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# Staff Firmware Engineer

- **Company:** Softing, Inc.
- **Location:** Knoxville, TN, United States
- **Experience:** Expert
- **Contract:** Permanent contract
- **Skills:** Microsoft Windows, Booting (BIOS), C++ (Programming Language), Communications Protocols, Computer Engineering, System Configuration, Continuous Integration, Software Debugging, Linux, Device Drivers, Linux on Embedded Systems, Middleware, Embedded Software, Ethernet, Firmware, Field-Programmable Gate Array (FPGA), FreeRTOS, Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA), Linux Kernel, Modbus, Modular Design, Profibus, Real-Time Operating Systems, Regression Testing, Software Engineering, Verification and Validation (Software), Systems Integration, VxWorks, Computer Networking Systems, Delivery Pipeline, Yocto, Information Technology, Build Tools, U-Boot, Allen-Bradley Factory Automation Equipment, Software Version Control
- **Published:** October 9, 2026
- **Apply:** https://www.disabledperson.com/jobs/75938320-staff-firmware-engineer

## About the Role

* Bachelor's degree in Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field from an accredited institution; Master's degree preferred
 * Fifteen or more years of experience in firmware or embedded software engineering with demonstrated leadership of complex projects
 * Expert-level proficiency in embedded firmware development using C and C++
 * Extensive experience with embedded Linux systems and real-time operating systems
 * Strong experience with Linux kernel configuration, building, and debugging
 * Extensive experience developing and debugging device drivers and low-level firmware
 * Experience configuring and customizing bootloaders (e.g., U-Boot, GRUB)
 * Strong understanding of firmware architecture, modular design, and system trade-offs
 * Deep experience with source version control systems and software release processes
 * Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills
 * Strong written and verbal communication skills with the ability to influence without authority

Desired Qualifications

 * Experience serving as technical lead on multi-disciplinary or cross-functional projects
 * Experience with embedded build systems and RTOS platforms such as Yocto, Zephyr, FreeRTOS, or VxWorks
 * Experience with in-circuit debugging tools and techniques
 * Experience with CI/CD build pipelines, automated regression testing, and Test-Driven Development (TDD) practices
 * Experience with Windows-based embedded or device driver development, and with ARM and x86 processor architectures
 * Strong networking and Ethernet-based communication experience, including EtherNet/IP and Industrial Edge communications (including cellular connectivity)
 * Experience with the Common Industrial Protocol (CIP) and familiarity with ODVA standards, along with other industrial communication protocols such as Modbus, PROFINET, and PROFIBUS
 * Experience implementing cryptographic algorithms and secure communication protocols, including secure boot and secure embedded systems design; knowledge of, experience with, or certification in IEC 62443
 * Experience with Allen-Bradley PLCs and the Rockwell Automation ecosystem, and/or SCADA systems
 * FPGA design or development experience
 * Experience with product certification activities (e.g., CE, UL) and in industrial automation or embedded control systems

Physical Requirements

 * Minimal travel as required to support projects and product development efforts
 * May require balancing, bending, stooping, and crouching
 * Requires good mobility and the ability to work in laboratory and manufacturing environments
 * Ability to lift a minimum of 40 lbs; occasionally up to 80 lbs

## Description

The Staff Firmware Engineer is a senior technical leader responsible for owning firmware projects or major subsystems and leading technical execution across multiple contributors. This role combines deep firmware expertise with mentorship, cross-functional collaboration, and accountability for delivering robust, scalable embedded software aligned with product and business objectives.

What You'll Do

 * Own and lead the technical execution of firmware projects or major subsystems from concept through production release
 * Define firmware architectures, design approaches, and implementation strategies
 * Coordinate and guide the work of multiple firmware engineers through technical leadership and review
 * Design, implement, and review embedded firmware using C and C++ across Linux and RTOS-based platforms
 * Lead development and integration of board support packages (BSPs), bootloaders, device drivers, and middleware
 * Lead firmware bring-up, debugging, optimization, and system integration activities
 * Establish and apply firmware verification and validation strategies to ensure quality, reliability, and regulatory compliance
 * Identify, assess, and mitigate technical risks throughout the firmware development lifecycle
 * Serve as a primary firmware technical interface with Hardware, Software, Test, Manufacturing, Supply Chain, and Project Management teams
 * Provide advanced technical support for manufacturing, field, or customer issues
 * Mentor and coach Associate, Firmware, and Senior Firmware Engineers
 * Contribute to the development and continuous improvement of firmware development standards, tools, and processes