Senior Embedded Software Engineer - Android | JobSetuu

Description

Job Overview

• Source: Arbeitnow
• Location: Berlin, Berlin, Germany
• Job Type: Full-Time

Job Description

About the role

As a Senior Embedded Engineer in SumUp's Hardware Tribe, you will be part of a small and highly skilled cross-functional team working alongside Hardware Engineers, Product Managers, QA Engineers, and more. You will play a central role in bringing up SumUp's next-generation Android-based payment devices — from bootloader and kernel all the way through to framework integration and validation.

This is a relatively new role as SumUp transitions to the Android platform for its in-house hardware products. Unlike most Android devices, our hardware is a highly customised, security-focused payment device built from scratch — requiring a deep understanding of both embedded hardware and software.

The role is based on-site in our office in Berlin. We believe in the power of face-to-face conversations that happen organically when working next to one another.

About the team

You have probably used our card readers to buy a cappuccino or pay your hairdresser already. In Hardware, we are passionate about creating beautifully designed card payment devices and accessories that enable our merchants to start, run, and grow their own businesses. In doing so, we deal with a diverse range of engineering topics — industrial and electronic design, embedded systems, all the way to mobile apps and backend services.

We believe in open communication and constant learning over strict rules. If you're looking for the chance to innovate and help millions of small independent merchants succeed — join us!

What you'll do

• Perform system bring-up for the Android Embedded platform, including bootloader, kernel, and driver integration
• Develop and integrate SumUp custom modules — including kernel drivers, power management, and connectivity components
• Maintain and improve the build system, ensuring stability and scalability across the platform
• Debug hardware and software issues at the protocol level (I2C, SPI, UART, SDIO, etc.)
• Carry out testing and validation to ensure new releases are delivered with the right quality and on time
• Collaborate closely with Hardware Engineers, QA, Product Managers, and Manufacturing/Supply Chain teams
• Independently deliver features on Android OS and contribute to a culture of engineering excellence within the Hardware Tribe

You'll be great for this role if:

• You have 5+ years of professional experience in embedded systems development with a strong focus on Android & AOSP
• You have hands-on experience debugging hardware interfaces at the protocol level (I2C, SPI, UART, SDIO, etc.)
• You have deep knowledge of the Android OS architecture — from bootloader (U-Boot, Little Kernel) and kernel to the framework and services
• You have expert-level proficiency in C programming for embedded Linux environments
• You have hands-on experience with at least one of the following platforms: Qualcomm Snapdragon or MediaTek
• You have solid understanding of embedded security concepts: Secure Boot, TrustZone (TEE), dm-verity, file-based encryption, and hardware-backed key storage
• You have proficiency with embedded debugging tools (e.g., JTAG, logic analyzers, kernel debuggers)

Why you should join SumUp

• The opportunity to work on large scale fintech products used by millions of small businesses around the world
• A dedicated annual Learning & Development budget for attending conferences and/or advancing your career through further education
• Enrollment onto our virtual stock ownership program - you will own a stake in SumUp's future success
• A corporate pension scheme 
• 28 days paid leave + 1 for birthday 
• You'll attend global offsites and/or hackathons.
• You'd enjoy other great benefits such as Urban Sports Club subsidy, Kita placement assistance, subsidized office lunches and other location-tailored benefits, Babbel language platform subscription and more!

Find more English Speaking Jobs in Germany on Arbeitnow

Expert Career Tips for Senior Embedded Software Engineer - Android Roles

To succeed in a competitive market as a Senior Embedded Software Engineer - Android, you need more than just technical skills. Here are some expert strategies to elevate your profile:

• Build a Strong Portfolio: For technical roles, a clean GitHub or a personal project site is essential. For non-technical roles, a case study portfolio demonstrating problem-solving and impact is equally valuable. Show, don't just tell, what you have achieved in your previous positions.
• Master the Narrative: When interviewing, use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers. Quantify your results wherever possible—mentioning "increased efficiency by 20%" is much more impactful than saying "improved efficiency."
• Continuous Learning: The industry moves fast. Whether it's staying updated with the latest AI tools or mastering a new management methodology, continuous professional development is key. Consider obtaining industry-recognized certifications that align with Senior Embedded Software Engineer - Android requirements.
• Networking: Connect with other professionals in similar roles. Join online communities, attend webinars, and engage in meaningful discussions on professional social networks. Often, the best opportunities come through referrals and community engagement.
• Soft Skills Matter: Communication, empathy, and leadership are often the deciding factors between two equally qualified technical candidates. Cultivate these skills as they are universally valued across all industries and seniority levels.

