Principal Firmware Engineer – Firmware Architecture

We are seeking a seasoned Principal Firmware Engineer to lead the architecture and development of firmware for next-generation Data Center and Enterprise SSD products. You will be part of an innovative team working on high-performance storage solutions, bridging advanced embedded systems knowledge with cutting-edge SSD controller technologies. This role emphasizes hands-on architecture, design validation, performance tuning, and collaboration across hardware and system teams.

Key Responsibilities:

• Define firmware architecture to support new customer-driven features and product initiatives.

• Conduct architectural studies and early-stage feasibility assessments for new functionalities.

• Work closely with hardware architects to optimize hardware/firmware interaction for IO performance, verifying results through simulation and modeling.

• Research, prototype, and implement advanced FTL algorithms and innovative SSD features.

• Tune firmware to maximize IOPS, minimize latency, and optimize power consumption under demanding enterprise workloads.

• Perform root-cause analysis of complex system-level issues using logic analyzers, protocol analyzers, and other debug tools.

• Maintain comprehensive documentation to ensure design traceability, reusability, and collaboration across teams.

What We Look For:

• Strong interpersonal skills with a focus on proactive communication and teamwork.

• Ability to manage multiple technical challenges simultaneously while driving initiatives forward.

• Clear and structured written and verbal communication, comfortable presenting complex topics.

Required Qualifications:

• Master’s or Ph.D. degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, or related fields.

• Minimum 10 years of experience in embedded firmware development (C/C++/Assembly), including 5+ years in SSD or storage systems.

• Deep understanding of bare-metal and lightweight RTOS environments on multi-core SoCs.

• Expertise in NAND flash technologies (SLC, TLC, QLC), Flash Translation Layer (FTL) design, and controller firmware.

• Strong analytical and debugging capabilities in complex embedded systems.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Hands-on experience with NVMe protocol and PCIe optimization for storage.

• Knowledge of data center SSD characteristics including QoS, endurance, and latency optimization.

• Familiarity with high-level system modeling (e.g., SystemC/TLM).

• Understanding of storage security standards such as TCG Opal and hardware-based encryption (e.g., AES, PQC-ready).

• Experience with ARM Cortex-A/R/M, RISC-V, or MIPS architecture development.