Embedded Firmware Engineer - Image Signal Processor (ISP)

Apple Inc.; Cupertino (CA); On-site; USD 147,400 - 272,100; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Comprehensive medical and dental coverage

Retirement benefits

Discounted products and free services

Tuition reimbursement

Stock options

Job summary

A leading technology company is seeking an Embedded Firmware Engineer to develop sophisticated image processing firmware. This role involves collaboration on hardware validation and software integration within a fast-paced environment. The ideal candidate should have a degree in Computer Science or Electrical Engineering, strong skills in C and C++, and extensive experience in embedded systems. The base pay range is between $147,400 and $272,100, with opportunities for bonuses and comprehensive benefits.

Qualifications

• 3+ years of experience developing multi-threaded software within embedded RTOS environments.
• Experience with camera pipelines or video processing systems preferred.

Responsibilities

• Develop low-level ISP firmware for image processing pipelines.
• Drive ISP hardware validation and software stack integration.
• Identify and resolve performance challenges including power consumption.

Skills

C programming

C++ programming

Embedded RTOS

Firmware performance tuning

Debugging systems

Communication skills

Education

BS or MS in Computer Science or Electrical Engineering

Tools

Emulators

FPGA prototypes

Job description

Embedded Firmware Engineer - Image Signal Processor (ISP)

Cupertino, California, United States • Hardware

Apple's ISP team is seeking an exceptional Embedded Firmware Engineer to drive pioneering camera technologies for Apple products. You will work on core camera and ISP technologies, including Apple's custom image signal processing pipeline and hardware components. In this role, you will help define how Apple develops, tests, and manufactures its products. Our team fosters an environment of product innovation, rapid iteration, and collaboration across multiple functions while providing meaningful autonomy to deliver impactful work.

Description

This is a highly cross‑functional product development role where you will partner closely with silicon design, silicon validation, and machine learning algorithm teams. The work spans the full product lifecycle from pre‑silicon emulation through silicon bring‑up and production. The environment is fast‑paced and multifaceted, requiring initiative, technical curiosity, and comfort navigating ambiguity.

Responsibilities

• Develop low‑level ISP firmware for sophisticated image processing pipelines running on Apple's latest system‑on‑chip designs.
• Drive ISP hardware validation, feature bring‑up, and camera software stack integration on emulators during pre‑silicon development and on silicon during initial bring‑up.
• Identify and resolve system performance challenges including power consumption, memory utilization, latency, and timing jitter.
• Collaborate with silicon designers to debug hardware‑firmware interactions and contribute to architecture decisions that shape future camera capabilities.

Minimum Qualifications

• BS or MS in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or a related field.
• 3+ years of experience developing multi‑threaded software within embedded RTOS environments.
• Strong proficiency in C and C++.

Preferred Qualifications

• 5+ years of embedded firmware development experience.
• Experience with camera pipelines, image signal processors, or video processing systems.
• Track record of bringing up firmware on new silicon or hardware platforms.
• Familiarity with pre‑silicon development environments including emulators and FPGA prototypes.
• Experience with firmware performance tuning, memory optimization, and power management.
• Proficiency with AI‑assisted development tools and workflows.
• Understanding of low‑level hardware interfaces and register‑level programming.
• Ability to debug complex systems using hardware and software tools.
• Strong communication skills and ability to work effectively across teams.

Compensation and Benefits

Base pay is one part of our total compensation package and is determined within a range. The base pay range for this role is between $147,400 and $272,100, and your base pay will depend on your skills, qualifications, experience, and location.

Apple employees also have the opportunity to become an Apple shareholder through participation in Apple’s discretionary employee stock programs. Apple employees are eligible for discretionary restricted stock unit awards, and can purchase Apple stock at a discount if voluntarily participating in Apple’s Employee Stock Purchase Plan.

You’ll also receive benefits including comprehensive medical and dental coverage, retirement benefits, a range of discounted products and free services, and reimbursement for certain educational expenses—including tuition. Additionally, this role might be eligible for discretionary bonuses or commission payments as well as relocation. Learn more about Apple Benefits.

Note: Apple benefit, compensation and employee stock programs are subject to eligibility requirements and other terms of the applicable plan or program.

Equal Opportunity

Apple is an equal opportunity employer that is committed to inclusion and diversity. We seek to promote equal opportunity for all applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, Veteran status, or other legally protected characteristics. Learn more about your EEO rights as an applicant.

Apple accepts applications to this posting on an ongoing basis.