Hardware, Firmware and Embedded Software Electronic Engineer Job Opportunity 2026 – CSIR (Stellenbosch, Western Cape)

The **Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR)** is inviting applications for a **Hardware, Firmware and Embedded Software Electronic Engineer** position within its **Technology for Special Operations Impact Area** in the **Defence and Security Cluster**. This permanent opportunity is ideal for experienced Electronic Engineers with expertise in embedded systems, firmware development, PCB design, and digital hardware who are looking to contribute to cutting-edge research and technology development in South Africa. Position Details * **Position:** Hardware, Firmware and Embedded Software Electronic Engineer * **Company:** Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) * **Job Type:** Permanent * **Department:** Defence and Security Cluster – Technology for Special Operations * **Location:** Stellenbosch, Western Cape, South Africa * **Reference Number:** **315067** About the Role The successful candidate will be responsible for designing, developing, testing, and qualifying analogue and digital electronic hardware, firmware, and embedded software for advanced electronic modules and sub-systems. The role involves working on innovative technologies that support South Africa's defence and security capabilities. Key Responsibilities Successful candidates will: * Interpret user and system requirements. * Develop detailed engineering specifications. * Prepare test plans and procedures. * Design analogue and digital electronic hardware. * Develop firmware for microcontroller units (MCUs). * Implement firmware on digital and mixed-signal hardware. * Design and simulate electronic circuits. * Capture electronic schematics. * Design printed circuit boards (PCBs). * Develop FPGA and CPLD solutions using VHDL. * Debug hardware and firmware designs. * Perform subsystem and system integration. * Conduct functional, qualification, and acceptance testing. * Prepare technical documentation, production data packs, and build history files. * Plan and manage engineering projects, budgets, resources, timelines, and risks. * Liaise with suppliers, clients, and project stakeholders. Minimum Requirements Applicants must have: * Bachelor of Engineering (BEng) in Electronic Engineering. * Minimum **3 years' experience** in: * Firmware development. * Digital hardware design. * Mixed-signal electronic design. * Experience with: * Digital and mixed-signal PCB design. * Hardware debugging. * PCB layout design. * Embedded firmware development. * Proficiency in the **C programming language**. * Strong technical documentation skills. * Ability to work comfortably in Linux environments and command-line interfaces. Advantageous Qualifications and Experience Preference will be given to candidates with: * Master's Degree in Electronic Engineering. * FPGA and CPLD development using Vivado or Quartus. * VHDL development. * STM platform experience. * Altium PCB design software experience. * High-speed digital and analogue hardware design experience. Benefits The CSIR offers: * Learning and development opportunities. * Competitive market-related remuneration. * Total Cost to Company (CTC) salary package. * Pension fund contributions. * Medical aid. * Risk insurance benefits. * Recognition through the CSIR Excellence Awards. Important Information Applicants must: * Be South African citizens. * Be able to obtain a valid security clearance. * Not hold dual citizenship. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. Why Apply? This is an exciting opportunity to work with one of South Africa's leading research institutions, contributing to advanced electronic engineering solutions that support national defence, innovation, and technological advancement while working alongside highly skilled research and engineering teams. **Location:** Stellenbosch, Western Cape **Job Type:** Permanent

This full-time opportunity at CSIR is based in Stellenbosch • Western Cape and is suitable for candidates interested in building experience in Hardware, Firmware and Embedded Software Electronic Engineer Job Opportunity 2026 – CSIR (Stellenbosch, Western Cape). Review the requirements carefully and make sure your application highlights the most relevant strengths for the role.

Roles like this can help candidates strengthen their professional experience, improve industry-specific skills, and grow within a structured working environment. If you are targeting opportunities in mid-level work, this opening may be a strong addition to your job search.