Software Firmware Test & Sustaining Engineer

The Software/Firmware Test & Sustaining Engineer works alongside the firmware and software team to continuously test, validate, and strengthen the embedded firmware and supporting applications used in ZincFive’s NiZn based products. This role resides inside the software team and focuses on building and running robust test suites, reproducing and triaging issues, and driving high product quality across the full lifecycle. In addition to test and validation, this engineer will support sustaining activities, including assisting with bug fixing, production support, and training internal teams on new tools and features. This role must be worked onsite at ZincFive headquarters in Tualatin, Oregon and reports to the Lead Software Engineer.

Software/Firmware Test & Sustaining Engineer Job Duties:

• Develop, maintain, and execute manual and automated test plans for embedded firmware and supporting software tools
• Build and extend regression test suites for firmware releases, including hardware-in-the-loop and system-level tests
• Set up and maintain test fixtures and lab equipment (battery cabinets, power supplies, load banks, instrumentation, etc.) for repeatable testing
• Log, triage, and track issues found during testing; work with developers to reproduce and isolate root causes
• Document test results and provide clear feedback into PLM gate reviews and release decisions
• Assist with bug fixes and smaller feature updates in firmware and supporting software (e.g., tools, scripts, internal apps)
• Help reproduce production and field issues in the lab and verify fixes before deployment
• Support production, service, and field teams by:
  • Creating and updating diagnostic procedures
  • Providing training on tools and test processes
  • Supporting investigations during RCCA activities
• Develop or enhance test automation tooling (e.g., Python scripts, test harnesses, CI integration) to improve coverage and repeatability
• Contribute to improving test documentation, including test cases, procedures, and lab setup guides
• Collaborate with firmware, software, and quality teams to strengthen release criteria, regression strategies, and test coverage over time
• Participate in and contribute to cross-functional reviews (design reviews, gate reviews, post-mortems) from the testing and sustaining perspective

Job Requirements: 

• 1 years of experience in one or more of:
  1. Embedded firmware development and testing
  2. Software/firmware QA or validation engineering
  3. Sustaining engineering for embedded products
• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or related field; or equivalent practical experience
• Hands-on experience with:
  1. C and/or C on embedded processors or microcontrollers
  2. Python for tooling or test automation
• Familiarity with RTOS-based systems and embedded development workflows
• Experience interpreting schematics, operating lab instruments and logic analyzers
• Familiarity with software architecture, patterns, and coding guidelines for best practices
• Comfortable working with schematics, lab equipment, and instrumentation (oscilloscopes, multimeters, logic analyzers, etc.)
• Knowledge of commonly used embedded communication protocols: I2C, SPI, UART, CANBus, Modbus (TCP/IP, RTU)
• Experience with version control (Git) and modern development workflows (code reviews, branches, CI)
• Technical documentation skills
• Demonstrates effective communication and organization skills
• Experience with Jira or other issue tracking tools

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience testing or developing firmware on SoC/ARM/Microchip platforms.
• Experience with hardware-in-the-loop, integration-level testing, system-level testing, or test automation frameworks.
• Prior exposure to PLM/gated development processes and formal test documentation.
• Experience with power electronics, battery systems, or UPS/BMS is a plus.
• Familiarity with React/Node.js or other web technologies is a bonus, particularly for internal tools or dashboards.
• Strong technical writing skills for test procedures, reports, and training materials.
• Demonstrated ability to work cross-functionally with engineering, production, quality, and field/service teams.

Key Competencies:

• Attention to detail
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Problem solving and analytical skills
• The ability to prioritize and handle multiple tasks
• The ability to work independently and in a team environment

Physical Requirements and Working Conditions: 

• Work involves sitting, repetitive motion, occasional walking, lifting up to 15 pounds, and climbing ladders
• Normal office environment
• Ability to wear Personal Protective Equipment when required
• Normal office and manufacturing environments

Salary offers will depend on factors that include the location you work from, your level, education, training, specific skills, years of experience and comparison to other employees already in this role.

In addition, the successful candidate for this position will become eligible for a comprehensive set of outstanding benefits, including medical, dental, vision, life insurance, 401k, paid sick time, paid time off for vacation, paid holidays, paid community service days, professional/personal learning program, and applicable state/federal paid family leave.

ZincFive is committed to employing a diverse workforce. As an Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action Employer all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status. We maintain a safe workplace and perform pre-employment testing. ZincFive is a participant in E-Verify and receives employment authorization of new hires through Social Security and the Department of Homeland Security databases.