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Firmware Validation Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Apple

Firmware Validation Engineer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

... Validation, and FW/SW engineering. Description In this highly visible role, you will be at the ... Proficiency in programming with python and C. Knowledgable with hardware/firmware development life ...

Zoox

Firmware Validation Engineer

Foster City, CA

$155K - $211K/yr

As a Firmware Validation Engineer, you will validate firmware functionality at the component, subsystem and system level, ensuring features operate reliably within the broader vehicle platform. This ...

Apple

Firmware Validation Engineer

Bodega Bay, CA

$184K - $324K/yr

... Validation, and FW/SW engineering. Description In this highly visible role, you will be at the ... Proficiency in programming with python and C. Knowledgable with hardware/firmware development life ...

Apple

Firmware Validation Engineer

Bodega Bay, CA

$129K - $225K/yr

... Validation, and FW/SW engineering. Description In this highly visible role, you will be at the ... Proficiency in programming with python and C. Knowledgable with hardware/firmware development life ...

Zoox

Firmware Validation Engineer

Foster City, CA

$155K - $211K/yr

As a Firmware Validation Engineer, you will validate firmware functionality at the component, subsystem and system level, ensuring features operate reliably within the broader vehicle platform. This ...

Apple

Firmware Validation Engineer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

... Validation, and FW/SW engineering. Description In this highly visible role, you will be at the ... Proficiency in programming with python and C. Knowledgable with hardware/firmware development life ...

Zoox

Firmware Validation Engineer

Foster City, CA · On-site

$155K - $211K/yr

As a Firmware Validation Engineer, you will validate firmware functionality at the component, subsystem and system level, ensuring features operate reliably within the broader vehicle platform. This ...

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Firmware Validation Engineer information

See California salary details

$74K

$165.2K

$202.3K

How much do firmware validation engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for firmware validation engineer in California is $165,245.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $141,100.00 and $202,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What engineer makes $500,000 a year?

Highly experienced engineers in specialized fields such as software engineering, data science, or executive-level engineering roles can earn $500,000 or more annually. These positions often require advanced skills, certifications, and leadership responsibilities, typically found in senior or executive roles within large organizations or tech companies.

How does a Firmware Validation Engineer typically interact with other engineering teams during a project?

Firmware Validation Engineers work closely with hardware, software, and QA teams throughout the development cycle. They coordinate with hardware engineers to understand system specifications, collaborate with software developers to clarify integration points, and often join cross-functional meetings to discuss validation strategies and troubleshoot issues. This collaborative environment ensures that firmware meets both technical requirements and quality standards before release, making strong communication skills essential for success in this role.

What is the salary of firmware validation engineer?

The salary of a firmware validation engineer typically ranges from $70,000 to $120,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and company size. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced engineers with specialized skills or certifications can earn higher salaries. Compensation often includes benefits such as health insurance and paid time off.

What does a firmware validation engineer do?

A firmware validation engineer tests and verifies the functionality, reliability, and safety of firmware used in electronic devices. They develop test plans, execute tests, analyze results, and ensure firmware meets quality standards, often using tools like debugging software and test automation frameworks. This role requires knowledge of embedded systems, programming skills, and attention to detail to identify and resolve issues before deployment.

What are Firmware Validation Engineers?

Firmware Validation Engineers are professionals who test and verify the functionality and performance of embedded software (firmware) used in electronic devices. They design, develop, and execute test plans to ensure that firmware operates reliably and meets product specifications. Their work helps identify bugs, improve product quality, and ensure compatibility with hardware. These engineers often collaborate closely with firmware developers, hardware engineers, and quality assurance teams throughout the product development lifecycle.

Are firmware engineers in demand?

Firmware validation engineers are in demand due to the growing need for reliable embedded systems in industries such as consumer electronics, automotive, and healthcare. Skills in programming languages like C and C++, along with experience in testing tools and protocols, enhance job prospects in this field. The role often requires knowledge of hardware interfaces and debugging skills to ensure firmware quality and performance.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Firmware Validation Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Firmware Validation Engineer, you need a strong understanding of embedded systems, programming languages like C/C++, and experience with hardware-software integration, often supported by a degree in electrical engineering, computer engineering, or a related field. Familiarity with validation tools such as oscilloscopes, logic analyzers, JTAG debuggers, and version control systems like Git is typically required. Analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication are standout soft skills in this role. Mastering these competencies ensures rigorous testing, reliable firmware releases, and seamless collaboration with cross-functional engineering teams.
What are popular job titles related to Firmware Validation Engineer jobs in California? For Firmware Validation Engineer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Firmware Validation Engineer jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Firmware Validation Engineer jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Firmware Validation Engineer jobs? Cities in California with the most Firmware Validation Engineer job openings:
Firmware Validation Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Firmware Validation Engineer job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $165,245 per year, or $79.4 per hour.

Firmware Validation Engineer

Range Energy

Mountain View, CA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 2 days ago

Job description

About Range Energy
Range Energy builds powered trailers that help electrify heavy-duty trucking without requiring fleets to replace their tractors. We solve real-world problems with real hardware.
 
