Principal Ultrasound Engineer

About the role

Butterfly Network is seeking a technical leader to advance our Ultrasound-on-Chip technology and medical imaging platforms. You will work on the development of next-generation diagnostic tools that improve global access to healthcare. In this capacity, you will own the architectural decisions for our core ultrasound processing stack, defining the pathways for innovation from algorithmic theory to clinical deployment. The hire will be responsible for translating high-level product requirements into robust software implementations that meet stringent safety and performance criteria. You will mentor junior engineers while driving the execution of critical projects that shape the future of point-of-care diagnostics. This role requires a deep commitment to quality, as your work will directly influence the reliability of medical images used by clinicians worldwide. You will partner closely with hardware teams to ensure seamless integration between our Ultrasound-on-Chip sensor and the software layers that power our imaging platform. Ultimately, your contributions will determine the scalability and performance of our products in diverse medical environments.

Key facts

What you'll do

• Architect and implement high-performance ultrasound beamforming algorithms to maximize image clarity and resolution across our product portfolio.
• Develop and optimize signal processing pipelines in C++ and Python to handle real-time data streams from the ultrasound transducer array.
• Lead the design of embedded software modules that integrate tightly with the Ultrasound-on-Chip hardware for low-latency operation.
• Conduct rigorous performance testing and validation to ensure our imaging systems meet regulatory and clinical standards.
• Collaborate with hardware engineers to debug system-level issues, iterating on firmware and software co-design improvements.
• Mentor engineering teams by providing technical leadership, code reviews, and best practices for medical device software development.
• Define and implement automated testing frameworks that guarantee the stability and reliability of new features before release.
• Analyze clinical feedback to identify areas for enhancement, translating user needs into actionable technical requirements.
• Partner with cross-functional stakeholders to align development timelines with product roadmaps and market opportunities.
• Drive the adoption of modern software engineering practices to improve code quality, scalability, and team velocity.

Requirements

• Hold an advanced degree in Electrical Engineering, Biomedical Engineering, Physics, or a related technical field.
• Demonstrate extensive professional experience in ultrasound system development or medical imaging signal processing spanning multiple years.
• Show proficiency in C++ and Python for algorithm development, simulation, and implementation in production environments.
• Provide a proven track record of taking complex medical device features from concept through production deployment and validation.
• Possess a deep understanding of ultrasound physics, including wave propagation, reflection, and signal reconstruction methods.
• Exhibit familiarity with embedded systems constraints and hardware-software integration challenges in medical devices.
• Have hands-on experience with medical device development standards and quality processes relevant to regulated environments.
• Display strong problem-solving skills and the ability to debug intricate issues in signal processing chains.

Skills & tools

• Ultrasound beamforming and signal processing techniques, including dynamic receive focusing and apodization.
• Embedded systems development and hardware-software integration for portable medical devices.
• Medical device development standards such as IEC 60601 and ISO 13485 where applicable.
• Proficiency in C++ for performance-critical code and Python for scripting, data analysis, and automation.
• Experience with version control, continuous integration, and testing frameworks used in regulated software projects.
• Knowledge of digital signal processing libraries and tools used in real-time image reconstruction.
• Understanding of system-level optimization techniques for power, memory, and computational efficiency.
• Familiarity with agile development methodologies and cross-functional team collaboration.

Nice to have

• Prior experience with Ultrasound-on-Chip technology or similar emerging sensor platforms.
• Contributions to open-source signal processing or medical imaging projects.
• Publication record or patents in the field of medical imaging or ultrasound systems.
• Experience working in regulated device environments with rigorous validation protocols.

Practical notes

• This is a full-time position with a hybrid work model requiring at least two days per week in the Burlington, MA office.
• Candidates must be eligible to work in the United States without sponsorship for this role.
• Benefits include 100% coverage for medical, dental, and vision through the Base Plan.
• Compensation package includes 401(k) with immediate vesting, flexible PTO, and parental leave support.
• Relocation assistance may be considered for candidates relocating to the Burlington office.
• The position is exempt and aligned with full-time employment expectations.
• Travel is not required for this role, ensuring consistent focus on product development and team collaboration.