• Firmware Test Engineer

    Actalent (Poway, CA)


    Job Title: Firmware Test Engineer

    Job Description

    As a Firmware Test Engineer, you will play a crucial role in the integration and testing of software and firmware with hardware in fully integrated systems. You will support the design and development of prototype systems through various stages including design, integration, and testing. Your adaptable support will be crucial to the systems engineering organization, and you will have opportunities to contribute to internal development and new business initiatives.

    Responsibilities

    + Perform integration and testing of software and firmware with hardware.

    + Support the design and development of prototype systems.

    + Provide adaptable support to systems engineering, including direct program systems engineering support and proposal development.

    + Develop plans and procedures for integration and test.

    + Collaborate with program and engineering staff on design, integration, and test matters.

    + Support program design and readiness reviews.

    + Operate engineering systems and document any problems.

    + Devise new approaches to resolve complex engineering problems.

    + Troubleshoot conflicting assembly and integration issues.

    + Provide documentation and make technical presentations as required.

    + Interface with customers during design development and integration phases.

    + Lead a team of moderately experienced professional staff.

    + Maintain strict confidentiality of sensitive information.

    + Observe all applicable laws and regulations.

    + Work in a safe manner according to established procedures.

    Essential Skills

    + Experience with software testing, RTOS, and bare-metal systems.

    + Proficiency in communication protocols such as I2C, SPI, GigE, TCP/IP, and UDP.

    + Experience in developing test bench beds using C++ and Python.

    + Bachelor's degree in engineering or a related technical discipline, or equivalent engineering experience.

    + Six or more years of experience with a bachelor's degree, four or more years with a master's degree, or two or more years with a PhD.

    + Experience with assembly, integration, and test for space payloads.

    + Strong experience in software or firmware development and integration.

     

    Additional Skills & Qualifications

     

    + Proficiency in Python, C, C++, and/or MATLAB.

    + Experience with Linux-based systems.

    + Understanding of integration techniques and considerations.

    + Strong communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills.

    + Project leadership experience is beneficial.

    + Customer-focused with innovative design solutions.

    + Familiarity with digital engineering and toolsets including SysML.

    Work Environment

    This role is predominantly lab-based, with approximately 80% of the time spent in the lab assisting with integration and testing to identify bugs. The environment is highly Agile, with a focus on troubleshooting and communication. The role involves collaboration with the development team and participation in assembly integration meetings. Experience with EO/IR firmware, hardware such as lasers, optical benches, and gimbal controllers is ideal. The remaining time will be dedicated to meetings and communicating findings.

     

    Job Type & Location

     

    This is a Permanent position based out of Poway, CA.

    Pay and Benefits

    The pay range for this position is $130000.00 - $170000.00/yr.

     

    competitive compensation, bonus, medical benefits, 401K etc

     

    Workplace Type

     

    This is a fully onsite position in Poway,CA.

     

    Application Deadline

     

    This position is anticipated to close on Jan 28, 2026.

    About Actalent

    Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 30,000 consultants and more than 4,500 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500.

     

    The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

     

    If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing due to a disability, please email [email protected] (%[email protected]) for other accommodation options.