Senior Principal Firmware Engineer

Phizenix • Santa Clara, CA

7h • $200,000 - $250,000

About The Position

We are seeking a highly experienced Senior Principal Engineer, Software/Firmware with expertise in coherent optical module firmware, SoC-based embedded platforms, and CPO. This role involves architecture, design, and implementation of firmware for advanced optical modules, ensuring end-to-end delivery from development to production support. The engineer will collaborate with cross-functional teams and customers, utilizing modern development and release methodologies.

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

• Architect, design, and implement embedded software/firmware for coherent optical modules.
• Develop firmware for SoC-based embedded platforms.
• Design bootloader, firmware upgrade mechanisms (including hitless/in-service upgrade), and flash management.
• Own and deliver programs end-to-end, from alpha bring-up through GA release and production support.
• Debug hardware/firmware boundaries, perform lab bench bring-up, integrate with ATE, and resolve field issues.
• Utilize Jira, GitLab, and CI/CD for firmware release flows.
• Communicate effectively with customers, hardware engineers, and DSP teams.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior
• Education Level: No Education Listed