Sr. Software Engineer (Firmware)

Adtran Networks • Atlanta, GA

60d • Hybrid

About The Position

The Senior Software/Firmware Engineer will design, develop, and test embedded software for Reconfigurable Optical Add-Drop Multiplexers (ROADMs). You will collaborate closely with optical, hardware, and test engineers to deliver high-quality, production-grade firmware for next-generation optical networking systems.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field.
• 10+ years of experience in embedded software or firmware development, preferably in telecommunications or networking.
• Strong proficiency in modern C/C++, including adherence to C++ best practices and coding standards.
• Experience with RTOS, low-level debugging, and hardware/software integration.
• Solid understanding of embedded communication protocols (SPI, I²C, UART) and hands-on experience developing and debugging device drivers.
• Familiarity with ARM or other microcontroller architectures.
• Proficient with Git and collaborative development workflows (branching, reviews, CI).
• Skilled in reading schematics, using oscilloscopes, and troubleshooting embedded systems.
• Experience participating in code reviews, testing, and documentation to ensure high-quality deliverables.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.
• Demonstrated ability to work effectively with cross-functional teams, including QA, product management, and manufacturing.
• Commitment to continuous learning and staying current with modern C++ and emerging embedded technologies.
• Must be authorized to work in the United States.
• Energetic, collaborative, and eager to work with a diverse team.
• Positive attitude, adaptability, and a genuine desire to learn, innovate, and excel.

Nice To Haves

• Experience developing device drivers for ASICs or FPGAs.
• Hands-on experience with CMake and scripting languages (Bash, Python, Ruby, or Perl).
• Experience implementing CI/CD pipelines for embedded platforms.
• Familiarity with Agile/Scrum methodologies.
• Understanding of optical networking technologies such as OTN, Gigabit Ethernet, and related transport systems.
• Proficiency in using oscilloscopes, logic analyzers, and diagnostic tools for system validation and debugging.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and integrate modern C/C++ embedded software running on Linux and real-time operating systems (RTOS) such as FreeRTOS.
• Own the complete software development lifecycle — from requirements and architecture through implementation, testing, debugging, and deployment.
• Develop and maintain device drivers for fiber-optic components (e.g., WSS, OCM) and other hardware subsystems.
• Collaborate with hardware teams on schematic reviews, hardware design input, and board bring-up.
• Partner cross-functionally with optical, hardware, and test engineers in an Agile environment to meet product milestones and quality goals.
• Develop and maintain unit tests, automation scripts, and test frameworks to verify and validate firmware functionality.

Benefits

• Join a team that’s shaping the future of optical networking.
• We offer a collaborative environment, opportunities for professional growth, and the chance to work with cutting-edge technologies that power global communications.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior
• Number of Employees: 1,001-5,000 employees