electric mobility. Since then, we’ve been at the forefront of the electric vehicle movement, delivering award-winning motorcycles and electrifying sport and utility vehicles for leading OEMs. With cutting-edge technology and relentless craftsmanship, we push the boundaries of performance and sustainability, making every ride more thrilling and the world a little more sustainable.
We’ve only scratched the surface. Join us in leading the revolution of electric mobility.
What you Will Do:
At Zero Motorcycles, we are pushing the boundaries of technology and design. The firmware team at Zero designs and develops the cutting-edge firmware that runs on all of Zero's high-performance motorcycles.
We are looking to add to our nimble team an inquisitive teammate who relishes the thrills of a quick paced environment. An enthusiastic problem-solver who can spot a good idea and pursue it no matter who it came from. If you fit that description and have built embedded diagnostic systems preferably in the automotive space, we would love to talk to you.
Key Responsibilities:
Define high level system architecture for systems on the motorcycle power train, such as battery monitoring system, all sensor inputs, motor controller and high current busses, and gauges/rider interface
Design, develop, code, test and debug systems software for power train systems
Analyze and enhance efficiency, stability, and scalability of system resources
Integrate and validate new product designs
Interface with hardware design and development.
Support software QA and optimize I/O performance
Conduct peer reviews of designs, features, and marketing/engineering specifications
Ensure these motorcycle systems meet requirements, release them for production and commercial deployment
Implementing and leading the team in building Unit tests and CI/CD tested code
Ensure projects are handed off to production for on time, fully qualified, quality manufacture on production schedule
Provide postproduction support
Mentor other entry- and mid-level engineers
Minimum of BS degree (MS preferred) in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or similar area
Minimum of 10 Years of professional engineering experience in related field
Extensive experience with embedded systems software, and hardware
Extensive experience developing in C environments
Experience with analog and digital circuit design; power electronics is a plus
Experience with automotive power train systems or EV systems preferred
Skills and Attributes
Strong embedded programming expertise in C programming
Experience in hands-on development and troubleshooting on embedded targets
Proven experience in embedded systems design with multitasking real-time operating systems
Familiarity with software configuration management tools, defect tracking tools, and peer review
Excellent knowledge of OS coding techniques, IP protocols, interfaces, and hardware subsystems
Problem solving and process-oriented design test and document is essential
Proficiency debugging embedded software systems
Familiarity with UARTs, JTAG, and oscilloscopes
Strong documentation and writing skills with attention to detail
Excellent communication skills
Adequate knowledge of reading schematics and data sheets for components
Ability to evaluate technologies and their fit to design specifications
Diligent, reliable, and tenacious
Location
Our culture is best experienced in person and this role is an onsite position, so the selected candidate will work in the Scotts Valley office — just a short drive from Santa Cruz beaches, and Silicon Valley. Hybrid work arrangements may be available to very strong candidates.
Travel Frequency: Travel for this role will be approximately 10%, including domestic and international travel.
Physical and Sensory Requirements:
Ability to communicate in real-time with internal and external partners.
Ability to navigate a lab/ manufacturing environment .
This role requires the ability to work on computers for extended periods of time, in face-to-face meetings.
Must be able to bend or stoop down to access files, including lifting of items or objects up to 30 lb.
We believe diversity is our strength, and inclusion is our foundation. As an Equal Opportunity Employer, we are committed to building a workplace where everyone—regardless of race, ethnicity, gender identity, sexual orientation, disability, age, or background—can thrive. We celebrate individuality, amplify diverse voices, and strive to foster an environment where everyone feels seen, heard, and empowered to do their best work. Together, we’re shaping a future that works for all.
The estimated salary range for a new hire in this position is $160,000 to $180,000. Actual salary may vary depending on job-related factors, which may include candidate's knowledge, skills, and experience. In addition to regular salary, Zero offers a comprehensive benefits package including health, life, and disability insurance, paid time off, and a 401(k) matching plan.