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Bootloader Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Design and implement the Hardware Root of Trust and Secure Boot architecture from the first-stage bootloader through the Linux kernel. Storage & Integrity Management * Implement dm-verity for ...

Platform Integration Engineer

Palo Alto, CA · On-site

$119K - $160K/yr

Own the software stack bring-up, including bootloader, kernel, BSP, and middleware integration. * Serve as the primary technical interface with Mediatek for platform enablement and escalation ...

Familiarity with bare metal systems, board bring-up, and bootloader architecture. * Familiarity with using logic analyzers, I2C analyzers, oscilloscopes, and other relevant tools. * Understanding ...

Senior Firmware Developer

Houston, TX · On-site

$114K - $150K/yr

Familiarity with bare metal systems, board bring-up, and bootloader architecture. * Familiarity with using logic analyzers, I2C analyzers, oscilloscopes, and other relevant tools. * Understanding ...

Embedded Software Engineer

Redwood City, CA · On-site

$161K - $211K/yr

Own the embedded software stack (bootloader, kernel, devicetree, BSP, and drivers) for compute platforms based on SoCs like NVIDIA Jetson, Qualcomm etc * Develop and maintain Linux kernel drivers and ...

Senior AUTOSAR Software Developer

Fridley, MN · On-site

$56.25 - $74.25/hr

... bootloader-related modules. § Experience in multicore system configuration and management. § Knowledge of AUTOSAR-based application layer development. § Hands-on experience with RTE behavior in ...

Strong knowledge in Bootloader integration, Flash Bootloader, E2E, XCP, Cyber security and FOTA (Flash over the air). * Knowledge of automotive standardized instrumentation and test tools such as ...

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Design and implement the Hardware Root of Trust and Secure Boot architecture from the first-stage bootloader through the Linux kernel. Storage & Integrity Management * Implement dm-verity for ...

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Bootloader information

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$37K

$129.1K

$399K

How much do bootloader jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for bootloader in the United States is $129,093.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $86,000.00 and $133,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a bootloader?

A bootloader is a small program that starts up on a device when it is powered on and is responsible for loading the operating system or firmware. It initializes the hardware, verifies and loads the main system software, and often provides features for updating or recovering the device's software. Bootloaders are crucial in embedded systems, smartphones, and computers, and their security is essential to prevent unauthorized modifications. Understanding how a bootloader works is important for developers who work with low-level system programming or custom device firmware.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a bootloader engineer?

To thrive as a Bootloader Engineer, you need a solid background in embedded systems, C/C++ programming, and a degree in computer engineering or a related field. Familiarity with tools such as JTAG debuggers, version control systems, and experience with microcontroller architectures is essential. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication help you troubleshoot issues and collaborate across teams. These skills are crucial for ensuring reliable system startup, device security, and seamless firmware updates.

What are some common challenges a bootloader engineer faces when working with new hardware platforms?

A Bootloader Engineer often encounters challenges such as ensuring compatibility with diverse hardware architectures, debugging low-level hardware initialization issues, and managing secure boot processes. Because bootloaders operate at the earliest stage of device startup, even small errors can prevent the system from booting, requiring a strong understanding of both hardware schematics and firmware. Collaboration with hardware engineers and embedded software teams is essential to resolve issues and optimize performance, especially when integrating support for new chipsets or custom boards.

What is the difference between Bootloader vs Firmware Engineer?

AspectBootloaderFirmware Engineer
Required CredentialsKnowledge of embedded systems, low-level programming, and hardware interfacesProficiency in embedded C/C++, hardware integration, and debugging skills
Work EnvironmentEmbedded systems, hardware development, often in manufacturing or product designSoftware development, embedded systems, product development teams
Industry UsageUsed in device initialization, hardware setup, and system startupDevelops, tests, and maintains firmware for devices and systems

While a Bootloader focuses on initializing hardware and loading the main firmware, a Firmware Engineer designs and develops the software that runs on embedded devices. Both roles require embedded systems knowledge, but Bootloaders are more hardware-focused, whereas Firmware Engineers work on the overall software functionality.

What can a bootloader do?

A bootloader is a program that initializes hardware and loads the operating system when a device is powered on. It can also provide options for selecting different OS versions, perform system recovery, and update firmware. Skills in embedded systems and familiarity with hardware are often required for this role.
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Infographic showing various Bootloader job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 76% Full Time, and 24% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $129,093 per year, or $62.1 per hour.

Embedded Systems Security Engineer

Foster City, CA • On-site

Other

Posted 7 days ago


Job description

  • Education: Bachelor s degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related technical discipline (or equivalent practical experience).
  • Core Experience: 6+ years of professional experience in Embedded Linux development, board bring-up, and Board Support Package (BSP) customization.
  • Security Focus: 3+ years of dedicated, hands-on experience deploying device-level security features into physical production hardware.
  • Low-Level Systems: Expert knowledge of bootloader configurations (e.g., U-Boot Verified Boot, Barebox) and customizing the Linux kernel storage/security subsystem (dm-crypt, dm-verity).
  • Hardware Security Architecture: Deep understanding of modern processor security architectures, specifically ARM TrustZone (ARMv7-A / ARMv8-A, Exception Levels EL1 EL3).
  • Sandboxing & Access Controls: Proven track record implementing SELinux/AppArmor policies and utilizing standard Linux containment tools (cgroups, namespaces).
  • Build Automation: Proficiency with embedded Linux build automated frameworks like the Yocto Project (BitBake recipe design) or Buildroot.
  • Programming: Advanced proficiency in C and strong scripting skills in Python or Bash.