We move fast, take ownership, and hold a high bar for execution. We value people who are low ego and team-first, calm under pressure, direct and respectful communicators, willing to roll up their sleeves, and focused on solutions, not drama.
 
We operate with high integrity. We do what we say we'll do, we're transparent about risks and tradeoffs, and we build trust through consistent follow-through.
 
The work is hands-on. Sometimes messy. Often fast. Always meaningful.
 
Founded in 2021, Range is led by experienced EV operators from Tesla, Zoox, Honda, and other leading OEMs. We are backed by strong investors and focused on building hardware that fleets will actually use.
 
If you like building real things, solving hard problems, and working with low drama, high output teammates, you will fit here.
 
Position Snapshot
Range Energy is looking for a Firmware Validation Engineer. As a Firmware Validation Engineer at Range, you will be responsible for testing and releasing firmware for our eTrailer System. Collaborating closely with hardware, systems, and embedded software engineers, you will support the development and integration of automated tests and release processes for our eTrailer System. Your role will involve debugging, testing, and documenting various embedded software features on the electronic control units (ECUs) in our trailer platform. These features are multidisciplinary in nature and sit at the intersection of electrification, functional safety, security, software defined vehicles, and energy management. Additionally, you will work with our various suppliers to ensure proper integration and functionality of their software within our trailer platform, and serve as a primary internal contact for addressing, debugging, and resolving firmware issues in pilot and production assets.
We are looking for individuals who are passionate about software, automation, and building robust, scalable solutions. This role requires a high degree of autonomy. Success in this role depends on comfort making recommendations to the wider organization and proactively shaping validation processes, starting from the ground level.
 
 
Range Energy values applicants of all different backgrounds, experiences, and skill sets. If you think you could excel in this role (regardless if you meet all the qualifications), we encourage you to apply. Range Energy is an equal opportunity employer which means that we consider applicants for hire and make employment decisions without unlawful discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, pregnancy, military or veteran status, disability, age, genetic information, or other legally protected status. Range Energy is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodations to job applicants who request an accommodation. If you need a reasonable accommodation, please contact our Talent Acquisition team at [email protected]
 
Inside the Role (Responsibilities)
  • Develop and build upon validation procedures, automated testing, and release acceptance criteria for all firmware and software components of our eTrailer system.
  • Collaborate with hardware, systems, and embedded software engineers
  • Implement, test, and document automated testing infrastructure
  • Write testing and release procedures for the eTrailer system
  • Support hardware/software feature testing, participate in code reviews, contribute to developing best practices for software development at Range Energy 
  • Be hands-on with ECUs and wiring harnesses, testing features and diagnosing issues from the test bench to full trailer systems
  • Serve as the first point of contact for firmware-related field issues reported by our field application engineers, including log collection, issue reproduction, and root-cause narrowing before escalation
The Must Haves (Qualifications)
  • Bachelor's or Master's degree in Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or related field. 
  • 2-8+ years of engineering experience (can include collegiate student teams)
  • Experience developing and debugging applications on embedded devices
  • Experience in programming with C/C++ and Python
  • Experience with version control systems like Git
  • Competency with electrical engineering fundamentals and hardware troubleshooting
  • Comfortable using AI-assisted development tools while maintaining strong, independent technical judgment
  • Desire to learn, solve difficult problems with imaginative solutions, and own complex systems
  • Ability to work independently with minimal guidance or requirements definition, and be flexible to constantly changing company needs
Bonus Points (Preferred Skills)
  • Experience with developing test automation infrastructure and writing test cases (software- and hardware-in-the-loop, pytest, etc.)
  • Experience with CAN bus and automotive control architecture
  • Familiarity working and developing in a Linux environment
  • Experience with UDS
  • Familiarity with EV charging standards and protocols
  • Comfortable with electrical diagnostic and lab equipment (multimeter, oscilloscope, power supplies)
Other Requirements
  • Physical Requirements: Ability to lift and carry up to 40 pounds of equipment. Comfortable with occasional bending, kneeling, and climbing as required for infrastructure maintenance.
  • Travel Requirements: Some travel may be required for customer, pilot, and manufacturing support
  • While we appreciate the importance of schedule flexibility, it's essential to note that the nature of this role necessitates a regular and consistent onsite presence.
What Success Looks Like (first 6-9 months)
  • In your first 6-9 months, success would include establishing a repeatable firmware release validation process, building automated test coverage across core ECUs, and significantly reducing ad-hoc field debugging escalations. This role has a clear growth path into technical leadership in validation, systems, or firmware quality ownership as the team scales.
Range Energy's compensation package includes a competitive salary, equity for all full-time roles, and a generous benefits package. The salary range for Mountain View, CA based applicants is between $180,000 - $215,000 annually. The total compensation will be determined based on multiple factors including domain knowledge, experience and location.
 
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Range Energy participates in E-Verify in the United States. Range Energy will provide the U.S. Social Security Administration (SSA) and, if necessary, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS), with information from each new employee's Form I-9 to confirm work authorization.
 
We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses and identifying potential inconsistencies or verification signals in application materials based on available information. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.
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