> Markdown version of [/jobs/ext/4445930-principal-firmware-engineer](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/jobs/ext/4445930-principal-firmware-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). --- # Principal Firmware Engineer - **Company:** MKS Instruments Inc - **Location:** Andover, MA, United States - **Experience:** Expert - **Salary:** $126,200.0 - $210,350.0 - **Contract:** Permanent contract - **Skills:** Automation of Tests, Communications Protocols, Computer Engineering, Software Debugging, DeviceNet, Embedded Software, Emulators, EtherCAT, Firmware, PID Controllers, Performance Tuning, Software Engineering, Verification and Validation (Software), Universal Asynchronous Receiver/Transmitter, Serial Peripheral Interface, Software Coding, Software Version Control - **Published:** October 11, 2026 - **Apply:** https://www.juju.com/job/1_mksinst-R19990 ## About the Role Skills You Bring: + Education: BS, MS or PhD in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or a related field. + 10+ years of experience in embedded systems and firmware development, including control algorithms. + Demonstrated technical leadership with strong communication and cross-functional collaboration skills. + Strong proficiency in C and C++ programming for real-time embedded systems. + Expertise in debugging and system bring-up, using tools such as emulators, oscilloscopes, and communication bus analyzers. + Experience with version control systems and structured software release processes Preferred Qualifications (Nice to Have): + Experience with industrial fieldbus protocols such as EtherCAT, DeviceNet, or similar. + Experience with motion control systems, including stepper motors and BLDC motors. + Strong understanding of feedback control theory, including PID control and tuning. + Experience with SPI, I2C, UART and other communication protocols. ## Description You Will Make an Impact By: + Leading the architecture, design, implementation, verification and validation of embedded firmware for complex control systems. + Collaborating closely with cross-functional team to understand customer requirements and deliver innovative solutions that enhance product performance and customer success. + Establishing and driving firmware development best practices, including coding standards, design reviews, and automated test frameworks. + Providing technical leadership, mentorship and guidance to firmware engineers across the organization. + Driving continuous improvement in firmware quality, reliability, and development efficiency.