Firmware Architect

Job Title

Firmware Architect

Role Summary

Define and drive firmware architecture for SoC boot, reset sequences, and system initialization. Ensure robust boot flows, hardware/firmware integration, and compliance with functional safety and security requirements.

Work on the AECG Embedded Team in a cross-functional environment to integrate firmware with processor subsystems, interconnects, and system-level components. Location: San Jose, CA (hybrid).

Experience Level

Senior. No explicit years-of-experience requirement provided.

Responsibilities

Primary responsibilities focus on architecture, specification, and verification of SoC boot and firmware subsystems.

• Define and develop firmware architecture for SoC boot flows, reset sequences, and system initialization.
• Specify requirements and produce detailed documentation for boot and firmware interfaces.
• Collaborate with SoC architects, design, verification, and software teams to ensure cohesive hardware/firmware integration and system-level validation.
• Drive implementation of functional safety–compliant firmware and related software.
• Analyze trade-offs among performance, power, reliability, and safety for firmware design decisions.
• Influence security, safety, and lifecycle management strategies across firmware domains.
• Partner on verification and validation plans to ensure functional correctness of boot and initialization flows.

Requirements

Core technical skills and experience required or preferred for success in this role.

• Must-have: Proven track record delivering SoC architecture and firmware solutions for robust boot and firmware functionality; experience defining firmware interfaces and requirements.
• Must-have: Deep expertise in low-level firmware development and hardware abstraction (drivers, initialization code) and strong collaboration skills across hardware and software teams.
• Nice-to-have: Experience with ARM and x86 SoC boot flows, secure boot, and power-on initialization.
• Nice-to-have: Familiarity with SoC architecture elements such as processor subsystems, interconnect protocols (e.g., AXI), and memory systems.
• Nice-to-have: Knowledge of low-power design techniques, reset flows, and power management strategies.
• Nice-to-have: Experience with functional safety processes and standards and tools for safety compliance in firmware and software (e.g., ISO 26262).
• Nice-to-have: Proficiency in modeling and automation using C, Python, or similar languages; strong understanding of embedded security and reliability strategies.

Education Requirements

BS, MS, or PhD in Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related field.

About the Company

Company: Advanced Micro Devices

Headquarters: Sunnyvale, California, USA

Advanced Micro Devices, or AMD, is a global semiconductor company that designs and manufactures microprocessors, graphics processors, and related technologies for a variety of computing devices. Known for pushing the boundaries of innovation, AMD's mission is to deliver high-performance computing solutions for AI, data centers, gaming, and embedded applications. They foster a collaborative, inclusive culture focused on creativity and problem-solving, aiming to drive progress and excellence in technology.