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Firmware Engineer Jobs in Riverside, CA (NOW HIRING)

Description As an Embedded FW Engineer, the individual will be a core member of a Wireless SoC firmware team, with emphasis on PHY bring up, RF calibrations, signal processing algorithm ...

Description As an Embedded FW Engineer, the individual will be a core member of a Wireless SoC firmware team, with emphasis on PHY bring up, RF calibrations, signal processing algorithm ...

Description As an Embedded FW Engineer, the individual will be a core member of a Wireless SoC firmware team, with emphasis on PHY bring up, RF calibrations, signal processing algorithm ...

Description As an Embedded FW Engineer, the individual will be a core member of a Wireless SoC firmware team, with emphasis on PHY bring up, RF calibrations, signal processing algorithm ...

Description As an Embedded FW Engineer, the individual will be a core member of a Wireless SoC firmware team, with emphasis on PHY bring up, RF calibrations, signal processing algorithm ...

Description As an Embedded FW Engineer, the individual will be a core member of a Wireless SoC firmware team, with emphasis on PHY bring up, RF calibrations, signal processing algorithm ...

FPGA/Firmware Manager

Irvine, CA · On-site

$175K - $225K/yr

We are looking for an FPGA/Firmware Manager to lead our rapidly growing team in Irvine, CA. In this ... Work with electrical engineers and others to support the bring-up of custom hardware * Establish ...

FPGA/Firmware Manager

Irvine, CA · On-site

$175K - $225K/yr

We are looking for an FPGA/Firmware Manager to lead our rapidly growing team in Irvine, CA. In this ... Work with electrical engineers and others to support the bring-up of custom hardware * Establish ...

Senior Embedded Platform Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

$133K - $174K/yr

This role focuses on the real-time firmware foundation that enables actuators, motor drives, BMS ... engineers to ensure the platform layer is reliable, reusable, and deterministic. Key ...

Senior Embedded Platform Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

$133K - $174K/yr

We're seeking a Senior Platform/Real-Time Embedded Firmware Engineer with strong low-level embedded software expertise and a passion for building robust, deterministic firmware for safety-critical ...

Senior Embedded Platform Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

$133K - $174K/yr

We're seeking a Senior Platform/Real-Time Embedded Firmware Engineer with strong low-level embedded software expertise and a passion for building robust, deterministic firmware for safety-critical ...

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Firmware Engineer information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$78.2K

$174.7K

$213.9K

How much do firmware engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for firmware engineer in Riverside, CA is $174,682.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $149,200.00 and $213,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior engineers in specialized fields such as software engineering, hardware engineering, and aerospace engineering can earn $300,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced skills, and in high-demand industries. Roles like senior software engineers, engineering managers, and technical leads often reach this compensation level, particularly in technology hubs or large corporations.

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 based on experience, location, and industry, but typically ranges from $80,000 to $130,000 annually. Senior firmware engineers with specialized skills in embedded systems and real-time operating systems can earn higher salaries, especially in high-demand tech sectors.

What engineers make $500,000?

Senior firmware engineers with extensive experience, specialized skills in embedded systems, and advanced certifications can earn $500,000 or more annually, especially in high-demand industries like aerospace, defense, or semiconductor manufacturing. Compensation often includes base salary, bonuses, and stock options, and reaching this level typically requires years of expertise and leadership roles.

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 are Firmware Engineers?

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 integration and functionality.
What are the most commonly searched types of Firmware Engineer jobs in Riverside, CA? The most popular types of Firmware Engineer jobs in Riverside, CA are:
What are popular job titles related to Firmware Engineer jobs in Riverside, CA? For Firmware Engineer jobs in Riverside, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Firmware Engineer jobs in Riverside, CA look for? The top searched job categories for Firmware Engineer jobs in Riverside, CA are:
What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Firmware Engineer jobs? Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Firmware Engineer job openings:
Wireless RF PHY Firmware Engineer

Wireless RF PHY Firmware Engineer

Apple

Irvine, CA

$120K - $210K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Retirement

Posted 2 days ago


Apple rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 662 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

