What are the responsibilities and job description for the Software Development Engineer, Firmware Validation position at Coherent Corp. US?
Primary Duties & Responsibilities
- Bridge the gap between hardware and software by developing a modular python framework to communicate with low-level hardware using protocol-level communication interfaces (e.g., USB, I2C, UART) which enables our software application to interact with hardware for efficient firmware validation and seamless hardware-software integration.
- Design and implement high-level software abstractions for low-level hardware communication protocols, ensuring minimal latency and preserving the performance characteristics of time-sensitive I2C transactions.
- Develop reusable test scripts and modules to validate firmware behavior, execute regression suites, support new product introduction (NPI) testing and hardware bring-up.
- Implement structured logging and reporting, generating outputs in formats like JSON, CSV, or HTML for traceability and auditability.
- Maintain high code quality, detailed documentation for Application architecture, testing procedures, validation results and reusable components for future scalability
- Integrate with databases or dashboards for test result visualization and analytics
Education & Experience
- Bachelor’s degree in computer engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science or a related field. Master’s degree preferred but not required.
- Preferred 1-2 years of industry experience.
Skills
- Strong programming skills in Python, C and C# with experience in building modular, scalable codebases
- Deep understanding of hardware communication protocols: I2C, SPI, UART, USB, MDIO, etc.
- Experience developing test frameworks or automation tools for firmware or embedded hardware.
- Familiarity with tools like smbus2, pyserial, python-periphery, pyvisa, or similar.
- Ability to debug using lab tools (oscilloscopes, logic analyzers, power meters).
- Comfortable working in a Linux environment, with git, scripting, and CI fundamentals.
- Strong verbal and written communication skills for documentation and cross-functional work.
- Prior experience in optical transceiver validation, CMIS protocol, or related hardware.
- Exposure to IronPython or C#/Python interop in WPF environments, experience integrating with test databases or visualization tools.
Working Conditions
- This position is on-site full time.
- May require occasional off-site meetings or travel
- Regular use of a computer and other office equipment is necessary
- Interaction with team members and external contacts is a regular part of the job
- May require occasional overtime and flexibility in work hours to accommodate the executive’s needs
Physical Requirements
- Sitting for extended periods while working on a computer or conducting meetings.
- Use of hands and fingers for typing, writing, and handling documents.
- Occasional lifting of objects or materials up to 20 pounds for administrative tasks.
- Ability to communicate verbally and in writing.
- Mobility within the office environment to attend meetings or interact with colleagues
Safety Requirements
All employees are required to follow the site EHS procedures and Coherent Corp. Corporate EHS standards.
Quality and Environmental Responsibilities
Depending on location, this position may be responsible for the execution and maintenance of the ISO 9000, 9001, 14001 and/or other applicable standards that may apply to the relevant roles and responsibilities within the Quality Management System and Environmental Management System.
Culture Commitment
Ensure adherence to company’s values (ICARE) in all aspects of your position at Coherent Corp.:
Integrity – Create an Environment of Trust
Collaboration – Innovate Through the Sharing of Ideas
Accountability – Own the Process and the Outcome
Respect – Recognize the Value in Everyone
Enthusiasm – Find a Sense of Purpose in Work
Coherent Corp. is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religion, national origin, disability, protected Veteran status, age, or any other characteristic protected by law.
If you need assistance or an accommodation due to a disability, you may contact us at talentacquisition@coherent.com.