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# Principal Firmware Engineer

- **Company:** Monarch
- **Location:** San Diego, CA, United States
- **Experience:** Expert
- **Salary:** $175,000.0 - $225,000.0
- **Contract:** Permanent contract
- **Skills:** Boolean Algebra, C++ (Programming Language), Code Review, Communications Protocols, Computer Engineering, Software Design Patterns, Microprocessors, Embedded Software, Ethernet, Network Interface Controllers, Firmware, Field-Programmable Gate Array (FPGA), Hardware Description Language, Performance Tuning, Vivado, Serial Peripheral Interface, Solid Principles
- **Published:** July 28, 2026
- **Apply:** https://www.dice.com/job-detail/f8dfa1f6-ffd1-4305-81bd-618b622c166d

## About the Role

Join our fast-paced and passionate team as a Principal Firmware Engineer. As we scale, you will be instrumental in building our foundation from the ground up. This is a dynamic, hands-on role for a self-starter who thrives in a fluid startup environment. You'll have the opportunity to work on cutting edge technologies, work closely with leadership, and develop and implement engineering practices that support our mission and growth. Your key responsibilities are as follows, * A bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or a related field.

 * Minimum of 7 years of relevant experience, ideally within a startup or technology company.

Skills:

 * 7+ years of professional experience in FPGA/Embedded Development.
 * Strong understanding of digital logic, computer architecture, and electronics.
 * Experience using Xilinx Vivado/Vitis development toolset
 * Experience performing FPGA simulation, integration, and verification.
 * Experience developing hybrid SOC and soft-microprocessor architectures.
 * Proficient in C/C++ language with an emphasis in real-time embedded development.
 * Experience working through complex timing closure issues in system involving dense IP and algorithmic outputs.
 * Strong problem-solving skills and ability to work independently and in a team.
 * Experience with device level communication protocols (e.g., SPI, I2C, Ethernet, Serial, SerDes).
 * Knowledge of firmware best practices, including design patterns, SOLID principles, and performance optimization.
 * Experience working in an agile development environment.

Startup Mindset:

 * You're creative, flexible, and eager to wear multiple hats.
 * You're passionate about building systems from the ground up and comfortable with ambiguity and change.

## Description

* Develop FPGA based solutions utilizing hybrid C/C++ microprocessor and HDL fabric architectures.
 * Provide firmware subject matter expertise in architectural development and multi-disciplinary design trade-studies and down-selects.
 * Work with program management and project engineers to develop, execute and status project scope.
 * Work with internal and external stakeholders to develop and verify/validate embedded systems requirements and interface control documents.
 * Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including firmware, hardware, and software engineers.
 * Participate in code reviews, provide constructive feedback, and adhere to best coding practices.
 * Maintain clear and well-structured documentation.
 * Work independently and in a team while over communicating with the manager, project engineer, and the teammates.
 * Use tenacity, patience, self-discipline, and passion for excellence to assure accuracy of execution schedule, data quality/integrity, conformance to company best practices, clarity in communication, and documentation.
 * Provide technical guidance and mentorship to junior engineers.


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