Additionally, research the specific company's culture and values. Tailoring your application to show how you align with their mission can significantly increase your chances of moving forward in the process.

Salary & Compensation

Salary not disclosed; typically competitive for the role.

Work Arrangement

Type: On-Site

Standard business hours at the office.

Comprehensive Application Strategy & Hiring Process

Applying for a new role is a marathon, not a sprint. Follow this strategic approach to maximize your success rate:

1. Initial Research & Tailoring

Don't send the same resume to every employer. Spend at least 30 minutes researching the company. Look for recent news, their product roadmap, and their team structure. Modify your summary and core competencies to reflect the specific keywords found in the job description.

2. The Perfect Cover Letter

If the application allows for a cover letter, use it to tell a story that your resume cannot. Explain why you are passionate about this specific company and how your unique background makes you the perfect fit for the challenges they are currently facing.

3. Navigating the Multi-Stage Interview

Most modern hiring processes involve 3-5 stages. This typically includes a recruiter screen, a technical or skill-based assessment, a peer interview, and a final leadership round. Prepare for each stage differently: focus on enthusiasm and fit for the recruiter, technical depth for the assessment, and strategic vision for the leadership round.

4. Post-Interview Follow-Up

Always send a personalized thank-you note within 24 hours of each interview. Reference a specific topic discussed during the call to demonstrate your active listening and genuine interest in the role.

By following these steps, you demonstrate a high level of professionalism and attention to detail that sets you apart from the average applicant.

Typical Interview Process

1. Resume screening
2. HR call
3. Skill interview
4. Final manager interview
5. Offer

Tip: Research the company's products and culture.

Global Market Intelligence & Relocation Insights

At JobSetuu, we specialize in helping talent navigate the global job market. Here is what you need to know about the current landscape in Berlin, Berlin, Germany and beyond:

The demand for skilled professionals is increasingly borderless. For roles based in Berlin, Berlin, Germany, understanding the local cost of living, visa requirements (if applicable), and cultural nuances is vital. If this is a remote role, consider the time zone alignment and the asynchronous communication culture of the hiring organization.

Relocation Support: Many forward-thinking companies offer relocation packages that include moving stipends, temporary housing, and legal assistance with work permits. When evaluating an offer, look beyond the base salary—consider the total compensation package, including equity, bonuses, and healthcare benefits.

Work-Life Balance Trends: Hybrid and remote work have become standard in many regions. Research the local labor laws and common practices regarding work hours and vacation time to ensure the role aligns with your lifestyle goals.

Leveraging JobSetuu's tools can help you compare salaries across different cities and understand the "purchasing power" of your potential offer, ensuring you make an informed decision for your long-term career path.

Skills & Competency Roadmap for Professional Development

To remain competitive in Professional Development, we recommend focusing on the following core competencies over the next 12-18 months:

• Technical Mastery: Deepen your expertise in the core tools and languages relevant to your field. For developers, this might be cloud architecture; for marketers, it might be data-driven attribution modeling.
• AI Augmentation: Learn how to leverage generative AI and automation tools to increase your productivity. Understanding how to integrate these technologies into your workflow is becoming a non-negotiable skill.
• Leadership & Strategy: Even in individual contributor roles, the ability to think strategically and lead projects from inception to completion is highly valued. Focus on stakeholder management and high-level project planning.
• Data Literacy: The ability to interpret data and use it to drive decisions is essential across all business functions. Familiarize yourself with data visualization and basic analytical concepts.

By investing in these areas, you not only prepare yourself for the role you are applying for today but also build a resilient foundation for the opportunities of tomorrow.

Apply via JobSetuu

Discover your next career milestone on JobSetuu. This Senior Embedded Software Engineer - Android position is part of our commitment to bringing you the most relevant and high-impact job openings globally. At JobSetuu, we simplify your job search by aggregating premier listings and providing the tools you need to stand out. Don't miss the chance to elevate your professional journey—explore more opportunities and career insights on our platform today.