Firmware Tech Lead (Optical Modules)

TL;DR

Firmware Tech Lead (Optical Modules): Architecting and developing embedded firmware for advanced optical modules and engines with an accent on silicon bring-up, CMIS implementation, and photonic IC control. Focus on defining control architecture, driving production readiness, and mentoring engineering teams across complex hardware programs.

Location: Must be based in San Jose, CA

Salary: $120,000–$350,000

Company

hirify.global is a specialized recruitment firm focused on high-tech engineering and leadership roles.

What you will do

• Architect, develop, and release embedded firmware for QSFP-DD, OSFP, and optical engine platforms.
• Define digital requirements for custom optical control ASICs, including boot, telemetry, and diagnostics.
• Implement CMIS-compliant firmware for module control, state management, and host interfaces.
• Lead firmware and digital bring-up for new optical modules and control ASIC platforms.
• Develop firmware for manufacturing, test, calibration, and production enablement flows.
• Mentor engineers through architecture reviews, design guidance, and technical leadership.

Requirements

• Must be based in San Jose, CA
• 7+ years of relevant experience for Senior Principal scope or 10+ years for Distinguished scope.
• Deep experience developing firmware for optical modules (QSFP-DD, OSFP, or optical engines).
• Strong proficiency in embedded C/C++ and low-level hardware/firmware debug.
• Hands-on experience with ARM or RISC-V embedded architectures.
• Proven ability to define firmware architecture, including MCU selection and boot strategy.

Nice to have

• Experience with root of trust, secure boot, and secure firmware upgrade mechanisms.
• Familiarity with optical transceiver standards and datacenter optical deployment requirements.
• Experience supporting product qualification, reliability investigations, and failure analysis.

Culture & Benefits

• Opportunity to lead end-to-end architecture for next-generation optical platforms.
• Collaborative environment working across DSP, ASIC, and manufacturing teams.
• High-impact role influencing production readiness and system reliability.