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Entry Level Protocol Engineer Jobs in Philadelphia, PA

ADT LLC

Firmware Engineer

Blue Bell, PA · On-site

This entry-level Firmware Engineer role supports the development, debugging, testing, and ... Continuously learn new protocols, tools, and platform details; research unfamiliar technology with ...

AllSTEM Connections

Research Engineer

Malvern, PA · On-site

$72K - $104K/yr

Job Title: Entry-Level Research Engineer (Materials & Product Development) Role Overview We are ... Support laboratory mixing and processing activities while adhering to strict safety protocols and ...

AllSTEM Connections

Research Engineer

Malvern, PA · On-site

Job Title: Entry-Level Research Engineer (Materials & Product Development) Role Overview We are ... Support laboratory mixing and processing activities while adhering to strict safety protocols and ...

ADT Security Services

Firmware Engineer

Blue Bell, PA · On-site

This entry-level Firmware Engineer role supports the development, debugging, testing, and ... Continuously learn new protocols, tools, and platform details; research unfamiliar technology with ...

Globusmedical

Manufacturing Engineering

Limerick, PA · On-site

$69K - $89K/yr

This is an entrylevel position focused on learning manufacturing processes, tooling, and quality ... protocols compliant with existing SOP's with assistance from more senior personnel * Follow all ...

Branch Medical Group

Manufacturing Engineering

Limerick, PA · On-site

$69K - $89K/yr

This is an entry-level position focused on learning manufacturing processes, tooling, and quality ... protocols compliant with existing SOP's with assistance from more senior personnel * Follow all ...

Branch Medical Group

Manufacturing Engineering

Limerick, PA · On-site

$69K - $89K/yr

This is an entrylevel position focused on learning manufacturing processes, tooling, and quality ... protocols compliant with existing SOP's with assistance from more senior personnel * Follow all ...

Globus Medical

Manufacturing Engineering

Limerick, PA · On-site

$69K - $89K/yr

This is an entry-level position focused on learning manufacturing processes, tooling, and quality ... protocols compliant with existing SOP's with assistance from more senior personnel * Follow all ...

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All JobsProtocol Engineer JobsEntry Level Protocol Engineer JobsEntry Level Protocol Engineer Jobs in Philadelphia, PA

Entry Level Protocol Engineer information

See Philadelphia, PA salary details

$30.3K

$70K

$119.1K

How much do entry level protocol engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level protocol engineer in Philadelphia, PA is $69,992.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $52,000.00 and $79,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry level protocol engineer?

An Entry Level Protocol Engineer is a professional who assists in designing, implementing, and maintaining communication protocols for computer networks and distributed systems. These protocols are sets of rules that enable devices to communicate efficiently and securely. In this role, engineers collaborate with senior team members to troubleshoot issues, write code, perform testing, and ensure interoperability between systems. The position typically requires knowledge of networking concepts, programming languages, and an understanding of protocol standards. Entry level engineers gain practical experience and foundational skills needed for more advanced engineering roles.

What are the typical day-to-day responsibilities of an entry level protocol engineer?

As an Entry Level Protocol Engineer, you can expect to spend your days assisting in the design, implementation, and testing of network protocols. You'll likely work closely with senior engineers to troubleshoot issues, write and review code, and participate in team meetings to discuss protocol specifications and improvements. Collaboration with QA teams and developers is common to ensure interoperability and performance. Over time, you'll gain exposure to documentation, debugging tools, and the latest industry standards, helping you build a strong foundation in protocol engineering.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level protocol engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Protocol Engineer, you need a strong understanding of computer networking, programming (often in languages like C/C++ or Python), and a relevant degree in computer science or engineering. Familiarity with networking tools, packet analyzers (like Wireshark), and foundational knowledge of protocols such as TCP/IP, HTTP, or newer blockchain protocols is typically required. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help set candidates apart. These competencies are essential for designing, testing, and maintaining reliable network or blockchain protocols that support robust and secure digital communication.

What is the difference between Entry Level Protocol Engineer vs Network Technician?

AspectEntry Level Protocol EngineerNetwork Technician
Required CredentialsAssociate degree or relevant certifications (e.g., Cisco CCNA)Associate degree or certifications (e.g., CompTIA Network+)
Work EnvironmentDesigning, testing, and troubleshooting network protocols and systemsInstalling, maintaining, and repairing network hardware and connections
Employer & Industry UsageTelecommunications, IT services, networking companiesCorporate IT departments, internet service providers, telecom firms
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for entry-level networking roles involving protocolsMore hardware-focused, but overlaps in troubleshooting skills

While both roles require foundational networking knowledge and certifications, Entry Level Protocol Engineers focus on designing and testing network protocols, whereas Network Technicians primarily handle hardware installation and maintenance. Both roles are essential in networking environments and often share similar entry requirements, making them common points of comparison for those starting their IT careers.

What are the most commonly searched types of Protocol Engineer jobs in Philadelphia, PA?

The most popular types of Protocol Engineer jobs in Philadelphia, PA are:

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Protocol Engineer jobs in Philadelphia, PA?

For Entry Level Protocol Engineer jobs in Philadelphia, PA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Protocol Engineer jobs in Philadelphia, PA look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Protocol Engineer jobs in Philadelphia, PA are:

What cities near Philadelphia, PA are hiring for Entry Level Protocol Engineer jobs?

Cities near Philadelphia, PA with the most Entry Level Protocol Engineer job openings:

Entry Level Protocol Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Protocol Engineer job openings in Philadelphia, PA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 92% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $69,992 per year, or $33.6 per hour.

