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Firmware Engineer Jobs in Madison, WI (NOW HIRING)

i3 Product Development

Software Engineer

Sun Prairie, WI · On-site

$70K - $100K/yr

You will work closely with designers, mechanical engineers, electrical engineers, firmware engineers, project managers, and clients to create stable, maintainable applications and connected-product ...

Accuray

Electrical Engineer III

Madison, WI

... sources, including engineering and specification documents. Design and develop electrical ... firmware for FPGAs (microcontroller knowledge considered a plus) Debug hardware/software ...

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All JobsFirmware Engineer JobsFirmware Engineer Jobs in Madison, WI

Firmware Engineer information

See Madison, WI salary details

$75.6K

$168.7K

$206.6K

How much do firmware engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for firmware engineer in Madison, WI is $168,715.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $144,100.00 and $206,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Firmware Engineer vs Embedded Software Engineer?

AspectFirmware EngineerEmbedded Software Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or related fields; knowledge of hardware and low-level programmingBachelor's in Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or related fields; strong programming skills in C/C++
Work EnvironmentDesigning and developing firmware for hardware devices, often working closely with hardware teamsDeveloping software for embedded systems, often in real-time environments
Industry UsageElectronics, consumer devices, IoT, automotiveConsumer electronics, medical devices, industrial automation

Firmware Engineers focus on creating low-level code that directly interacts with hardware components, while Embedded Software Engineers develop software that runs on embedded systems, often with a broader scope. Both roles require similar technical skills and often overlap in industries like consumer electronics and IoT.

How much money does a firmware engineer make?

A firmware engineer's salary varies by experience, location, and industry, but typically ranges from $80,000 to $130,000 annually in many regions. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced engineers with specialized skills in embedded systems and real-time operating systems can earn higher salaries. Certifications and proficiency with tools like C and assembly language can also influence compensation.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a firmware engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Firmware Engineer, you need a solid background in embedded systems, C/C++ programming, and a relevant engineering degree such as Electrical or Computer Engineering. Familiarity with hardware debugging tools, version control systems like Git, and real-time operating systems (RTOS) is typically required. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help firmware engineers excel, especially when collaborating with hardware and software teams. These skills and qualities are crucial to ensure reliable, efficient firmware that seamlessly integrates with hardware products.

What are some common challenges firmware engineers face when working with cross-functional teams?

Firmware Engineers often collaborate closely with hardware designers, software developers, and QA teams. A common challenge is ensuring clear communication of technical requirements and constraints, as firmware must interface seamlessly with hardware and higher-level software. Misalignment or delays in one area can impact overall delivery, so Firmware Engineers need strong problem-solving and collaboration skills to address integration issues and keep projects on track. Regular cross-team meetings and thorough documentation help mitigate these challenges.

What is a firmware engineer?

Firmware Engineers are professionals who design, develop, test, and maintain the low-level software (firmware) that allows hardware devices to function. This firmware acts as a bridge between the device's hardware and higher-level software, ensuring that hardware components operate correctly and efficiently. Firmware Engineers typically work with embedded systems, writing code in languages like C or C++ for microcontrollers, sensors, and other electronic devices. Their work is crucial in industries such as consumer electronics, automotive, medical devices, and telecommunications.

What does a firmware engineer do?

A firmware engineer designs, develops, and tests low-level software that controls hardware devices such as microcontrollers and embedded systems. They work with programming languages like C or C++, use tools like debuggers and oscilloscopes, and often collaborate with hardware engineers to ensure proper device functionality and performance.

What are the most commonly searched types of Firmware Engineer jobs in Madison, WI?

The most popular types of Firmware Engineer jobs in Madison, WI are:

What are popular job titles related to Firmware Engineer jobs in Madison, WI?

For Firmware Engineer jobs in Madison, WI, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Firmware Engineer jobs in Madison, WI look for?

The top searched job categories for Firmware Engineer jobs in Madison, WI are:

What cities near Madison, WI are hiring for Firmware Engineer jobs?

