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Firmware Validation Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Firmware Validation Engineer

Foster City, CA ยท 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 ...

... 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 ...

Role: Firmware Engineer (Full Time) Location: Cupertino CA(Onsite) Mandatory Skills: Firmware ... Firmware validation to ensure operability on new products * Firmware environment is C, C++ and ...

Requirements - Firmware Engineer Firmware configuration and maintenance for new product bringup ... Firmware validation to ensure operability on new products * Firmware environment is C,C++ and ...

Showing results 21-40

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 19, 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 is a firmware validation engineer?

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.

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 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.

Are firmware validation engineers in demand?

Firmware validation engineers are in demand due to the increasing complexity of embedded systems and the need for reliable software in industries such as automotive, consumer electronics, and telecommunications. Skills in testing tools, scripting, and understanding hardware interfaces enhance job prospects in this field.

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 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:

Infographic showing various Firmware Validation Engineer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 6% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $165,245 per year, or $79.4 per hour.

Firmware Validation Engineer

Zoox

Foster City, CA โ€ข On-site

$155K - $211K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, PTO

Re-posted 12 days ago


Job description

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 includes testing embedded applications, control logic, and feature integrations across hardware interfaces, sensors, and actuators to confirm they meet functional, performance, and safety requirements. Your work directly impacts the quality and readiness of customer-facing features by catching issues early, improving integration stability, and ensuring smooth delivery of these features to internal customers. Through close collaboration with firmware developers, systems engineers and cross-functional teams, you will help deliver robust and reliable features to production.
In this role, you will:
  • Define and develop comprehensive test plans based on requirements, trace testcases to requirements, set pass/fail criteria and refine requirements based on test outcomes
  • Develop and implement test plans on multiple test layers (HiL, Dyno, Vehicle)
  • Define tooling needs to execute tests and evaluate results efficiently
  • Collaborate with system, firmware & hardware engineers to ensureimplementations meet requirements and desired functionality in accordance withproduct requirements.
  • Investigate firmware issues through data analysis and issue reproduction

Qualifications
  • BS degree in Electrical, Mechanical, Computer or Systems Engineering
  • 4+ years of experience in developing or testing embedded software
  • Test automation with Python or other scripting languages
  • Experience writing code with source control (Git)
  • Hands-on technical experience debugging complex systems involving networked microprocessors and software-controlled electrical or electromechanical devices
  • Experience parsing and analyzing log data/source code and identifying rootcause.
  • Positive attitude, team player, and ability to quickly adapt to changes

Bonus Qualifications
  • Working knowledge of components/systems such as drive unit, power steering, actuators, braking systems, powertrain and their interactions.
  • Experience with Python testing frameworks (Robot, pytest, etc.)
  • Experience with continuous integration/deployment systems
  • Experience using tools such as JIRA, TestRail, Polarion/JAMA/Doors, XRAY, etc.
  • Experience in systems validation or integration
  • Ability to develop test plans based on FMEA/vehicle safety concepts analysis

$155,000 - $211,000 a year
Base Salary Range
There are three major components to compensation for this position: salary, Amazon Restricted Stock Units (RSUs), and Zoox Stock Appreciation Rights. A sign-on bonus may be offered as part of the compensation package. The listed range applies only to the base salary. Compensation will vary based on geographic location and level. Leveling, as well as positioning within a level, is determined by a range of factors, including, but not limited to, a candidate's relevant years of experience, domain knowledge, and interview performance. The salary range listed in this posting is representative of the range of levels Zoox is considering for this position.
Zoox also offers a comprehensive package of benefits, including paid time off (e.g. sick leave, vacation, bereavement), unpaid time off, Zoox Stock Appreciation Rights, Amazon RSUs, health insurance, long-term care insurance, long-term and short-term disability insurance, and life insurance.
About Zoox
Zoox is developing the first ground-up, fully autonomous vehicle fleet and the supporting ecosystem required to bring this technology to market. Sitting at the intersection of robotics, machine learning, and design, Zoox aims to provide the next generation of mobility-as-a-service in urban environments. We're looking for top talent that shares our passion and wants to be part of a fast-moving and highly execution-oriented team.
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Accommodations
If you need an accommodation to participate in the application or interview process please reach out to [email protected] or your assigned recruiter.
A Final Note:
You do not need to match every listed expectation to apply for this position. Here at Zoox, we know that diverse perspectives foster the innovation we need to be successful, and we are committed to building a team that encompasses a variety of backgrounds, experiences, and skills.
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.