Founding Audio Systems and DSP Engineer

Frontier is a Chicago-based company on a mission to enhance the capabilities of frontline workers through innovative AI voice wearables. With multimillion-dollar contracts with the U.S. Department of Defense and significant funding from top-tier investors, Frontier is poised to revolutionize the industry. The company is seeking a Founding Audio Systems and DSP Engineer to play a pivotal role in developing audio systems for wearables, impacting the productivity and safety of critical workers.

Responsibilities:

• Drive audio system design, architecture, and algorithms/DSP for wearables.
• Innovate in areas like speech pick-up, transparency pass-through, and active noise cancellation in noisy environments.
• Manage the full design cycle from simulation to rapid prototyping and testing.
• Address challenges related to form factor, comfort, battery life, and sound quality.
• Build state-of-the-art acoustic testing capabilities and systems.
• Create audio system prototypes for various use cases.
• Tune, measure, analyze, and conduct critical listening for audio systems.
• Select and develop components like speaker drivers and microphones, collaborating with manufacturing partners.
• Work closely with mechanical, DSP, and electrical engineers.

Qualifications:

• Dedication to pushing the boundaries of product design.
• 2+ years of experience in designing acoustic systems for wearables.
• 5+ years of experience in acoustic testing and measurement systems.
• 3+ years of experience with audio algorithms and digital signal processing.
• Proficient knowledge of audio ASICs, transducers, microphones, and amplifiers.
• Strong understanding of acoustics, psychoacoustics, and critical listening skills.
• Self-driven with the ability to prioritize tasks effectively.
• Must be eligible to work in the U.S. and travel internationally without restrictions.
• Ability to commute daily to the Chicago office.

Skills:

• Experience in acoustic wearables such as headphones and earbuds.
• Knowledge of adaptive active noise cancellation and transparency modes.
• Experience developing algorithms and DSP.
• Familiarity with chipsets from Qualcomm, GreenWaves, ADI, or Airoha.
• Background in psychoacoustics.
• Degrees in Acoustics, Mechanical or Electrical Engineering, or Physics are preferred.