> Markdown version of [/jobs/ext/2591239-embedded-hardware-engineer](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/jobs/ext/2591239-embedded-hardware-engineer). Every page supports `.md` or `Accept: text/markdown`. Links point to the HTML versions so they work for humans too. Agent guide: [/agents.md](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/agents.md). --- # Embedded Hardware Engineer - **Company:** @orchard Llc - **Location:** Colorado Springs, CO, United States - **Contract:** Permanent contract - **Skills:** Board Bringup, Application Programming Interfaces (APIs), Macintosh Computers, System Configuration, Packet Switching, Software Debugging, Embedded C, Ethernet, Firmware, Hardware Design, Joint Test Action (IEEE Standards), Network Layer, Networking Basics, Signal Integrity, Software Engineering, Virtual Local Area Networks, Network Switches, Reliability of Systems, SDN Network, Hardware Infrastructure, Hardware Debugging - **Published:** August 15, 2026 - **Apply:** https://www.disabledperson.com/jobs/74267033-embedded-hardware-engineer ## About the Role Citizenship: Must be a U.S. citizen (due to compliance and defense program requirements). * Microsemi Ethernet Switches: Proven experience configuring and debugging Microsemi (Microchip) Ethernet switch platforms (e.g., SparX, VSC series) in embedded implementations. * Board Bring-Up: Demonstrated track record of bringing up complex, custom embedded hardware boards from first power-on to fully stable operation. * Software/Firmware Capabilities: Hands-on experience developing low-level software/drivers in C for embedded environments. * Hardware Debugging Tools: Hands-on experience with hardware lab equipment (logic analyzers, oscilloscopes, JTAG debuggers, packet sniffers) to isolate signal, timing, and protocol issues. * Ethernet Protocols: Strong understanding of Layer 2/Layer 3 networking fundamentals, VLANs, QoS, MAC/PHY interfaces (SGMII, RGMII, QSGMII), and packet switching concepts. Preferred Skills * Experience with Microsemi's IStaax / MESA / MEBA software API frameworks. * Background in high-reliability, ruggedized, or defense electronics. * Familiarity with hardware design principles (schematic review, layout considerations for high-speed signals). ## Description @Orchard LLC has an immediate need to fulfill a long-term contract role as an Embedded Hardware Engineer with Ethernet Switch experience. The role is in support of a client that builds secure, resilient, micro-edge infrastructure designed to protect critical communications and data against modern threats. Our client combines advanced hardware, embedded systems, and software-defined networking to deliver high-performance technology for defense, critical infrastructure, and national security environments., The Engineering team is seeking a hands-on Contract Engineer specializing in embedded board bring-up and Microsemi Ethernet switch architectures. In this role, you will diagnose, debug, and resolve hardware and configuration issues on Microsemi Ethernet switches deployed within embedded edge hardware systems. You will work closely with hardware and software engineering teams on-site at our Colorado Springs facility, performing hardware fixes, configuring switch fabrics using vendor toolsets, and writing low-level C code to ensure robust communication across our hardware platforms., * Board-Level Systems Bring-Up: Lead and execute low-level hardware bring-up and functional verification for embedded boards featuring Microsemi Ethernet switches. * Microsemi Switch Debug & Configuration: Configure, test, and troubleshoot Microsemi Ethernet switch chips using specialized vendor software/GUI tools and register-level configuration. * Hardware Troubleshooting & Remediation: Identify hardware-level defects, signal integrity or layout issues, and perform board modifications or hardware fixes on Ethernet switch silicon and supporting circuitry. * Embedded C Development: Write, modify, and integrate firmware and driver code in C to interface with Ethernet switch registers, PHYs, and system controllers. * Cross-Functional Collaboration: Partner on-site with hardware design engineers and systems teams to trace packet routing issues, diagnose bus/interface bottlenecks, and validate system reliability. ## Related Videos - [Cyber Security: Small, and Large!](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/259-cyber-security-small-and-large) - [More efficient software for more efficient microchips](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/1164-more-efficient-software-for-more-efficient-microchips) - [Playing Pong on a shoulder press machine](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/100140-playing-pong-on-a-shoulder-press-machine) - [The Gashlycrumb Tinies of AI Networking You Must Know (or Languish!)](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/2067-the-gashlycrumb-tinies-of-ai-networking-you-must-know-or-languish) - [When Agents Meet Legacy: Never Change a Running System](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/100320-when-agents-meet-legacy-never-change-a-running-system) - [Building a hypercar from scratch](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/607-building-a-hypercar-from-scratch) ## Related Articles - [How We Built a Worry-Free System That Runs for 10+ Years – And What We’d Do Again](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/751-how-we-built-a-worry-free-system-that-runs-for-10-years-and-what-we-d-do-again) - [Dev Digest 134 - Where pixels sing?](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/477-dev-digest-134-where-pixels-sing) - [Dev Digest 138 - Are you secure about this?](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/486-dev-digest-138-are-you-secure-about-this) - [Dev Digest 139 - Soft and hard queries](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/487-dev-digest-139-soft-and-hard-queries) - [Why Attend a Developer Event in 2026?](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/688-why-attend-a-developer-event-in-2026) - [Dev Digest 120 - Apple and peers](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/455-dev-digest-120-apple-and-peers)