Firmware Engineer (The Embedded Code Maestro) - Unreal Gigs
San Francisco, CA
About the Job
Are you passionate about writing the low-level code that drives cutting-edge hardware? Do you thrive on creating efficient, reliable, and robust firmware for devices that power the future of technology, from IoT devices to automotive systems? If you’re excited about developing firmware that bridges hardware and software, then our client has the perfect opportunity for you. We’re looking for a Firmware Engineer (aka The Embedded Code Maestro) to develop and optimize firmware that powers real-world devices across industries like consumer electronics, industrial automation, and healthcare.
As a Firmware Engineer at our client, you’ll work closely with hardware designers, software developers, and product teams to design and develop firmware for a wide range of embedded systems. You’ll be responsible for writing, testing, and optimizing the code that ensures devices operate efficiently, securely, and reliably in any environment.
Key Responsibilities:
- Develop and Optimize Firmware for Embedded Systems:
- Design and write efficient, reliable, and secure firmware for microcontrollers and embedded processors. You’ll ensure that the firmware is optimized for performance, power consumption, and memory usage while delivering on functionality requirements.
- Collaborate on Hardware-Software Integration:
- Work closely with hardware engineers to ensure seamless integration between firmware and hardware components. You’ll interface with sensors, communication modules, and peripherals to build complete, functional embedded systems.
- Debug and Test Firmware:
- Perform thorough testing and debugging of firmware using a variety of tools such as oscilloscopes, logic analyzers, and emulators. You’ll ensure the firmware meets all performance criteria and resolves any issues that arise in testing or deployment.
- Implement Real-Time Operating Systems (RTOS):
- Design firmware that leverages real-time operating systems (RTOS) for time-critical applications. You’ll configure multitasking, scheduling, and synchronization to ensure that embedded systems meet real-time processing requirements.
- Develop Communication Protocols:
- Implement and optimize communication protocols like I2C, SPI, UART, or CAN for embedded systems. You’ll ensure that devices can reliably communicate with each other and external systems, whether it’s for industrial automation, IoT, or automotive applications.
- Power and Performance Optimization:
- Focus on optimizing firmware for low-power consumption and high performance, especially in battery-operated or resource-constrained environments. You’ll develop energy-efficient firmware to extend the battery life of devices and ensure stable performance.
- Documentation and Code Maintenance:
- Document firmware design, implementation, and debugging processes to ensure maintainability and scalability of systems. You’ll write clean, well-organized code and ensure that the firmware can be easily updated and adapted for future enhancements.
Requirements
Required Skills:
- Firmware Development Expertise: Extensive experience in firmware development for microcontrollers (e.g., ARM Cortex, AVR, PIC, STM32) and embedded systems. You’re skilled in low-level programming languages like C, C++, and assembly.
- Embedded Systems Knowledge: Strong understanding of hardware-software interaction, including how to interface firmware with sensors, actuators, and communication modules. You’re experienced with peripherals like SPI, I2C, UART, and GPIO.
- Real-Time Operating Systems (RTOS): Familiarity with RTOS, including developing firmware that meets real-time performance requirements. You can design systems that handle multiple tasks and interrupts efficiently.
- Debugging and Optimization: Proficiency with debugging tools such as JTAG, logic analyzers, and oscilloscopes. You can optimize firmware for power consumption, performance, and memory usage in resource-constrained environments.
- Collaboration and Problem Solving: Strong collaboration skills, with the ability to work closely with hardware engineers, software developers, and product teams. You’re a skilled problem-solver, able to troubleshoot complex firmware issues.
Educational Requirements:
- Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Embedded Systems, or a related field. Equivalent experience in firmware development is also highly valued.
- Certifications or additional coursework in embedded systems, firmware development, or real-time operating systems are a plus.
Experience Requirements:
- 3+ years of experience in firmware development, with hands-on experience writing, testing, and optimizing code for microcontrollers and embedded processors.
- Proven experience working with real-time operating systems (RTOS) and developing firmware for time-sensitive or performance-critical applications.
- Experience working on firmware for industries such as IoT, automotive, industrial automation, or consumer electronics is highly desirable.
Benefits
- Health and Wellness: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance plans with low co-pays and premiums.
- Paid Time Off: Competitive vacation, sick leave, and 20 paid holidays per year.
- Work-Life Balance: Flexible work schedules and telecommuting options.
- Professional Development: Opportunities for training, certification reimbursement, and career advancement programs.
- Wellness Programs: Access to wellness programs, including gym memberships, health screenings, and mental health resources.
- Life and Disability Insurance: Life insurance and short-term/long-term disability coverage.
- Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Confidential counseling and support services for personal and professional challenges.
- Tuition Reimbursement: Financial assistance for continuing education and professional development.
- Community Engagement: Opportunities to participate in community service and volunteer activities.
- Recognition Programs: Employee recognition programs to celebrate achievements and milestones.