DDR PHY Firmware Engineer

Job Title

DDR PHY Firmware Engineer

Role Summary

Develop low-level firmware and memory reference code for DDR and LPDDR PHYs to enable initialization, training, and runtime management on next-generation Intel platforms. Work at the hardware-software boundary with PHY IP, SoC architects, validation teams, and customers to ensure performance, power efficiency, and signal integrity.

Deliver firmware for simulation, emulation, pre-silicon models and post-silicon bring-up; document specifications and support customer integration and factory ramp activities.

Experience Level

Mid-level (Level - Mid-Career). Minimum ~5+ years relevant experience in firmware, validation or hardware/firmware integration.

Responsibilities

Key responsibilities include firmware development, validation, and cross-team integration:

• Write, maintain, optimize, and debug low-level firmware in C/C++ for memory initialization, configuration, and runtime management.
• Implement and validate DRAM training algorithms (e.g., write/read leveling, VREF) following JEDEC guidance.
• Execute and test firmware on architectural models, FPGA/emulation, RTL environments and post-silicon lab platforms.
• Diagnose and resolve hardware/firmware integration issues during post-silicon bring-up.
• Collaborate with SoC architecture, analog design, PHY IP teams, validation engineers and external partners.
• Develop automation scripts and test infrastructure (C/C++, Python) and publish validation plans and reports.
• Document memory reference code specifications and user guides for OEMs and internal teams.
• Provide technical support, training, and customer-facing troubleshooting during product ramp and factory integration.

Requirements

Must-have technical skills and constraints for initial consideration; preferred items noted where applicable.

• Minimum 5+ years of relevant industry experience in firmware, validation, or hardware/firmware development.
• Hands-on experience developing and executing test plans in a Linux/UNIX environment.
• Strong programming skills in C and/or C++; experience with Python for automation.
• Experience with firmware debug on simulation, emulation, or emulated models and on physical lab platforms.
• Familiarity with high-speed lab equipment (oscilloscopes, logic analyzers, protocol analyzers, data acquisition tools).
• Proven analytical and problem-solving skills; effective written and verbal communication in English.
• Must have unrestricted, permanent right to work in Mexico (no visa sponsorship available).
• (Preferred) Experience developing memory reference code (MRC) and debugging DDR/LPDDR interfaces; system-level validation and PHY/IP integration experience.

Education Requirements

Bachelor's degree required in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, or a related technical field. Master's degree in those fields is preferred. The posting does not list certifications or explicit equivalent-degree language.

About the Company

Company: Intel Corporation

Headquarters: Santa Clara, California, USA

Intel Corporation is a leading multinational technology company known for its innovative semiconductor solutions, including microprocessors, artificial intelligence accelerators, and memory products. Headquartered in the United States, Intel focuses on cutting-edge technology and a collaborative working environment, driving advancements in semiconductor manufacturing to meet global demands. The company emphasizes professional development and aims to shape the future of technology through groundbreaking designs.