System Architect

You will centre around developing robust frameworks that integrate high-level computing platforms such as Linux/ROS2 with real-time control units like MCUs. You will establish clear boundaries between safety-critical functions and non-safety operations—including AI components—to ensure compliance with international standards.

SYSTEM ARCHITECT

Salary: Competitive and based on experience
Location: Hong Kong

Keywords: system architecture, functional safety, embedded systems, certification, collaborative teams, regulatory compliance, technical guidance, risk mitigation, design review, conformity assessment

A leading organisation in Hong Kong is seeking a System Architect to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of advanced machinery and robotics. This opportunity offers you the chance to define and maintain complex system architectures, ensuring alignment with stringent international safety standards and regulations. You will be at the heart of technical decision-making, guiding multidisciplinary teams and acting as the primary contact for certification bodies. The role promises a collaborative environment where your expertise in functional safety engineering will be valued, and your contributions will directly impact product quality and regulatory compliance. Flexible working opportunities, generous training support, and a commitment to professional growth make this position ideal for those who thrive in supportive, knowledge-sharing settings.

* You will have the opportunity to lead architectural design for cutting-edge robotics and machinery projects, ensuring compliance with EU Machinery Regulation 2023/1230 and ISO standards.
* Your role will involve close collaboration with electrical, firmware, software, and mechanical teams, fostering an inclusive and supportive environment focused on safety-related design decisions.
* The organisation offers flexible working arrangements and ongoing training opportunities to help you grow your skills and advance your career within a dependable network of professionals.

What you'll do:

As a System Architect based in Hong Kong, you will be responsible for orchestrating the entire system architecture of advanced machinery projects. Your day-to-day activities will centre around developing robust frameworks that integrate high-level computing platforms such as Linux/ROS2 with real-time control units like MCUs. You will establish clear boundaries between safety-critical functions and non-safety operations—including AI components—to ensure compliance with international standards. Acting as the main technical liaison with certification bodies, you will prepare detailed documentation for audits and assessments while supporting CE marking efforts. Your guidance will empower multidisciplinary teams to make informed design choices that prioritise safety. By reviewing designs across electrical, firmware, software, and mechanical domains, you will identify risks early on and drive solutions that prevent costly redesigns. Success in this role hinges on your ability to foster collaboration among diverse teams while maintaining rigorous attention to regulatory detail.

* Define and maintain the overall system architecture across high-level compute platforms (Linux/ROS2), real-time control units (MCU), safety controllers, sensors, actuators, power management, and communication interfaces.
* Develop comprehensive Safety Architecture with clear separation between safety-related control functions and non-safety control or AI functions to ensure robust operational integrity.
* Ensure all architectural decisions align with relevant regulatory requirements including Machinery Regulation (EU) 2023/1230, ISO 12100 for risk assessment, ISO 13849-1/-2, and IEC 62061 for functional safety.
* Manage functional safety processes by defining Performance Level (PL) or Safety Integrity Level (SIL) targets appropriate for each system function.
* Act as the primary technical contact with external test houses, facilitating communication and incorporating feedback to streamline certification processes.
* Prepare and review all materials required for Design Review, Pre-assessment audit, and Final Conformity Assessment to ensure thorough documentation and compliance.
* Support conformity declaration activities including CE marking by providing technical expertise during internal reviews and audits.
* Guide cross-functional teams—electrical, firmware, software, mechanical—on safety-related design decisions to foster collaborative problem-solving.
* Review designs from multiple disciplines for potential safety implications and provide constructive feedback to mitigate risks early in development.
* Identify certification risks proactively throughout project lifecycles and implement strategies to avoid late-stage redesigns.

What you bring:

To excel as a System Architect in this organisation, you should possess a solid academic background in computer science or a closely related discipline. Your practical experience—spanning three to six years—should include hands-on involvement in system architecture or functional safety engineering within regulated industries. Direct engagement with Notified Bodies equips you with the interpersonal skills needed to navigate complex certification landscapes collaboratively. Your deep familiarity with ISO standards ensures that every aspect of your work meets rigorous compliance requirements. Technical proficiency in embedded systems—including MCUs, RTOS platforms—and field bus technologies like CANopen or EtherCAT is crucial for integrating diverse hardware components seamlessly. Your expertise extends to designing emergency stop mechanisms and implementing Safe Torque Off architectures that protect both users and equipment. A nuanced understanding of Linux-based systems at the architectural level empowers you to bridge high-level computing with real-time controls effectively. If you have worked on mobile robots or AGVs—or prepared technical files for CE marking—you bring additional value through specialised industry knowledge. Your approach should be empathetic, responsive, and committed to nurturing collaborative relationships across multidisciplinary teams.

* Degree in Computer Science or related field is required to demonstrate foundational knowledge in system architecture principles.
* Three to six years of experience in system architecture or functional safety engineering ensures you bring proven expertise to complex projects.
* Direct experience working with Notified Bodies such as TUV, SGS, or UL is essential for navigating certification processes efficiently.
* Proven familiarity with ISO 12100 (Risk Assessment), ISO 13849-1/-2 (Functional Safety), or IEC 62061 standards is necessary for regulatory compliance.
* Experience defining PL d / PL e or SIL 2 safety functions enables you to set appropriate performance targets for critical systems.
* Strong understanding of embedded systems including MCU platforms and RTOS provides technical depth needed for real-time control integration.
* Hands-on experience with safety MCUs or controllers supports robust architecture development for fail-safe operations.
* Knowledge of field buses such as CAN, CANopen, or EtherCAT allows seamless communication between system components.
* Expertise in emergency stop mechanisms and Safe Torque Off (STO) architecture ensures effective implementation of protective measures.
* Experience with safety relay technology as well as redundant and fail-safe design practices enhances reliability across all subsystems.
* Understanding Linux-based systems at the architectural level—including ROS—is vital for integrating advanced computing capabilities.
* Preferred: Experience working with mobile robots or Automated Guided Vehicles (AGVs) adds valuable industry insight into dynamic environments.
* Preferred: Familiarity with Machinery Regulation (EU) 2023/1230 beyond just the Machinery Directive demonstrates comprehensive regulatory awareness.
* Preferred: Experience preparing technical files for CE marking streamlines conformity declaration processes.

What sets this company apart:

This organisation stands out by offering an environment where knowledge-sharing is actively encouraged through communal support networks. Employees benefit from flexible working opportunities that accommodate personal needs while promoting professional growth through generous training programmes. The leadership team is dedicated to fostering an inclusive culture where every voice is heard—ensuring that all team members feel connected and supported throughout their careers. With access to state-of-the-art resources and ongoing mentorship from knowledgeable colleagues, you can expect continuous development both technically and interpersonally. The company’s commitment to regulatory excellence means your contributions are recognised not only internally but also by industry partners worldwide. By joining this team, you become part of a dependable network that values empathy, cooperation, and shared success above all else.

What's next:

If you are ready to shape the future of advanced machinery architecture while enjoying flexible working arrangements within a supportive team environment, this is your moment!

Apply today by clicking on the link provided.