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Firmware Contractor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Applied Intuition

Firmware HIL Engineer

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

$180 - $250/hr

Experience building on-target software for firmware/embedded systems, especially those that ... Applied Intuition is an equal opportunity employer and federal contractor or subcontractor.

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Firmware Contractor information

See salary details

$75K

$167.4K

$205K

How much do firmware contractor jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for firmware contractor in the United States is $167,438.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $143,000.00 and $205,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a firmware contractor?

Firmware contractors are professionals who specialize in developing, testing, and maintaining firmware, which is the low-level software programmed into hardware devices. Unlike full-time employees, contractors are typically hired on a temporary or project basis to address specific needs, such as creating new firmware for a product or updating existing code. Their work involves close collaboration with hardware and software teams to ensure seamless integration and optimal performance of electronic devices. Firmware contractors often have expertise in languages like C or C++, and work across industries such as consumer electronics, automotive, and IoT.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a firmware contractor?

To thrive as a Firmware Contractor, you need expertise in embedded systems programming, proficiency in languages like C/C++, and a background in electrical or computer engineering. Familiarity with hardware debugging tools, version control systems (such as Git), and real-time operating systems (RTOS) is typically required. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication skills set top performers apart in this role. These competencies ensure reliable, efficient firmware development and seamless collaboration with hardware and software teams.

What are some common challenges faced by firmware contractors when integrating their work with hardware teams?

Firmware contractors often encounter challenges related to hardware-software integration, such as incomplete hardware documentation, evolving hardware designs, or unexpected hardware bugs. Effective communication with hardware engineers is crucial to address these issues quickly and to ensure that firmware is optimized for real-world device constraints. Contractors may also need to adapt to different development environments and toolchains depending on the client's setup. Regular sync meetings and thorough testing on actual hardware are essential practices to ensure smooth collaboration and successful project outcomes.

What is the difference between Firmware Contractor vs Firmware Engineer?

AspectFirmware ContractorFirmware Engineer
CredentialsTypically requires relevant certifications, experience, and sometimes freelance or contractual licensingUsually holds a degree in electrical engineering, computer science, or related fields; full-time employment often with company-specific training
Work EnvironmentContract-based, often remote or on-site project-specific rolesFull-time or permanent positions within companies or R&D teams
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by companies hiring temporary or project-specific firmware development supportEmployed by organizations to develop, test, and maintain firmware regularly

Firmware Contractors typically work on a temporary basis, focusing on specific projects, while Firmware Engineers are full-time employees involved in ongoing firmware development and maintenance within organizations.

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What job categories do people searching Firmware Contractor jobs look for?

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Firmware Contractor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Firmware Contractor job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 33% Full Time, and 67% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $167,438 per year, or $80.5 per hour.

Software Development Engineer in Test (Firmware and Driver SDET Contractor)

PlayStation Global

San Mateo, CA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 16 days ago

Job description

Software Development Engineer in Test Contractor (Firmware and Driver SDET Contractor)Summary

Would you like to help ensure the quality of PlayStation peripherals and firmware? Join the team delivering innovative test solutions for PlayStation Link devices, where your work will directly impact performance, stability, and the player experience.

Sony Interactive Entertainment has a great opportunity in the Quality Engineering department! We are seeking a self-motivated engineer who focuses on quality, consistency, and thoughtful testing practices to develop and maintain automated tests that support the performance and reliability of our products.

As a Software Development Engineer in Test Contractor, you'll work hands-on with our peripherals, independently own and drive automated test coverage for specific features, and collaborate with senior engineers and development teams to ensure system quality across multiple platforms.

We value collaboration, thoughtful testing, and continuous learning as a team.

Responsibilities

In this role, you'll contribute to both the strategic and practical aspects of test automation across platforms.

  • Develop and maintain automated tests in C for embedded firmware and Python for platform integration

  • Own automation suites for assigned features, ensuring test reliability and comprehensive coverage

  • Support and enhance automation frameworks used across hardware and platform-level testing

  • Perform firmware integration testing on PlayStation 5, PlayStation Portal, and Windows

  • Monitor test infrastructure, troubleshoot automation failures, and improve performance and stability

  • Analyze test execution data to identify flaky or slow tests and contribute to runtime optimization

  • Evaluate and integrate new tools and methodologies to improve testing efficiency and scalability

  • Collaborate with QA, Development, and Product teams to align on test coverage and integration

Qualifications

We're looking for someone who enjoys solving tough problems and collaborating with others to build high-quality systems.

  • Strong Python scripting skills and hands-on experience with automation tools like pytest and Appium

  • Experience programming in C or C++ (modern C++ preferred, e.g., C++17)

  • Solid experience using Git for version control and working with CI/CD pipelines in Jenkins, including configuring jobs and troubleshooting failures

  • Experience using test case management tools like qTest or TestRail

  • Understanding of embedded firmware testing and hardware/software integration

  • Ability to design and troubleshoot automated tests with minimal supervision

  • Effective communication and collaboration skills in a cross-functional team

  • Bachelor's degree or equivalent
Nice to Have

If you bring any of these, we'd love to hear about them!

  • Experience with GitHub Actions

  • Experience testing or interacting with Windows-based drivers

  • Familiarity with PlayStation SDK development

  • Familiarity with basic electrical concepts such as current draw, voltage levels, battery diagnostics, and microcontroller-based measurements

  • Curiosity about PlayStation products and games

Apply