Staff Firmware Engineer

About SoftingSofting is an industrial automation company based in Knoxville, TN, focused on communication gateways, vibration analysis, embedded edge compute, and I/O products. Our firmware team supports embedded, industrial-grade products where reliability, determinism, and protocol compliance are non-negotiable and we're actively growing the team to support an expanding product roadmap.

All candidates should make sure to read the following job description and information carefully before applying.
We are seeking a Staff Firmware Engineer to lead the development of advanced embedded firmware for industrial networking and automation products. This senior-level role combines deep hands-on firmware development with technical leadership and architecture ownership across complex embedded systems.
Job PurposeThe Staff Firmware Engineer is a senior technical leader responsible for owning firmware projects or major subsystems and leading technical execution across multiple contributors. This role combines deep firmware expertise with mentorship, cross-functional collaboration, and accountability for delivering robust, scalable embedded software aligned with product and business objectives.
What You'll DoOwn and lead the technical execution of firmware projects or major subsystems from concept through production releaseDefine firmware architectures, design approaches, and implementation strategiesCoordinate and guide the work of multiple firmware engineers through technical leadership and reviewDesign, implement, and review embedded firmware using C and C++ across Linux and RTOS-based platformsLead development and integration of board support packages (BSPs), bootloaders, device drivers, and middlewareLead firmware bring-up, debugging, optimization, and system integration activitiesEstablish and apply firmware verification and validation strategies to ensure quality, reliability, and regulatory complianceIdentify, assess, and mitigate technical risks throughout the firmware development lifecycleServe as a primary firmware technical interface with Hardware, Software, Test, Manufacturing, Supply Chain, and Project Management teamsProvide advanced technical support for manufacturing, field, or customer issuesMentor and coach Associate, Firmware, and Senior Firmware EngineersContribute to the development and continuous improvement of firmware development standards, tools, and processes
Required QualificationsBachelor's degree in Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field from an accredited institution; Master's degree preferredFifteen or more years of experience in firmware or embedded software engineering with demonstrated leadership of complex projectsExpert-level proficiency in embedded firmware development using C and C++Extensive experience with embedded Linux systems and real-time operating systemsStrong experience with Linux kernel configuration, building, and debuggingExtensive experience developing and debugging device drivers and low-level firmwareExperience configuring and customizing bootloaders (e.g., U-Boot, GRUB)Strong understanding of firmware architecture, modular design, and system trade-offsDeep experience with source version control systems and software release processesExcellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skillsStrong written and verbal communication skills with the ability to influence without authority
Desired QualificationsExperience serving as technical lead on multi-disciplinary or cross-functional projectsExperience with embedded build systems and RTOS platforms such as Yocto, Zephyr, FreeRTOS, or VxWorksExperience with in-circuit debugging tools and techniquesExperience with CI/CD build pipelines, automated regression testing, and Test-Driven Development (TDD) practicesExperience with Windows-based embedded or device driver development, and with ARM and x86 processor architecturesStrong networking and Ethernet-based communication experience, xzbcwsv including EtherNet/IP and Industrial Edge communications (including cellular connectivity)Experience with the Common Industrial Protocol (CIP) and familiarity with ODVA standards, along with other industrial communication protocols such as Modbus, PROFINET, and PROFIBUSExperience implementing cryptographic algorithms and secure communication protocols, including secure boot and secure embedded systems design; knowledge of, experience with, or certification in IEC 62443Experience with Allen-Bradley PLCs and the Rockwell Automation ecosystem, and/or SCADA systemsFPGA design or development experienceExperience with product certification activities (e.g., CE, UL) and in industrial automation or embedded control systems
Physical RequirementsMinimal travel as required to support projects and product development effortsMay require balancing, bending, stooping, and crouchingRequires good mobility and the ability to work in laboratory and manufacturing environmentsAbility to lift a minimum of 40 lbs; occasionally up to 80 lbs
Softing, Inc. provides equal employment opportunities to all qualified individuals without regard to race, creed, color, religion, national origin, age, sex, marital status, sexual orientation, or non-disqualifying physical or mental handicap or disability.