Firmware Engineer - Cybersecurity
About The Position
The Firmware Engineer focuses on cybersecurity in embedded firmware systems. The role involves designing, implementing, and testing firmware, developing security features, applying secure development practices, and assessing and remediating vulnerabilities. The engineer works with Hardware Engineers on hardware-based security features and supports compliance with cybersecurity standards and customer requirements. Responsibilities also include maintaining security documentation and mentoring Associate Engineers and Technicians in secure development practices. The position is based at SEL’s corporate office in Pullman, Washington. The company describes the location as offering small-town living and access to nearby outdoor recreation, schools, and universities. The anticipated annual salary range is $89,000–$134,100, with starting pay determined individually based on relevant experience, skills, knowledge, and training. Candidates may be considered at different levels based on their background.
Requirements
- Typically 2+ years of experience in embedded systems firmware development.
- Experience with real-time firmware design.
- Experience with C, C++, and assembly languages.
- Experience with embedded Linux systems development using C, C++, Python, and other scripting languages.
- Working knowledge of embedded systems cybersecurity fundamentals, including applied cryptography, secure boot and secure firmware updates, secure coding practices and memory-safety vulnerabilities, threat modeling, and risk assessment.
- Strong writing, documentation, and speaking skills.
- Ability to learn new skills and assume new responsibilities.
- Ability to work cooperatively in a team environment.
Nice To Haves
- Experience with static analysis, fuzzing, and penetration testing tools.
- Experience with hardware security features such as secure elements, TPMs, TrustZone or equivalent, and hardware crypto engines.
- Experience with secure network protocols and role-based access control.
- Knowledge of cybersecurity standards such as NERC CIP, IEC 62443, IEEE 1686, and NIST.
- Security certifications such as CSSLP, GICSP, or similar.
- Knowledge of industrial controls.
- Knowledge of 3-phase electric power systems.
- Knowledge of modern communications protocols.
- Knowledge of digital and analog circuitry.
- Knowledge of digital communications and signal processing.
- Project management experience.
Responsibilities
- Participate in the design, implementation, and testing of embedded firmware systems with an emphasis on cybersecurity.
- Design and implement security features such as secure boot, firmware signing and updating, authentication and access control, cryptographic services, secure key storage, and security event logging.
- Apply secure coding practices, threat modeling, and security design reviews throughout the firmware development lifecycle.
- Perform security testing and vulnerability analysis, including static analysis, fuzzing, and penetration testing, and analyze and remediate identified vulnerabilities.
- Understand hardware and software interactions and collaborate with Hardware Engineers on hardware-based security features, such as secure elements, TPMs, hardware crypto accelerators, and debug-port protection.
- Support compliance with applicable cybersecurity standards and customer requirements, including NERC CIP, IEC 62443, IEEE 1686, and NIST guidance.
- Prepare and maintain security requirements, designs, and test documentation.
- Mentor Associate Engineers and Technicians in secure development practices.
Benefits
- Employer-funded stock ownership plan (ESOP) and personal 401(k) options.
- Medical, prescription, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance.
- 10 paid holidays.
- Annual vacation accrual starting at 12 days.
- 9 paid sick days.
- Paid family and medical leave covering 90% of pay.
- STEM courses, apprenticeships, tuition assistance, and engineering development programs.
- Wellness, fertility, adoption, and flexible spending benefits.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
Education Level
No Education Listed
