Founding Systems Software Engineer

ppAdapnex is building the software foundation for the next industrial revolution. As Europe races toward energy independence and industrial sovereignty, the physical retooling of our factories, robotics, and energy infrastructure is held back by archaic operational technology (OT). We are breaking this deadlock by providing a modern SDK and cloud platform that abstracts complex hardware across the entire product lifecycle: from a Raspberry Pi prototype to Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs)and custom embedded Linux boards. The industrial sector is at an inflection point, with customers calling for a transition away from legacy PLC environments in favor of flexible, software-centric architectures. /ppWe are an early-stage startup with a working MVP and our first paying customers. As our first engineering hire, you will take direct responsibility for our technical trajectory, from core SDK architecture to device connectivity and cloud services. This role is a fit if you combine high technical rigor with a pragmatic, problem-solving mindset and are someone who is comfortable facing shifting requirements and thrives on turning complex real-world feedback into elegant abstractions. You will operate with high autonomy, collaborate directly with early customers, and help build both the platform and the engineering culture from the ground up. /ph3The Role /h3ullibFoundational Architecture: /bOwn and architect the core abstractions underpinning our C++ SDK and cloud platform: From low-level Linux runtime interfaces and hardware bindings to deterministic execution models and device-to-cloud communication. /lilibCore Systems Connectivity: /bDesign low-latency runtime systems and build secure, resilient remote connectivity protocols connecting edge devices to our cloud infrastructure. /lilibDeveloper Tools DX: /bBuild ergonomic CLI tools and editor extensions that turn complex, safety-critical hardware deployments into a seamless, one-click build, test, and deploy workflow. /lilibCloud Infrastructure: /bDesign pragmatic, secure serverless cloud services that handle device telemetry, identity, authorization and big data services. /li /ulh3What We're Looking For /h3ullibMission-Driven Builder Mindset: /bYou care deeply about rebuilding European industrial strength, thrive in high-ambiguity environments and want true ownership. /lilibSystems Programming: /bDeep expertise in modern C++, including build systems (CMake) and testing frameworks (gtest). You possess a real-time, low-latency mindset with a strong grasp of determinism, scheduling and memory-management constraints. /lilibReal-Time Linux: /bA solid grasp of Linux fundamentals, especially embedded Linux with PREEMPT_RT. You are comfortable managing networking, permissions and debugging in constrained environments. /lilibSecure Networking: /bDeep understanding of network protocols and applied cryptography. /lilibPragmatic Problem Solving: /bYou are comfortable dealing with high uncertainty, shifting product requirements and direct customer interactions. /lilibTasteful Engineering: /bWe build software intentionally, investing in thoughtful architecture and carefully designed APIs. You should thrive on discussions about system design, performance tradeoffs and emerging tools. /lilibNice to Have: /bPrevious exposure to PLCs, control systems, or industrial automation is a bonus. Familiarity with Rust is also a plus. /li /ulh3Logistics Package /h3ullibLocation: /bThis role is based in Zurich, Switzerland. We believe in in-person work when it creates value, while maintaining the flexibility to work remotely as appropriate. /lilibCompensation: /bWe are offering a highly competitive and generous equity package to reflect your impact as a founding team member. /li /ul /p #J-18808-Ljbffr