Firmware Validation Engineer

Job Title

Firmware Validation Engineer

Role Summary

The Firmware Validation Engineer designs and executes firmware validation for optical modules, develops automated test frameworks, and works closely with firmware, hardware, and optics teams to identify and resolve defects. The role also contributes code to the firmware codebase and influences product architecture.

Experience Level

Mid-level — 5+ years of experience in firmware validation or embedded software development.

Responsibilities

Primary responsibilities include test strategy, automation, cross-functional debugging, and firmware contributions.

• Analyze product requirements and functional specifications to design comprehensive test plans and detailed test cases for firmware validation.
• Develop and maintain Python-based automation frameworks and test-case architecture.
• Collaborate with design and firmware teams to implement bug fixes and contribute C/C++ code for optical control features.
• Lead root-cause analysis sessions across hardware, firmware, and optical domains; reproduce and document failures.
• Operate in an agile, fast-paced environment and adapt test plans to evolving hardware revisions and priorities.

Requirements

Key must-have and preferred qualifications.

• Must-have: 5+ years in firmware validation or embedded software development.
• Must-have: Advanced Python skills for automation.
• Must-have: Proficient in C/C++ for firmware development.
• Must-have: Hands-on experience with hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) testing and standard lab equipment (oscilloscopes, optical spectrum analyzers, BERTs).
• Must-have: Proven track record building automated test benches to validate hardware/firmware interactions.
• Must-have: Ability to work under pressure and adapt quickly in a fast-growth environment.
• Nice-to-have: Familiarity with silicon photonics or optical transceivers.
• Nice-to-have: Experience with STM32 microcontrollers.

Education Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering (EE) or Computer Engineering (CE).

About the Company

Company: Xscape Photonics

Headquarters: Santa Clara, California, United States

Developer of integrated photonics solutions and instrumentation, specializing in photonic circuits, control systems, and test methodologies for optical communication and sensing applications. Works on device integration, control algorithms, and validation of photonic hardware and firmware.