Firmware Test Lead – Hardware Systems (NPI)

Summary:

Are you ready to lead in a fast-paced, innovation-driven environment? We’re seeking a Test Design Lead with strong firmware experience to join a top consumer electronics company in Cupertino, CA. This is your opportunity to work at the intersection of hardware, firmware, and manufacturing, ensuring robust test readiness for cutting-edge consumer products.

As a Test Lead, you’ll collaborate with a team of experienced Technical Program Managers (TPMs), driving system-level test strategies with a particular focus on firmware development, validation, and integration across New Product Introduction (NPI) cycles.

Key Responsibilities:

• Drive manufacturing test readiness, with a focus on firmware-driven test systems from SMT through final assembly across all NPI phases

• Lead dry runs and test execution planning to validate firmware functionality and system integration before production builds

• Troubleshoot firmware and hardware-related issues during build processes, identifying root causes and coordinating timely resolutions

• Partner with cross-functional engineering teams to validate firmware updates, ensure test coverage, and track regressions across builds

• Define and implement firmware test strategies, aligning with broader test readiness plans and product timelines

• Manage risk assessments related to firmware behavior during test processes and production validation

• Monitor and report on test progress, firmware maturity, and issue status throughout the build cycle

• Ensure manufacturing test coverage meets firmware quality standards and reliability metrics

• Propose continuous improvements to firmware testing methodology and validation workflows

Qualifications:

• Strong background in firmware development, testing, or technical program management with a firmware focus

• Understanding of hardware-software system architecture, with emphasis on firmware and embedded systems

• Experience working with firmware validation tools, debugging methods, and integration across manufacturing workflows

• Knowledge of NPI processes, especially as they relate to firmware validation during early build stages

• Strong problem-solving and communication skills in fast-paced engineering environments

• Consumer electronics or hardware device experience preferred

• Engineering degree in EE, CE, CS, or related technical field preferred

Location: Cupertino, CA (Hybrid: Onsite Tuesday–Thursday)

Duration: 12–36 months

Pay Rate Range: $70–$100/hr (DOE)