Cities near Madison, WI with the most Firmware Engineer job openings:

Firmware Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Firmware Engineer job openings in Madison, WI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, and 13% Contract. Highlights an 78% In-person, 11% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $168,715 per year, or $81.1 per hour.

Senior Firmware Engineer

i3 Product Development

Sun Prairie, WI

$116K - $153K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 15 days ago

Job description

At i3 Product Development, we are a place for people who love to build, learn, and stay curious, especially when the problems are complex. As a Senior Firmware Engineer, you will be part of ahigh-performingteam of designers, engineers, and problem solvers working together under one roof to turn ideas into real, functioning products.


Our projects spanthe medical, agricultural, industrial, consumer,healthand wellness, and on-andoff-roadrecreation industries, so the technical challenges are always evolving. One month,you might be architecting firmware for a connected embedded platform.Next, you couldbe optimizingperformance and power consumption on a resource-constraineddevice. With more than 100 projects each year, the work is varied,hands-on, and deeply collaborative.


About the Role

This role isidealfor engineers who enjoy technical depth, systems thinking, and cross-functional collaboration.As a senior engineer, you will shape and own firmware architecture, influence key hardware decisions, mentor teammates, and contribute from earlyconceptthrough product launch.You will strengthen our architectural foundations andestablishhigh engineering standards that scale with the growth and complexity of our projects.

We support our team with strong benefits, including a zero-deductible health plan, meaningful retirement match, and employee ownership,so you can focus on doinggreat workand growing your career.


What You Will Do

  • Design and develop firmware for embedded products from concept through production
  • Write andmaintainhigh-qualityC and C++ code
  • Develop control algorithms and communication interfaces
  • Collaborate closely with electrical engineers on hardware selection, boardbring-up, testing, and debugging
  • Support system integration and product validation efforts
  • Own and evolvefirmware architecture and technical direction
  • Leadand drivedesign reviews and cross-functional technical discussions
  • Mentor engineers and actively elevate team capability
  • Continuously build your skills through varied project work and shared learning


Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or related discipline
  • Sevenor more years of professional experience in embedded firmware development, including experience owning complex systems
  • Deepproficiencyin C and C++
  • Experience developing for32-bitmicrocontrollers and Single Board Computer platforms
  • Experience developing in embedded Linux environments
  • Experience using compilers, debuggers, and embedded development tools
  • Working knowledge of Real Time Operating Systems
  • Comfort using lab equipment such as oscilloscopes, logic analyzers, and digital multimeters
  • Strong collaboration skills and a practical understanding of electrical engineering fundamentals
  • Experience leading architectural decisions across multiple firmware projects
  • Experienceestablishingor improving engineering standards and development processes
  • Strong designdocumentation and technical communication skills
  • Track recordof mentoring engineers and raising overall team capability


Nice to Have

  • Experience withadditionalprogramming languages such as C#, Python, or Java
  • Experience with communication protocols such as Wi Fi, Bluetooth, CAN, TCP/IP, SPI, or I2C
  • Familiarity with tools such as Wireshark
  • In-depthknowledge of Linux internals,including bootloaders, file systems, and kernel concepts
  • Experience with build systems such asYoctoorBuildroot
  • Experience in regulated industries such as medical


Why i3

At i3, Firmware Engineers do not work in isolation. You will collaborate closely with multidisciplinary teams, see your code move from prototype to production, and help shape products that make a real impact. We value curiosity, accountability, and engineers who care about both technical excellence and team success.


Benefits

  • Health insurance with a zero-dollar deductible and employee premiums as low as nine dollars per pay period
  • Dental and vision coverage
  • 401(k) with a dollar-for-dollar match up to six percent
  • Employee Stock Purchase Program
  • Company paid short- and long-term disability insurance
  • Company paid life insurance at two times your annual salary
  • Flexible Spending Accounts and Health Savings Accounts
  • Paid time off plus nine paid holidays
  • Emergency Assistance Fund
  • Charitable Match Program

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