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Software Firmware Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Anduril Industries

Senior Firmware Engineer

Costa Mesa, CA · On-site

$128K - $169K/yr

We are looking for software engineers, hardware engineers, roboticists, and front-end mobile ... ABOUT THE ROLE We are looking for a Senior Firmware Engineer with experience developing low-level ...

Acloche-Direct Hire

Be Seen First

Senior Principal Engineer, Software / Firmware

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

$250K - $280K/yr

Senior Principal Engineer, Software/Firmware Salary : 250,000 - 280,000/yr Location : Santa Clara, CA (onsite) Must be eligible to work in the United States. Sponsorship is unavailable. Relocation ...

Apple

Embedded Software Engineer

Cupertino, CA · On-site

$162K - $213K/yr

If so, we have the perfect opportunity for you! We're looking for a Software/Firmware Engineer to join Apple's Platform Architecture team and help shape the future of Apple's integrated systems. In ...

Anduril Industries

Firmware Engineer

Lexington, MA

Work closely with hardware and software engineers for component selection, troubleshooting, and ... Develop firmware across multiple products at various stages of their development cycle REQUIRED ...

Anduril Industries

Firmware Engineer

Lexington, MA · On-site

Work closely with hardware and software engineers for component selection, troubleshooting, and ... Develop firmware across multiple products at various stages of their development cycle REQUIRED ...

Anduril Industries

Firmware Engineer

Costa Mesa, CA · On-site

$166K - $220K/yr

We are looking for software engineers, hardware engineers, roboticists, and front-end mobile ... ABOUT THE ROLE We are looking for a Firmware Engineer with experience developing low-level software ...

Anduril Industries

Firmware Engineer

Costa Mesa, CA · On-site

$166K - $220K/yr

We are looking for software engineers, hardware engineers, roboticists, and front-end mobile ... ABOUT THE ROLE We are looking for a Firmware Engineer with experience developing low-level software ...

Eden Capital Careers

Firmware Engineer

Leander, TX

Hardware & Software Integration * Work at the intersection of: * Electronics * Sensors * Actuators ... firmware engineering experience. * Strong experience with: * Embedded C/C++ or Rust development

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Software Firmware Engineer information

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How much do software firmware engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for software firmware engineer in the United States is $72.08, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $50.72 and $91.35 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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++, and often use tools like oscilloscopes and debuggers to ensure hardware and software integration. Their role is essential in creating reliable, efficient firmware for electronic products.

Are firmware engineers in demand?

Firmware engineers are in high demand due to the growth of embedded systems in industries such as consumer electronics, automotive, and healthcare. They often require skills in C/C++, debugging tools, and real-time operating systems, making their expertise valuable in developing and maintaining hardware-software integration.

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

AspectSoftware Firmware EngineerEmbedded Software Engineer
Primary FocusDeveloping low-level firmware for hardware devicesDesigning software for embedded systems and devices
Required SkillsC/C++, hardware interfaces, real-time OSC/C++, microcontrollers, hardware integration
Work EnvironmentHardware labs, embedded device developmentEmbedded systems, IoT devices, consumer electronics
Industry UsageConsumer electronics, automotive, industrialConsumer electronics, medical devices, aerospace

Both roles involve working with hardware and low-level programming, but Software Firmware Engineers focus on firmware development for hardware components, while Embedded Software Engineers design software for embedded systems within various devices. The roles often overlap, but their specific focus areas differ based on the hardware and application context.

What engineer makes $500,000 a year?

Software Firmware Engineers in senior or specialized roles with extensive experience, advanced skills in embedded systems, and working for large tech companies or in high-demand industries can earn $500,000 or more annually. Such compensation often includes base salary, bonuses, and stock options, especially in competitive markets or executive-level positions.

What does a Software Firmware Engineer do?

A Software Firmware Engineer is responsible for developing and maintaining the low-level software that controls hardware devices. They write code that allows hardware components, such as microcontrollers and embedded systems, to function as intended. Their work bridges the gap between hardware and higher-level software, ensuring devices operate efficiently and reliably. Firmware engineers often work closely with hardware designers to test and troubleshoot integrated systems.

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

To thrive as a Software Firmware Engineer, you need a solid background in embedded systems, programming languages like C/C++, and a degree in computer engineering, electrical engineering, or a related field. Familiarity with development tools such as debuggers, oscilloscopes, version control systems (e.g., Git), and sometimes certifications like Embedded Systems certifications are common requirements. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication help you collaborate with hardware teams and troubleshoot complex technical issues. These skills and qualities are crucial for producing reliable, efficient firmware that seamlessly integrates with hardware products.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior software firmware engineers with extensive experience, specialized skills in embedded systems, and certifications can earn $300,000 or more annually, especially in high-demand industries like aerospace, defense, or advanced technology. Compensation often includes bonuses, stock options, and other benefits, reflecting their expertise and critical role in product development.

