Staff SSD Firmware Test Engineer

Micron Technology • Longmont, CO

4d

About The Position

Micron Technology's Firmware & Product Test (FPT) team is seeking a Staff Engineer to lead validation strategy for enterprise SSD firmware. This role involves architecting next-generation test frameworks, driving AI/ML-powered validation methodologies, and owning end-to-end verification of complex NVMe front-end features across multiple product lines. The position serves as a technical authority at the intersection of firmware validation and applied machine learning, influencing the strategic direction of test infrastructure, mentoring engineers, and impacting firmware architecture decisions through deep validation insights. The FPT team develops verification plans in Python, ensures compliance with NVMe and security protocols, and performs white-box, grey-box, and black-box testing in simulation, FPGA, and prototype hardware environments.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree with ~8+ years of relevant experience, Master's with ~6+ years, or PhD with ~4+ years in Computer Science, Data Science, Electrical/Computer Engineering, or a related field.
• Expert-level Python proficiency, including strong command of NumPy, pandas, and scikit-learn, with a track record of building production-quality automation frameworks.
• Deep expertise in test architecture, automation strategy, and validation methodologies, with proven success designing scalable test solutions.
• Demonstrated experience applying ML models to real-world problems — designing, training, and deploying models for test optimization or failure analysis.
• Proven ability to lead technical initiatives, influence without authority, and drive alignment across teams.
• Excellent communication skills, with the ability to convey complex technical concepts to diverse audiences including senior leadership.

Nice To Haves

• Proficiency with ML frameworks such as TensorFlow or PyTorch, plus experience with MLOps practices.
• Track record of implementing AI/ML solutions in production testing or validation environments.
• Experience leveraging AI/Generative AI tools to improve engineering productivity, test automation, data analysis, and problem solving. Familiarity with Python-based AI/ML frameworks and responsible use of AI technologies is highly desirable.
• Deep understanding of embedded systems, firmware architecture, and hardware-software interfaces.
• Working knowledge of storage industry standards (NVMe, PCIe, OCP) at the specification level.
• Familiarity with NAND flash memory architecture and SSD firmware validation methodologies.
• Proficiency with Rust or C for firmware code comprehension, plus Linux/Windows system administration and Git/CI/CD pipelines.
• Contributions to open-source projects, patents, or published technical work.
• Experience leading cross-functional initiatives or small teams.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design and execution of firmware verification strategies for customer specifications and NVMe protocols, owning validation of complex front-end features (SMART, Trim, Get Log Page, OCP) across multiple product lines.
• Architect scalable grey-box, white-box, and black-box test frameworks that become organizational standards for firmware quality.
• Drive root-cause analysis for critical field and regression failures; establish systematic debug methodologies and knowledge-sharing practices across the team.
• Own the test infrastructure roadmap — including automation frameworks, CI/CD integration, and reporting dashboards — and influence tooling decisions at the department level.
• Design and deploy AI/ML solutions for test optimization, intelligent failure triage, predictive analytics, anomaly detection, and test prioritization.
• Lead code reviews, define test coverage standards, and drive continuous improvement in code quality and test effectiveness.
• Present technical findings, risk assessments, and strategic recommendations to senior leadership and cross-functional stakeholders.
• Mentor junior and mid-level engineers, providing technical guidance and fostering a culture of engineering excellence.
• Collaborate with firmware architects, product managers, and customers to define testability requirements and influence firmware architecture decisions.

Benefits

• Choice of medical, dental and vision plans
• Benefit programs that help protect your income if you are unable to work due to illness or injury
• Paid family leave
• Robust paid time-off program
• Paid holidays

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior