Senior Principal Engineer, Software/Firmware - coherent optical module firmware/SoC-based embedded platforms/CPO
About The Position
Marvell's Optics firmware team develops the software that powers the next generation of optical interconnects — from high-volume Data Center Interconnect (DCI) coherent modules (400ZR, 800ZR/ZR+) deployed at hyperscale cloud providers, to emerging Co-Packaged Optics (CPO) platforms that will redefine how compute and optical I/O are integrated at the rack level. Our products are at the heart of the industry's transition to higher-bandwidth, lower-power optical connectivity, and our firmware is a key differentiator in winning and retaining the world's most demanding customers. You'll join a team of experienced engineers who have shipped multiple generations of coherent module platforms and are now building the foundation for what comes next. We are looking for a Senior Principal Firmware Engineer to join Marvell'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.
Requirements
- 15+ 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
Nice To Haves
- Prior 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.)
Responsibilities
- 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
Benefits
- employee stock purchase plan with a 2-year look back
- family support programs
- robust mental health resources
- recognition and service awards
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Senior
Education Level
No Education Listed
