Lead Embedded AI & Real-Time OS Architect

Lead Embedded AI & Real-Time OS Architect

Location: Pisa, Italy

Employment Type: Permanent | Full-TimeWorking Arrangement: On-siteWe are partnering with a global technology organisation to recruit a highly experienced Embedded AI & Real-Time OS Architect for its advanced research and development team in Pisa, Italy.This is an opportunity to contribute to the development of next-generation intelligent embedded systems across the digital power and automotive sectors.The successful candidate will lead the design and development of embedded operating system architectures, combining deterministic real-time execution with emerging AI technologies.This role is particularly suited to an expert with deep knowledge of Linux kernel internals, real-time operating systems, low-level hardware architecture, and edge AI inference.Key ResponsibilitiesLead the architecture and design of embedded operating systems and middleware, integrating deterministic real-time execution with emerging agentic AI technologies.Develop and optimise operating system technologies to support efficient AI inference and heterogeneous computing resource scheduling.Conduct low-level performance analysis and optimisation across CPUs, GPUs, NPUs, memory, networking and other embedded hardware components.Improve system reliability, predictability and end-to-end latency for mission-critical embedded applications.Design solutions to minimise hardware resource contention and optimise system performance.Contribute to the development of next-generation embedded AI platforms for digital power and automotive applications.Collaborate with multidisciplinary engineering and research teams to address complex system-level architectural challenges.Essential RequirementsMaster's degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Electronic Engineering or a closely related discipline.

A PhD is advantageous.Deep understanding of Linux kernel internals and/or real-time operating systems such as Zephyr, FreeRTOS or ERIKA.Strong expertise in kernel subsystems, particularly scheduling, memory management and resource management.Solid knowledge of machine learning techniques, including CNNs, DNNs and SVMs.Experience with edge AI frameworks such as LiteRT / TensorFlow Lite, together with an understanding of deterministic AI inference.Excellent understanding of embedded hardware architectures, including SoC, MPU, MMU, interrupt controllers, cache and memory hierarchies, and memory virtualisation.Experience with ARM and/or RISC-V architectures, including approaches to reducing contention for shared hardware resources.Excellent programming skills in C and C++.Previous experience with Assembly programming and device driver development.Strong understanding of POSIX standards.Knowledge of distributed service-oriented architectures, particularly techniques for improving determinism and reducing end-to-end latency.Strong analytical, problem-solving, collaboration and communication skills.Professional fluency in English and the ability to work effectively in an international environment.Desirable ExperienceKnowledge of automotive software standards such as OSEK/VDX or AUTOSAR Classic.Advanced expertise in low-level embedded systems performance analysis and optimisation.Familiarity with functional safety standards, including ISO 26262 and IEC 61508.PhD or research background in operating systems, embedded computing, real-time systems or related technologies.Why Consider This Opportunity?Work on advanced embedded AI and real-time computing technologies.Influence the architecture of next-generation intelligent embedded systems.Contribute to technically challenging research and development projects.Collaborate with international experts across embedded systems, hardware architecture and artificial intelligence.Join a permanent, senior-level position with long-term technical impact.Location & Working ArrangementThis position is based in Pisa, Italy, and requires on-site working.Applications from international candidates who are open to relocating to Pisa are welcome.Interested?If you have a strong background in embedded operating systems, Linux kernel architecture, real-time computing and AI inference, we would be pleased to hear from you.Apply directly or get in touch to discuss the opportunity in confidence.