FPGA Configuration and Security (Firmware) Validation Engineer

Job Title

FPGA Configuration and Security (Firmware) Validation Engineer

Role Summary

Join the Altera Software and IP Solutions (SIPS) team to validate firmware, drivers, platform software, and system-level functionality for FPGA-based products. The role focuses on verifying interoperability between hardware, firmware, OS, drivers, and applications across pre-silicon and post-silicon environments.

Work with cross-functional firmware, hardware, software, and validation teams to develop and execute tests that improve product reliability and customer experience.

Experience Level

Mid-level: 3–5 years of experience in software, firmware, embedded systems, platform validation, or test development is expected.

Responsibilities

Execute and extend validation activities for firmware, platform software, drivers, and system-level workflows.

• Execute validation plans and test cases for firmware, platform, integration, and system functionality.
• Review product requirements and specifications to derive test coverage and expected behavior.
• Develop and maintain test procedures, documentation, and validation artifacts.
• Design and implement automated test cases and regression suites (under guidance from senior engineers).
• Perform functional, integration, regression, stress, negative, and user-acceptance testing.
• Validate platform and driver behavior across Windows and Linux, including installation, upgrade, and compatibility scenarios.
• Reproduce, document, and analyze failures; collect logs and debug data to support root-cause investigations.
• Develop and maintain test automation scripts (Python or similar) and support test infrastructure and lab equipment.
• Assist with performance, reliability, stability testing, defect tracking, and verification of fixes.
• Validate real-world customer workflows and platform-level interactions between drivers, firmware, and applications.

Requirements

Must-have technical skills and experience required to perform the role.

• 3–5 years of hands-on experience in firmware, embedded software, platform validation, or test development.
• Fundamental understanding of embedded systems, microcontrollers, SoCs, and firmware concepts.
• Proficiency with Python scripting and working knowledge of C or C++.
• Familiarity with Windows and Linux operating systems and driver concepts.
• Experience with version control (Git) and issue tracking tools (Jira).
• Strong analytical, debugging, and problem-solving skills.
• Good written and verbal communication skills and ability to work in cross-functional teams.

Nice-to-have / advantageous skills:

• Experience with FPGA-based systems and FPGA development tools.
• Platform, driver, or OS-level validation and Windows Device Manager / driver installation experience.
• Basic knowledge of PCIe, USB, Ethernet, or other hardware interfaces.
• Experience developing automated test frameworks and Linux kernel/driver testing.
• Familiarity with security concepts such as secure boot, authentication, or cryptography.
• Experience using logic analyzers, protocol analyzers, or hardware debuggers.

Education Requirements

Bachelor's or Master's degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, or a related technical field.

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.