Firmware Architect (SoC / Embedded Systems)

Advanced Micro Devices; San Jose (CA); On-site; USD 150,000 - 230,000; Full time

Job summary

AMD in San Jose, CA is seeking an SoC Architect specializing in Boot, Firmware, and Software/Hardware interfacing. You will define firmware architecture for next‑generation SoCs, ensuring robust boot flows and safety compliance, collaborating with other architects to integrate firmware with processor subsystems and system‑level components.

You should have deep expertise in ARM and x86 boot flows, experience with low‑level drivers, ISO 26262 or equivalent, and strong cross‑functional

Qualifications

• BS, MS or PhD in Computer/Electrical Engineering or related field.
• Proven track record in delivering architecture for SoCs with robust boot and firmware solutions.
• Experience with ARM/x86 boot flows and functional safety standards.

Responsibilities

• Define and develop firmware architecture for SoC boot flows and system initialization.
• Collaborate with SoC architects to integrate firmware with hardware components.
• Specify requirements and create detailed documentation for boot interfaces.
• Drive functional safety‑compliant firmware and software implementations.
• Partner with design, verification, and software teams for system validation.
• Analyze trade‑offs for performance, power, reliability, and safety.
• Influence security and lifecycle management across firmware domains.

Skills

ARM architecture

x86 architecture

Boot flows

Firmware development

C programming

Python

System-level design

Cross-functional collaboration

Education

BS in Computer Engineering or related field

MS/PhD in Electrical Engineering or related field

Tools

AXI

Embedded drivers

Hardware abstraction layers

Modeling & automation with Python

Job description

WHAT YOU DO AT AMD CHANGES EVERYTHING

At AMD, our mission is to build great products that accelerate next‑generation computing experiences—from AI and data centers, to PCs, gaming and embedded systems. Grounded in a culture of innovation and collaboration, we believe real progress comes from bold ideas, human ingenuity and a shared passion to create something extraordinary. When you join AMD, you’ll discover the real differentiator is our culture. We push the limits of innovation to solve the world’s most important challenges—striving for execution excellence, while being direct, humble, collaborative, and inclusive of diverse perspectives. Join us as we shape the future of AI and beyond.

THE TEAM

The AECG x86 Embedded Team builds and optimizes x86 platforms for embedded and commercial applications, working across silicon, firmware, and software to deliver reliable, high‑performance solutions at scale.

THE ROLE

We are seeking an SoC Architect specializing in Boot, Firmware, and Software/Hardware Interfacing. In this role, you will define and drive firmware architecture for next‑generation SoCs, ensuring robust boot flows and compliance with functional safety standards. You will collaborate closely with other SoC architects to integrate firmware seamlessly with processor subsystems, interconnects, and system‑level components.

THE PERSON

You are passionate about SoC architecture and firmware design, with deep expertise in boot flows for ARM and x86 platforms. You thrive in cross‑functional environments, balancing performance, power, and reliability trade‑offs. You have strong analytical skills, excellent communication, and the ability to influence architecture decisions across teams.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Define and develop firmware architecture for SoC boot flows, reset sequences, and system initialization.
• Collaborate with SoC architects to ensure cohesive integration of firmware with hardware components.
• Specify requirements and create detailed documentation for boot and firmware interfaces.
• Drive implementation of functional safety‑compliant firmware and software.
• Partner with design, verification, and software teams to ensure functional correctness and system‑level validation.
• Analyze trade‑offs for performance, power, reliability, and safety in firmware design.
• Influence strategies for security, safety, and lifecycle management across firmware domains.

PREFERRED EXPERIENCE

• Experience in ARM and x86 SoC boot flows, including secure boot and power‑on initialization.
• Expertise in firmware development for SoCs, including low‑level drivers and hardware abstraction layers.
• Experience with functional safety compliance (ISO 26262 or equivalent) for firmware and software.
• Familiarity with SoC architecture, processor subsystems, interconnect protocols (e.g., AXI), and memory systems.
• Knowledge of low‑power design techniques, reset flows, and power management.
• Proficiency in modeling and automation using C, Python or similar languages.
• Strong understanding of security and reliability strategies for embedded firmware.

ACADEMIC & EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS

• BS, MS, or PhD in Computer/Electrical Engineering or related field.
• Proven track record in delivering architecture for SoCs with robust boot and firmware solutions.

Location: San Jose, CA

AMD is an equal opportunity, inclusive employer and will consider all applicants without regard to age, ancestry, color, marital status, medical condition, mental or physical disability, national origin, race, religion, political and/or third‑party affiliation, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, military or veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. We encourage applications from all qualified candidates and will accommodate applicants’ needs under the respective laws throughout all stages of the recruitment and selection process.