Firmware Engineer

ADT LLC

Blue Bell, PA • On-site

Other

Posted 7 days ago

ADT rating

7.0

Company rating: 7.0 out of 10

Based on 139 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

44th of 116 rated security

Job description


Summary:
This entry-level Firmware Engineer role supports the development, debugging, testing, and documentation of embedded firmware for ADT connected-home and security products. The role is designed for entry level candidates or early-career engineers with strong C/C++ fundamentals, who are comfortable learning Linux-based development, and who want to grow under the guidance of senior engineers.
About the Role:
You will help build firmware for security base stations and related connected-home devices. This includes writing and debugging C/C++ code, learning how embedded Linux and microcontroller-based systems work, supporting wireless device features, and helping improve build and test automation. Prior industry experience is not required; coursework, projects, internships, curiosity, and willingness to learn are most important.
Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Develop and maintain embedded firmware and applications in C/C++ for Linux-based IoT security devices, with mentoring from senior engineers.
  • Assist with embedded Linux setup and configuration, including build tools, board support, and basic system customization with guidance from senior engineers.
  • Help implement and debug firmware features that connect devices to backend services over Wi-Fi using secure network communication and structured messages such as JSON.
  • Support firmware features that communicate with wireless devices and radios, such as Z-Wave, Bluetooth/BLE, Zigbee, or DECT/ULE, based on product needs.
  • Work closely with the hardware team on board bring-up, peripheral interfaces (UART, SPI, I2C, USB), and root-cause analysis of hardware/software issues.
  • Write unit tests and help the QA team with test plans and continuous integration for firmware builds.
  • Support the Products team in clarifying requirements and translating them into implementable firmware tasks.
  • Use Git, build scripts, and continuous integration tools such as Jenkins to support firmware development and testing.
  • Document designs, debug notes, and how-to guidance so the team can reuse and extend your work.
  • Continuously learn new protocols, tools, and platform details; research unfamiliar technology with guidance and share findings with the team.

Requirements:
Bachelor's degree in computer engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or a closely related field, or equivalent practical experience. entry level candidates and candidates graduating within the current academic year are encouraged to apply.
Required Skills / Qualifications:
  • Basic C and/or C++ programming fundamentals, demonstrated through coursework, labs, personal projects, capstone work, internship experience, or similar hands-on practice.
  • Basic familiarity with Linux or command-line development, such as navigating files, compiling code, running tools, or following build instructions.
  • Introductory understanding of operating system concepts such as processes, threads, memory, and basic multitasking; embedded experience is helpful but not required.
  • Basic exposure to networking concepts such as IP addresses, Wi-Fi, client/server communication, or secure connections; deeper networking experience is a plus.
  • Some exposure to scripting with Shell, Python, or similar tools for simple build, test, or automation tasks.
  • Basic familiarity with Git or another source-control tool, or willingness to learn through team workflows.
  • Ability to read technical documentation and learn basic lab tools such as a serial console, logic analyzer, or oscilloscope; course or lab exposure is sufficient.
  • Curiosity, problem-solving mindset, clear communication, and willingness to ask questions and learn from senior engineers.

Preferred / Nice to Have:
  • Coursework, project, internship, or co-op experience in embedded systems, firmware, IoT, consumer electronics, microcontrollers, RTOS, or bare-metal development.
  • Exposure to Buildroot, Yocto, or another embedded Linux build system.
  • Familiarity with device drivers, bootloaders (e.g., U-Boot), or firmware update/OTA flows.
  • Hands-on with any of: Wi-Fi, Bluetooth/BLE, Zigbee, Z-Wave, DECT/ULE, or other IoT/sensor protocols.
  • Exposure to peripheral interfaces such as UART, SPI, I2C, or USB.
  • Messaging formats such as JSON or Protocol Buffers.
  • Internship or co-op in embedded, firmware, IoT, or consumer electronics.
  • Awareness of Agile practices and CI tools (Jenkins, GitHub Actions, etc.).
  • Java or other higher-level language experience is a plus, not required.

Attitude & Working Style:
  • Positive, can-do attitude and ownership of assigned work.
  • Comfortable asking questions and escalating blockers early.
  • Able to work independently on well-scoped tasks while collaborating closely with hardware, QA, and product partners.
  • Open to working outside your comfort zone and researching new technology.
  • Eager for technical learning and continuous improvement.

Competencies:
  • Technical Learning
  • Functional / Technical Skills
  • Customer Focus
  • Drive for Results
  • Ethics & Values
  • Peer Relationships
  • Creativity
  • Collaboration and conflict resolution

What Success Looks Like (First 6-12 Months):
  • Completes assigned firmware features and bug fixes with improving independence, good code quality, and clear communication.
  • Debugs issues across software and hardware boundaries using logs, debuggers, and lab tools.
  • Contributes meaningfully to at least one wireless/protocol or platform area used by the product.
  • Improves team velocity via tests, scripts, or documentation.

What ADT employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

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About ADT

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At ADT Commercial, we are in the business of helping people and organizations to protect what matters most to them. Building upon ADT's 145-year legacy, we secure the livelihoods and futures of critical commercial environments, retail location, educational campuses, healthcare facilities and financial institutions across the U.S. as an industry-leading security, fire and life safety systems integrator. We strive to have the most experienced and technically trained and talented teams in the industry, driven by excellence at every turn. At ADT Commercial, we truly believe that our people are the difference - for our organization, the customers we serve and the communities we protect. When you're a part of ADT Commercial, you'll have the opportunity to be a part of that difference every day. With more than 300 locations, a deep national presence, and comprehensive portfolio of solutions and services, our employees are always poised for career advancement and growth. For more information, visit www.adtcommercial.com or follow us on LinkedIn and Facebook.

Industry

Personal services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Boca Raton, FL, US

Year founded

1874

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