How does a Software Firmware Engineer typically collaborate with hardware teams during product development?

Software Firmware Engineers work closely with hardware engineers throughout the product lifecycle, especially during the design, prototyping, and testing phases. They often participate in cross-functional meetings to ensure firmware is compatible with evolving hardware specifications and to troubleshoot integration issues. Regular collaboration may include reviewing schematics, conducting joint debugging sessions, and providing input on hardware-software interface requirements. This teamwork is essential for delivering reliable, optimized products that meet performance and quality standards.
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Software Firmware Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Software Firmware Engineer job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 15% Full Time, 70% Part Time, 3% Temporary, and 12% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $149,933 per year, or $72.1 per hour.

Senior Principal Engineer, Software/Firmware

Fox Point Recruitment LLc

Santa Clara, CA

$200K - $260K/yr

Full-time

Posted 22 days ago

Be an early applicant

Job description

Job Opportunity: Senior Principal Engineer, Software/Firmware

Location: Onsite, Santa Clara, CA, US

Industry: Engineering / Architecture

Salary: USD $200,000 – $260,000 / year

Sponsorship: None available at this time


About the Opportunity

A leading technology engineering company is seeking the expertise of a Senior Principal Firmware Engineer ( Software/Firmware Coherent Optical Module Firmware / SoC-Based Embedded Platforms / CPO) to join their Optical Connectivity firmware team in Santa Clara. This is a highly technical individual contributor role with broad program ownership across one or more coherent optical module programs. The ideal candidate brings deep expertise in embedded firmware for optical transceivers, a track record of leading complex multi-generation programs, and the ability to work effectively across firmware, hardware, DSP, and customer-facing teams.

Key Responsibilities

  • Own Firmware Development: Lead the firmware development for coherent optical module programs (e.g., 400ZR/ZR+, 800ZR), managing the process from initial architecture through production release.
  • Lead Program Efforts: Drive program-level firmware efforts, including bring-up, calibration, validation, and critical customer delivery milestones.
  • Design Advanced Features: Architect and implement advanced firmware features such as hitless firmware upgrades, CMIS compliance, bootloader architecture, calibration and control engines, and hardware adaptation layers.
  • Cross-Functional Collaboration: Partner closely with DSP, hardware, ATE, and test engineering teams to isolate and resolve complex, system-level issues.
  • Support Customer Engagements: Respond directly to technical inquiries, debug complex field issues, and deliver robust firmware solutions that meet hyperscaler and carrier requirements.
  • Shape Architecture: Contribute to firmware architecture decisions across the broader optics firmware platform, including shared infrastructure, tooling, and release processes.
  • Mentor & Guide: Serve as a technical resource and subject matter expert, mentoring and guiding other engineers on the team.

Required Qualifications:

  • Experience: 15+ years of experience in embedded software/firmware architecture, design, and implementation.
  • Optical Expertise: Deep expertise in coherent optical module firmware (400ZR, 800ZR, or equivalent) and associated industry standards (OIF-400ZR, C-CMIS, CMIS 4.x/5.x).
  • Infrastructure Design: Strong background in bootloader design, firmware upgrade mechanisms (including hitless/in-service upgrades), and flash management.
  • Platform Knowledge: Comprehensive experience with SoC-based embedded platforms (MCU/DSP-based architectures).
  • Technical Stack: Proficiency in C/C++ firmware development and Python-based test/automation scripting.
  • Program Delivery: Demonstrated ability to own and deliver complex programs end-to-end — from alpha bring-up through GA release and production support.
  • Debugging & Lab Skills: Strong debugging skills across hardware/firmware boundaries; hands-on experience with lab bench bring-up, ATE integration, and field issue resolution.
  • Tools & Workflows: Solid experience utilizing Jira, GitLab, and CI/CD-based firmware release flows.
  • Communication: Excellent communication skills, with a proven ability to work effectively with customers, hardware engineers, and DSP teams.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Prior experience working directly at an optical module company or an optical semiconductor company.
  • Familiarity with leading optical or coherent DSP platforms (or industry equivalents).
  • A strong background in calibration and control algorithms for optical components (such as EDFA, MZ, TOSA, etc.).