Field Application Engineer - Microcontrollers

NXP Semiconductors; San Jose (CA); On-site; USD 121,000 - 167,000; Full time

Job summary

NXP Semiconductors in California is seeking an experienced engineer to join our Microcontroller Customer Application Support team. You will engage with microcontroller customers to support deployment of the latest silicon technology into next-generation vehicles, collaborating with R&D, marketing and sales to meet customer objectives.

The role requires 5+ years in embedded systems, strong C/C++ and knowledge of SoC interfaces, plus willingness to travel up to 25% within CA and MI.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s or master’s degree in EE/CE/CS or equivalent.
• Minimum 5 years development engineering or applications support of microcontroller-based embedded systems.
• Experience with C and C++ and embedded firmware development.
• Knowledge of typical SoC hardware interfaces (Ethernet, MIPI, SDIO, LP DDR3/4, SPI, USB2.0/3.0, UART, I2C).
• Excellent verbal and written communication and ability to present to diverse audiences.
• Ability to troubleshoot issues, analyze data and schematics, and develop solutions.
• Willing to travel up to 25%, mostly within California and Michigan.

Responsibilities

• Embedded software development expertise.
• Develop and present cross-functional system solutions including concepts, silicon design and validation plans.
• Opportunity identification, software bring-up, bench build, software porting, pre-development, and design reviews.
• Root-cause analysis and driving resolution cross-functionally with partners and customers.
• Disciplined project management of cross-functional plans to completion on time.
• Provide training to customers and NXP colleagues on products.
• Feedback to engineering and product teams to influence future offerings.
• Engage in ongoing training and development and collaborate with multiple disciplines.

Skills

Embedded software

C/C++

SoC interfaces

System solution design

ARM Cortex familiarity

RTOS knowledge

Travel readiness

Education

Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Electrical/Computer Engineering or Computer Science

Tools

Ethernet

MIPI

SDIO

LPDDR3/4

SPI

USB 2.0/3.0

UART

I2C

Job description

AI is rapidly moving beyond research labs and into the real world—powering advancements in vehicles, factories, hospitals, homes, and everyday devices. NXP’s Global Sales organization is the force that transforms our intelligent edge vision into meaningful market impact. We operate on the front lines of innovation, delivering real‑world AI, secure edge intelligence, and breakthrough technologies to the customers shaping tomorrow’s world. As a strategic partner at the intersection of customer ambition and NXP capability, our global sales team drives alignment, opens new markets, and builds the relationships that lead to design wins and revenue growth. Through deep market insight and long‑term collaboration, we embed customer‑centricity into every decision and help accelerate innovation at the system‑solution level. This disciplined, client‑first mindset enables us to architect integrated, future‑ready solutions that deliver sustained value and strengthen NXP’s competitive advantage. We thrive in a high‑performance, high‑ownership environment—competing boldly, executing with urgency, and celebrating results. If you want to win big, grow fast, and work with the customers building what’s next, NXP Global Sales is where ambition becomes achievement.

What to Expect

Join us to help build the next generation of smart, sustainable vehicles—your work will directly influence how millions experience mobility! We are seeking a highly motivated and experienced engineer to join our Microcontroller Customer Application Support team! You will serve in the critical capacity of engaging with a broad range of microcontroller customers to support deployment of the latest silicon technology into the next generation of vehicles. You will join a diverse, passionate team that values creativity, open communication, and having fun while solving tough problems together developing leading‑edge software & hardware solutions.

Your Role

• Embedded software development expertise
• Independent development and presentation of cross‑functional system solutions including concepts, silicon design and validation plans designed to meet customer needs
• Opportunity identification, software bring‑up, bench build, software porting, custom pre‑development, schematic & PCB design reviews
• Issue root cause identification and driving resolution cross‑functionally within the company and with customers as well as supply base partners
• Disciplined project management of cross‑functional enterprise plans to completion on time in accordance with customer expectations
• Customer & NXP colleague technical training for products within scope of responsibility
• Product Development Feedback: you will provide valuable guidance to NXP's engineering and product development teams, influencing the design of future product offerings
• Training and Development: you will have access to ongoing training, mentorship from industry leaders, and opportunities to work on projects that push the boundaries of microcontroller innovation.
• Collaboration: you will build long‑term relationships with FAE colleagues as well as other disciplines within the company including R&D, marketing, and sales as you work together to accomplish customer objectives

Core Requirements

• Bachelor’s or master’s degree in electrical engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Science or Equivalent
• Minimum 5 years development engineering or applications support of microcontroller based embedded systems
• Experience with C and C++ and a record of developing embedded firmware
• Demonstrated knowledge of typical SoC hardware interfaces (Ethernet, MIPI, SDIO, LP DDR3/4, Quad/Octal SPI, USB2.0/3.0, UART, SPI, I2C)
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, ability to present complex technical information to both technical and non‑technical audiences, and strong interpersonal skills
• Ability to personally troubleshoot technical issues, analyze data and schematics, and develop effective solutions
• Willing to travel (up to 25%, mostly within California and Michigan)

Bonus Skills

• Knowledge of ARM Cortex processors
• Experience using Real‑Time OS systems: SafeRTOS, FreeRTOS and Zephyr
• Firsthand knowledge of graphics and video subsystems and related software drivers
• Experience in microcontroller electronics & software development
• Experience as a Field Application Engineer

Salary and Benefits

• The base salary range for this position is as mentioned below per year. We also provide competitive benefits, incentive compensation, and/or equity for certain roles.
• Company benefits include health. dental, and vision insurance. 401(k), and paid leave.
• Please note that the base salary range (OR hourly rate) is a guideline, and individual total compensation may vary based on a number of factors such as qualifications, skill level, work location, and other business and organizational needs.
• This base pay range is specific to California and is not applicable to other locations.
• A reasonable estimate of the base salary range as of the date of this posting is: $121,400 to $166,900 annually

Equal Opportunity & Diversity Statement

NXP is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer regardless of age, color, national origin, race, religion, creed, gender, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, marital status, status as a disabled veteran and/or veteran of the Vietnam Era or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local law. In addition, NXP will provide reasonable accommodations for otherwise qualified disabled individuals.

Company Information & Culture

NXP Semiconductors N.V. (NASDAQ: NXPI) enables a smarter, safer, and more sustainable world through innovation. As the world leader in secure connectivity solutions for embedded applications, NXP is pushing boundaries in the automotive, industrial & IoT, mobile, and communication infrastructure markets. For more information, visit www.nxp.com Bright Minds. Bright Futures. We believe that a key component to growing our business is to develop our people. To enable you to grow your career at NXP, we offer online and offline learning opportunities to help you develop some of your core and professional skills. Commitment At NXP. We recognize NXP is a powerful change agent as we continue to deliver innovative solutions that advance a more sustainable future. We remain steadfast in our commitment to sustainability and making measurable year‑on‑year progress. Also, we aim to create an inclusive work environment and we will not tolerate racism, discrimination or harassment of any kind. We have programs in place focused on diversity, inclusion and equality.

Thank you for considering a career at NXP.