Firmware Engineer Tech Lead

Role Overview

The mission of this role is to architect and develop firmware and microcontroller subsystems for Astera Labs’ SoC and systems products. As a Firmware Engineer Tech Lead you are responsible for implementing the major differentiating features of Astera Labs’ products. As such, firmware is considered equally important to the hardware, and the firmware team is often customer-facing accordingly to ensure the needs of the customer are fully comprehended. 

Basic Qualifications 

• Strong academic and technical background in electrical engineering. At a minimum, a Bachelor’s in EE or Computer Science is required, and a Master’s is preferred. 

• Minimum 5 years’ experience supporting or developing complex SoC/silicon products for Server, Storage, and/or Networking applications. 

• Experience developing firmware to execute in on-chip microcontrollers as well as C-language software development kits (SDKs) to execute on system management controllers (e.g. BMC). 

• Experience working with logic designers to architect and verify HW-SW interfaces on complex SoCs. 

• Professional attitude with the ability to prioritize a dynamic list of multiple tasks, to plan and prepare for customer meetings in advance, and to work with minimal guidance and supervision. 

• Entrepreneurial, open-minded behavior and can-do attitude. Think and act fast with the customer in mind! 

• Authorized to work in the US and start immediately. 

Required Experience 

• Experience working on PCIe-Express (Gen-3 and above) protocol, including working with analyzers and exercisers to debug protocol issues. 

• High level of proficiency in C (preferred) or C++, including development of C-based SDKs. 

• High level of proficiency in Python for automating pre-processors/post-processors and FW QC. 

• Working knowledge of software/firmware build environments, gcc/Make, Doxygen, and GitHub.  

• Familiarity with SoC interfaces to common IP blocks such as PCIe Controllers, DDR Controllers, NVME Controllers, AMBA/AHB interfaces, on-chip memory interfaces, and other similar interfaces. 

Preferred Experience 

• Experience with PAM4 SerDes with working knowledge of Tx/Rx equalization, adaptation, CDR and SerDes link budgets. 

• Hands-on experience with PCIe devices in Server, Storage, and/or Networking equipment.  

• Experience developing embedded firmware for PCIe or Ethernet Switch products. 

Base salary range is $160,000 to $200,000 depending on experience, level, and business need. This role is eligible for discretionary bonus, incentives and benefits.