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Software Firmware Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Anduril Industries

Firmware Engineer

Costa Mesa, CA

$166K - $220K/yr

TRS hires software engineers & hardware engineers, who are excited to build across a diverse and ... 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 ...

Agilent

R&D Software/Firmware Engineer

Santa Clara, CA

$140K - $219K/yr

This R&D Software/Firmware Engineer role is essential to the development of embedded software that powers Agilent's mass spectrometry platforms, ensuring reliable performance, accuracy, and quality ...

Phizenix

Senior Principal Firmware Engineer

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

$140K - $185K/yr

... Engineer, Software/Firmware - coherent optical module firmware/SoC-based embedded platforms ... CPORequired15+ years of experience in embedded software/firmware architecture, design, and ...

New

Microsoft

Firmware Engineer

Redmond, WA · On-site

$109K - $180K/yr

Collaborate with silicon, hardware, architecture and software/firmware teams to deliver secure ... Bachelor's Degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, or related ...

OnLogic

Firmware Engineer

South Burlington, VT · On-site

This dynamic role involves firmware and software coding across various CPU, SoC, and ... Our Engineering team creates cutting-edge industrial computers by finding innovative solutions on a ...

ConnectDER

Real-Time Firmware Engineer

Philadelphia, PA · On-site

$115K - $130K/yr

Collaborate closely with hardware, firmware, and software engineers in a highly integrated environment * Develop requirements, specifications, and test strategies * Debug and troubleshoot complex ...

OnLogic

Firmware Engineer

South Burlington, VT

This dynamic role involves firmware and software coding across various CPU, SoC, and ... Our Engineering team creates cutting-edge industrial computers by finding innovative solutions on a ...

OnLogic

Firmware Engineer

South Burlington, VT · On-site

This dynamic role involves firmware and software coding across various CPU, SoC, and ... Our Engineering team creates cutting-edge industrial computers by finding innovative solutions on a ...

OnLogic

Firmware Engineer

Cary, NC · On-site

This dynamic role involves firmware and software coding across various CPU, SoC, and ... Our Engineering team creates cutting-edge industrial computers by finding innovative solutions on a ...

OnLogic

Firmware Engineer

Cary, NC

This dynamic role involves firmware and software coding across various CPU, SoC, and ... Our Engineering team creates cutting-edge industrial computers by finding innovative solutions on a ...

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Software Firmware Engineer information

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How much do software firmware engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 11, 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 engineers make $500,000?

Senior software firmware engineers with extensive experience, specialized skills in embedded systems, and leadership roles can earn $500,000 or more annually, especially in high-cost-of-living areas or within large technology companies. Achieving this level often requires advanced certifications, a strong track record, and involvement in complex projects or management positions.

Will AI replace the firmware engineer?

AI is unlikely to fully replace firmware engineers, as their role involves complex problem-solving, hardware interaction, and system integration that require human expertise. Instead, AI tools can assist firmware engineers by automating routine tasks and improving development efficiency. Firmware engineers will continue to be essential for designing, testing, and maintaining embedded systems and firmware code.

What does a firmware engineer do?

A firmware engineer designs, develops, and tests low-level software that controls hardware devices such as embedded systems, microcontrollers, and electronic components. They work with programming languages like C or C++, and often use tools like oscilloscopes and debuggers to ensure hardware-software integration. Their role is essential in creating reliable, efficient firmware for consumer electronics, industrial equipment, and IoT devices.

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 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

Senior Principal Firmware Engineer

Phizenix

Santa Clara, CA • On-site

$200K - $250K/yr

Full-time

Posted yesterday

Job description

What You Can Expect
We are looking for a Senior Principal Firmware Engineer to join Client's 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.
What You'll Do Own firmware development for coherent optical module programs (e.g., 400ZR/ZR+, 800ZR), from architecture through production release
Lead program-level firmware efforts, including bring-up, calibration, validation, and customer delivery milestones
Design and implement advanced firmware features such as hitless firmware upgrade, CMIS compliance, bootloader architecture, calibration and control engines, and hardware adaptation layers
Drive cross-functional collaboration with DSP, hardware, ATE, and test engineering teams to resolve complex system-level issues
Support customer engagements — respond to technical inquiries, debug field issues, and deliver firmware solutions that meet hyperscaler and carrier requirements
Contribute to firmware architecture decisions across the broader optics firmware platform, including shared infrastructure, tooling, and release processes
Mentor and guide other engineers on the team; serve as a technical resource and subject matter expert
What We're Looking For
Senior Principal Engineer, Software/Firmware - coherent optical module firmware/SoC-based embedded platforms/CPORequired15+ years of experience in embedded software/firmware architecture, design, and implementation
Deep expertise in coherent optical module firmware (400ZR, 800ZR, or equivalent) and associated standards (OIF-400ZR, C-CMIS, CMIS 4.x/5.x)
Strong background in bootloader design, firmware upgrade mechanisms (including hitless/in-service upgrade), and flash management
Experience with SoC-based embedded platforms (MCU/DSP-based architectures)
Proficiency in C/C++ firmware development and Python-based test/automation scripting
Demonstrated ability to own and deliver programs end-to-end — from alpha bring-up through GA release and production support
Strong debugging skills across hardware/firmware boundaries; experience with lab bench bring-up, ATE integration, and field issue resolution
Experience with Jira, GitLab, and CI/CD-based firmware release flows
Excellent communication skills; able to work effectively with customers, hardware engineers, and DSP teams
PreferredPrior experience at an optical module company or optical semiconductor company
Familiarity with Marvell optical or coherent DSP platforms or equivalent
Background in calibration and control algorithms for optical components (EDFA, MZ, TOSA, etc.)

California Pay Range
$200,000—$250,000 USD