Co-op Fall 2026 - Embedded Software Developer / Modeler - 4 Months in Nepean, Ontario at General Dynamics - Spider Only

Build bold. Deliver impact. Win together.

At General Dynamics Mission Systems–Canada, we’re not just engineering technology — we’re shaping the future of defence and security. Our teams design and deliver advanced, mission-critical solutions that enhance national security, strengthen communities, and protect the people we serve.

If you’re looking for meaningful work that contributes to a safer, more secure world, you’ll find purpose here. Every day, your skills will directly impact programs that matter.

The General Dynamics Mission Systems – Canada Advanced Vetronics Systems (AVS) team has a requirement for an Electrical/Software/Computer Engineering student to support multiple programs in the Vetronics product area. The successful candidate will contribute to the support of embedded software for a number of products, including the Smart Display platform.

Our Smart Displays contain a full‑computer (Intel Xeon) processor plus embedded ARM micro‑processors that manage external interfaces such as USB, CAN, or RS‑422. These systems are used by our military customers to display battlefield maps, sensor data, and other mission‑critical information.

The Vetronics team’s software runs close to the hardware. We measure boot times in milliseconds. There is no heavyweight Java VM or Apache web‑server backend; depending on the project we may have an embedded Linux kernel, a thin real‑time operating system, or no OS at all. We write code for ARM processors and micro‑controllers – think “Odroid, Arduino, Raspberry Pi” taken to the next level.

Control Systems & Signal Processing
In addition to the core display functionality, our roadmap now includes model‑based design of control‑system and signal‑processing algorithms that run on the same embedded platforms. Candidates will have the opportunity to:

• Develop and validate control‑loop and signal‑processing code in MATLAB/Simulink, then generate production‑ready C/C++ via MATLAB’s Automated Code Generation toolchain.
• Integrate the auto‑generated code into our embedded‑Linux or bare‑metal environments and verify performance against real‑time constraints.
• Work with sensor‑fusion data (e.g., inertial, lidar, radar) and implement filtering, estimation, and actuator‑control algorithms that feed directly into the Smart Display UI.

• Currently enrolled in a Bachelor’s degree program in Software Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or Computer Engineering.
• Operating Systems: Linux (Ubuntu, shell), Windows 10/11.
• Programming Languages: C/C++, Python 3, Bourne shell scripts.
• Interfaces: I²C, SPI, JTAG, USB, Ethernet (TCP/IP, SSH), CAN bus.
• Software Tools: Git & GitLab CI/CD, Visual Studio Code, Docker, Confluence.
• Model‑Based Design Tools: MATLAB & Simulink (including Embedded Coder / Autocode generation).
• Office Tools: Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint.
• Strong interest in developing embedded application software for devices and computers.
• Passion for micro‑controllers, control systems, and signal‑processing algorithms.
• Soft Skills: Innovative self‑starter, excellent communication and teamwork abilities, capable of multitasking and prioritizing work.
• Exposure to software/hardware integration and testing, and ability to work from digital schematics.
• Experience collaborating in a multidisciplinary team of systems, software, and hardware engineers.
• Experience working with or familiarity with AI/ML models is preferred.

It is a requirement that General Dynamics Mission Systems–Canada be registered with the Canadian Controlled Goods program and that all of its workforce be security assessed. Successful applicants must meet all applicable security requirements, including but not limited to the ability to obtain and maintain a Canadian government security clearance. Applicants may be required to meet additional security requirements in order to gain access to technical data, classified areas or information that is subject to international regulations. You must be eligible to work in Canada.

Compensation
The expected hourly rate for this position is $21.20 – $33.23. Final compensation will be determined based on your relevant work experience to date. As part of student placement, you will be eligible for quarterly pay increases.

Why Students Love Working Here

• Purposeful Innovation & Problem Solving: You’ll work alongside experienced professionals and some of the brightest minds in the defence sector, gaining hands-on experience with next-generation technologies. This is a place where your ideas are encouraged, creativity is valued, and you’ll be supported as you learn and help drive modern, practical solutions.
• Connection & Mentorship: Through onboarding to your career journey with us, you will work with teammates that are excited to share their experience and develop your skills. Have meaningful interactions, ask questions, and build relationships that can lead to lasting industry connections.
• Perks & Highlights:
  • Eligibility for future co-ops or full-time roles
  • Flexible work hours and compressed workweek options
  • Hybrid work model (where applicable)
  • Networking opportunities across teams and disciplines
  • Onsite amenities and social events (gym, bike storage, trivia, appreciation events, etc.)
  • Corporate discounts

Accommodation
If you require accommodation during any stage of the application process, please contact Human Resources via recruitment@gd-ms.ca.