Sr. Firmware Engineer

Description
Synaptics is leading the charge in AI at the Edge, bringing AI closer to end users and transforming how we engage with intelligent connected devices, whether at home, at work, or on the move. As the go-to partner for the world's most forward-thinking product innovators, Synaptics powers the future with its cutting-edge Synaptics Astra AI-Native embedded compute, Veros wireless connectivity, and multimodal sensing solutions. We're making the digital experience smarter, faster, more intuitive, secure, and seamless. From touch, display, and biometrics to AI-driven wireless connectivity, video, vision, audio, speech, and security processing, Synaptics is the force behind the next generation of technology enhancing how we live, work, and play.

Overview
Synaptics is seeking a highly skilled and motivated Sr. Firmware Engineer to join our dynamic team. The ideal candidate will play a key role in the development and maintenance of embedded firmware for system-on-a-chip (SoC) characterization and test. The candidate will work closely with cross-functional teams to deliver robust and innovative solutions. This role involves the design, development, testing, and troubleshooting of firmware for various touch, display, fingerprint and bridge solutions across multiple product lines. This position reports to the Director, ASIC Applications Engineering in the Intelligent Sensing Division.

Responsibilities & Competencies
Job Duties

• Create innovative design solutions for characterization of microcontroller-based mixed signal ASICs
• Develop high fidelity, high performance and time/memory efficient firmware which executes on commercial and proprietary processor cores while interfacing with automated test equipment (ATE)
• Write and maintain efficient, scalable, and robust firmware code in C/C++, ensuring alignment with technical and project requirements;-own the full code life-cycle from ATE integration, product support/debug, through decommissioning
• Advise and assist in the analysis of characterization results. Define test limits and metrics for success
• Develop and test code in Python or C/C++ on bench-top systems to validate firmware functionality and performance
• Collaborate with global, cross-functional teams, including ASIC designers, ATE and production engineers, system architects, hardware, software, and validation teams to ensure feature development and implementation meet functional and performance standards
• Diagnose, troubleshoot, and resolve complex issues related to functional and performance requirements. Use debugging tools such as oscilloscopes, logic analyzers, and other diagnostic instruments to identify and resolve problems.

Competencies

• Strong understanding of embedded software development processes, including version control systems (e.g., Git) and build systems
• Strong C/C++ embedded programming skills; assembly coding experience is expected
• Familiar with QA validation methodologies and able to perform QA testing independently
• Proactive, self-starter, able to work independently in a fast-paced environment
• Well organized with strong attention to detail; proactively ensures work is accurate
• Positive attitude and work ethic; unafraid to ask questions and explore new ideas
• Resourceful and able to solve complex problems through practical use of technology and a solid understanding of product architecture
• Analytical and able to make informed decisions based on experience and data
• Strong verbal and written communication skills, in English
• Strong team player with the ability to work collaboratively within a diverse cross-functional team

Qualifications (Requirements)

• Bachelor's degree (Master's or higher preferred) in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering or related field or equivalent
• 5+ years of experience in firmware development for embedded systems including code development in C/C++
• Experience with microcontrollers, microprocessors, and system-on-chip (SoC) architectures
• Experience with real-time operating systems (RTOS)
• Proficient in hardware interfaces and communication protocols (e.g. I2C, I3C, SPI, UART, USB)
• Hands-on experience with debugging and diagnostic tools such as JTAG, oscilloscopes, and logic analyzers
• Minimal travel up to 10%

*Belief in Diversity

Synaptics is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to workforce diversity. Qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, color, age, religion, protected veteran or disability status, or genetic information.*