Principal Engineer - Validation

Job Title

Principal Engineer - Validation

Role Summary

Define and execute validation strategy, test plans and test content for Micron SSD firmware across NVMe/PCIe-based systems. Work with product teams and hyperscale/datacenter customers to validate functional, system-level and customer-quality aspects, accelerate cycle time, and improve product quality throughout the lifecycle.

Experience Level

Senior — typically 8–14 years in embedded firmware. 4+ years in SSD product validation is a strong plus.

Responsibilities

Key responsibilities include:

• Define test plans, create test cases and develop test scripts to validate SSD firmware for Micron NAND-based systems and solutions.
• Validate functional, system-level and customer-quality scenarios aligned to NVMe/PCIe and customer specifications.
• Develop, integrate and maintain automated test environments and drive execution of validation plans.
• Debug protocol and media issues using protocol analyzers and system-level debug tools.
• Review, track and document test results and reported sightings; drive issues to closure with cross-functional teams.
• Communicate program status, risks and mitigation strategies to stakeholders.
• Collaborate with customers during product development and qualification to meet customer quality goals.
• Apply auto code generators and AI agents to automate and scale validation tasks.

Requirements

Core technical must-haves and preferred skills:

• Must-have: Strong understanding of NVMe and PCIe specifications and system storage stack (CPU, memory, PCIe, drivers, OS, firmware).
• Must-have: Hands-on experience debugging NVMe/SAS protocol issues with protocol analyzers (e.g., LeCroy / JDSU) and system debug tools.
• Must-have: Proficient in Python and comfortable debugging on both Linux and Windows platforms.
• Must-have: Experience defining and implementing software/firmware/device validation test plans and integrating tests into automated environments.
• Must-have: Strong analytical, problem-solving, project management and communication skills; ability to work independently and with teams.
• Nice-to-have: Prior use of load and media tools such as Medusa, SanBlaze and Oakgate.
• Nice-to-have: Experience with UNH and PCIe-CV test suites and prior SSD firmware validation projects.
• Nice-to-have: Experience working with auto code generators and AI agents to support validation (2+ years preferred).

Education Requirements

Bachelor's or Master's degree in Computer Science or Engineering is required/preferred (Computer Science, Computer Engineering or related engineering disciplines). No certifications were specified. Equivalent practical experience is not listed explicitly.

About the Company

Company: Micron Technology

Headquarters: Boise, Idaho, USA

Micron Technology is a global leader in memory and storage solutions, dedicated to transforming how the world uses information. The company offers a diverse portfolio of high-performance DRAM, NAND, and NOR memory products under the Micron and Crucial brands. With a commitment to customer focus and technological innovation, Micron drives advancements in artificial intelligence, 5G, and other data-centric applications, empowering users to learn, communicate, and progress.