Principal Embedded Software Engineer (Ethernet Retimers)

RequirementsWe're looking for someone who thrives wearing multiple hats and is energized by jumping into whatever needs doing. We recognize this breadth and reward it accordinglyBS/MS in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or related field10+ years of embedded C/C++ firmware development in resource-constrained environmentsDeep understanding of microcontroller architecture, memory-mapped peripherals, interrupt handling, and bare-metal firmware designExperience with Layer 1 PHY firmware, SERDES bring-up, or SDK/API development for networking devicesStrong proficiency with Linux development tools: gcc/clang, make, bash scripting, gdb, and gitExcellent verbal and written communication skills; ability to explain complex technical concepts clearlyDemonstrated problem-solving ability and systematic debugging approach on real hardwareComfort with ambiguity and a willingness to take on whatever challenges arise in a fast-moving startup environment(Desirable) Experience with PMA, FEC, or related PHY-layer subsystems beyond the PMD/SERDES(Desirable) Familiarity with NIC or switch management software, for system test purposes(Desirable) Exposure to SAI (Switch Abstraction Interface) or OpenBMC(Desirable) Experience with Python for test automation, data analysis, or general scripting(Desirable) Hands-on experience building and maintaining Jenkins CI/CD pipelines and automated test infrastructure(Desirable) Background in retimer or gearbox firmware/API, active electrical cables, or high-speed Ethernet connectivity(Desirable) Experience with lab equipment: oscilloscopes, power supplies, logic analyzers, BERT, Viavi/Lecroy/Exfo/Keysight/Tektronix or similar(Desirable) Understanding of signal integrity concepts: equalization, channel loss, jitter, eye diagrams, and link margin(Desirable) Familiarity with FPGA emulation, pre-silicon validation, or hardware simulation environments(Desirable) Experience with RTOS, device drivers, or coroutines(Desirable) Prior technical lead, mentorship, or team lead experienceWhat the job involvesOur Taurus product line includes Ethernet retimers and gearboxes deployed in active electrical cables and in-system applications, providing critical signal conditioning for high-speed connectivity in AI infrastructureThe firmware you develop will manage complex system and IP integration, SERDES configuration, link training sequences, and diagnostic capabilities for these devices deployed in data centers worldwideAs a Principal Engineer in our Signal Connectivity Engineering group, you'll contribute to firmware that directly impacts the performance and reliability of Ethernet connectivity solutions powering AI infrastructure globallyWorking closely with the SoC software, transceiver module software, and system validation teams, you'll take ownership of feature development and rollout, software integration testing, and customer debug activities. Working at the intersection of embedded systems and high-speed Ethernet connectivity, you'll collaborate closely to bring these systems to productionWe're a startup, and this role reflects that reality. You'll have responsibilities spanning firmware development, customer engagement, debug and validation support, and cross-functional coordinationDevelop and maintain embedded firmware for Ethernet retimers and gearboxes, from low-level hardware abstraction through customer-facing APIsDrive Layer 1 PHY and SERDES debug activities, including link bring-up issues, signal integrity problems, and interoperability failuresSupport complex IP integration efforts across multiple subsystems within the SoCImplement and optimize link training sequences, equalization tuning, and diagnostic featuresAssist with software quality gates and validation criteria at each development phasePartner with the software lead to drive product rollout activities from development through production deploymentSupport customer integration efforts through firmware customization, debug assistance, and technical guidanceInvestigate field-reported issues and coordinate resolution with internal teamsDevelop and maintain SDK/API interfaces that enable customer platform integrationWork extensively with digital SoC teams to understand hardware behavior, register interfaces, and IP integration requirementsCollaborate with field applications engineers to support customer bring-up and resolve deployment issuesPartner with platform applications teams to ensure firmware meets system-level requirementsWork alongside silicon and system validation teams to develop test plans, automate characterization flows, and verify firmware behavior across corner casesProvide regular project updates on progress, risks, dependencies, and technical challenges #J-18808-Ljbffr