6th of 30 rated technology retailers


Job description

Would you like to join Apple’s growing Wireless Connectivity Silicon team? Our wireless System on a Chip (SoC) organization is responsible for all aspects of wireless silicon development with a particular emphasis on highly energy efficient design and new technologies that transform the user experience at the product level, all of which is driven by a world-class vertically integrated engineering team spanning RF/Analog architecture and design, Systems/PHY/MAC architecture and design, VLSI/RTL design and integration, Emulation, Design Verification, Test and Validation, and FW/SW engineering. In this highly visible role, you will be at the center of a silicon design group with a critical impact on getting functional wireless products to hundreds of millions of customers! Responsible for crafting and implementing embedded firmware for SoC bring up and wireless connectivity enablement. You will work closely with product software and manufacturing teams to enable RF and PHY calibrations, algorithms and testing to enable productization of the silicon / system.
Description
As an Embedded FW Engineer, the individual will be a core member of a Wireless SoC firmware team, with emphasis on PHY bring up, RF calibrations, signal processing algorithm implementation and performance tuning.
- Work closely with product SW and manufacturing teams to provide system-level API and firmware functionality to meet productization needs. Develop SoC test and calibration capabilities for wafer, module, and system factories.
- Collaborate with RF/Radio design, DVT, PHY and System engineering teams to architect, define and implement innovative algorithms, calibrations and protocols.
- Debug realtime systems with limited visibility, working hands-on with development boards and lab equipment.
- Support pre-silicon validation efforts, including simulation, emulation, and FPGA prototyping.
- Support post-silicon bringup, validation, performance characterization, system integration and debug.","responsibilities":"Collaborate with the systems team to understand algorithm implementations in Python.
Implement algorithms on embedded CPUs.
Ensure firmware results are aligned with the Python reference implementation.
Integrate algorithms into the firmware flow to enable time-critical, online calibration.
Debug and resolve issues related to corner cases, part-to-part variations, and other anomalies.
Handle error conditions and implement appropriate recovery mechanisms.
Preferred Qualifications
Strong background in embedded FW development using C and assembly languages, familiarity with ARM CPUs and its internals.
Good understanding of embedded wireless communication systems, Radio and PHY fundamentals and key RF performance metrics.
Familiarity with digital signal processing algorithms.
Familiarity with Multi core environment.
Understanding python match library like numpy/SciPy and how to convert it to embedded C.
Understanding difference between fix point and floating points and how to make arithmetic tradeoff and simplify embedded usage.
Experience with low-level hardware interfaces, register and interrupt programming, bare-metal software development, clock and power management.
Solid understanding of basic embedded concepts such as RTOS, concurrency, multi-processor systems.
Fluency in using lab equipment such as logic analyzers, oscilloscopes, network analyzers, spectrum analyzers, signal generators, and power meters.
Experience implementing diagnostics, manufacturing tests, and protocol compliance software.
Knowledgeable of industry standards for wireless communications such as Bluetooth, WLAN, ZigBee, UWB.
Proficient in at least one of the scripting languages such as Python, Perl, or Tcl.
Excellent communication skills - both written and oral.
Minimum Qualifications
Bachelors Degree in EE,CE, or related field.
Embedded systems knowledge including:
Multi thread environment.
Interrupt thread processing/latency.
HW/FW semaphores/resource management.
Pay & Benefits
At Apple, base pay is one part of our total compensation package and is determined within a range. This provides the opportunity to progress as you grow and develop within a role. The base pay range for this role is between $120,300 and $210,100, and your base pay will depend on your skills, qualifications, experience, and location.
Apple employees also have the opportunity to become an Apple shareholder through participation in Apple's discretionary employee stock programs. Apple employees are eligible for discretionary restricted stock unit awards, and can purchase Apple stock at a discount if voluntarily participating in Apple's Employee Stock Purchase Plan. You'll also receive benefits including: Comprehensive medical and dental coverage, retirement benefits, a range of discounted products and free services, and for formal education related to advancing your career at Apple, reimbursement for certain educational expenses - including tuition. Additionally, this role might be eligible for discretionary bonuses or commission payments as well as relocation. Learn more about Apple Benefits
Note: Apple benefit, compensation and employee stock programs are subject to eligibility requirements and other terms of the applicable plan or program.

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About Apple

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Imagine what you could do here! At Apple, new ideas have a way of becoming extraordinary products, services, and customer experiences very quickly. Bring passion and dedication to your job and there's no telling what you could accomplish. Dynamic, intelligent people and inspiring, innovative technologies are the norm here. The people who work here have reinvented entire industries with all Apple Hardware products. The same real passion for innovation that goes into our products also applies to our practices strengthening our dedication to leave the world better than we found it.

Industry

Computer and electronic product manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Cupertino, CA, US

Year founded

1976