Firmware Engineer I

Ultima Genomics; Iowa; On-site; USD 95,000 - 115,000; Full time

Job summary

Ultima Genomics is seeking a Firmware Engineer I to join our team in Fremont, CA. This entry-level role focuses on developing embedded firmware for next-generation sequencing instruments, connecting software with hardware, and performing hands-on hardware-in-the-loop testing.

You’ll collaborate with electrical engineers, evaluate new components, and contribute to robust, reliable instrument operation while growing your firmware skills in a fast-paced genomics environment.

Qualifications

• BS in Computer Science, Computer Engineering or a related field.
• An advanced degree, such as MS, or relevant internship experience is strongly preferred
• Hands-on embedded firmware experience through coursework, academic or personal projects, internships, or industry work, involving interfacing with sensors, motors or other actuators
• Working knowledge of C programming and microcontroller fundamentals
• Ability to use a digital voltmeter (DVM), oscilloscope, and logic analyzers to measure and interpret physical signals and distinguish firmware bugs from hardware issues
• A hands-on approach to problem-solving, strong organizational and communication skills, and the ability to work independently and collaborate with others
• Familiarity with industrial communication protocols such as CAN or EtherCAT.
• Ability to read electrical schematics and printed circuit board (PCB) layouts to support firmware integration and debugging
• Experience with Python for test automation or data analysis, or with automated test platforms and reliability testing

Responsibilities

• Develop and maintain embedded firmware for automated sequencing instruments, including sensor and actuator interfaces, robotics, precision motion control, high-speed data acquisition, and mixed-signal electronics
• Work with electrical engineers to integrate firmware and hardware, contributing to design discussions about interfaces, communication protocols, and system robustness
• Develop automated hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) firmware tests to validate board-level functionality and support reliable instrument operation and develop automated software-in-the-loop (SIL) testing to identify regressions early in the development process
• Help evaluate new hardware components and reduce integration risks by reviewing datasheets and errata, assembling development boards or prototype electronics, and writing firmware to assess functionality and reliability
• Run hands-on experiments to verify hardware and firmware functionality, characterize performance, and investigate board-level failures
• Other job duties as assigned

Skills

Embedded firmware

C programming

Electrical measurement

CAN/EtherCAT

PCB schematics

Python for tests

Team collaboration

Independent work

Education

BS in Computer Science or Computer Engineering

MS degree or relevant internship preferred

Job description

Rapidly Growing Life Sciences Technology Company

Ultima Genomics is a rapidly growing company that is developing ground-breaking genomics technologies. Our mission is to continuously drive the scale of genomic information to enable unprecedented advances in biology and improvements in human health. We have developed a foundational new approach to sequencing at scale that overcomes limitations due to the high costs of current technologies. We are well-funded and have raised over $700 million from global top-tier investors and partners who share our vision. Our team brings together unique and diverse expertise across multiple disciplines, from healthcare and life sciences, to engineering, to technology and software and beyond. We are a collaborative group, including successful entrepreneurs, chemists, hardware and software engineers, genomics and biotechnology experts, molecular and computational biologists, software and algorithm experts, and operations and commercial leaders. Join us to develop and commercialize technologies that unleash the power of genomics at scale and empower the future of human health.

We are looking for a highly motivated Firmware Engineer I to join our team!

As a Firmware Engineer I, you will help develop firmware for our next-generation automated sequencing instruments. This role is ideal for an early-career engineer who enjoys hands-on development, connecting software with hardware, and applying engineering skills to next-generation sequencing technology.

This is a full-time onsite position at our Fremont, CA location.

How You’ll Contribute

• Develop and maintain embedded firmware for automated sequencing instruments, including sensor and actuator interfaces, robotics, precision motion control, high-speed data acquisition, and mixed-signal electronics
• Work with electrical engineers to integrate firmware and hardware, contributing to design discussions about interfaces, communication protocols, and system robustness
• Develop automated hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) firmware tests to validate board-level functionality and support reliable instrument operation and develop automated software-in-the-loop (SIL) testing to identify regressions early in the development process
• Help evaluate new hardware components and reduce integration risks by reviewing datasheets and errata, assembling development boards or prototype electronics, and writing firmware to assess functionality and reliability
• Run hands-on experiments to verify hardware and firmware functionality, characterize performance, and investigate board-level failures
• Other job duties as assigned

Qualifications, Skills, Knowledge & Abilities

• BS in Computer Science, Computer Engineering or a related field
• An advanced degree, such as MS, or relevant internship experience is strongly preferred
• Hands-on embedded firmware experience through coursework, academic or personal projects, internships, or industry work, involving interfacing with sensors, motors or other actuators
• Working knowledge of C programming and microcontroller fundamentals
• Ability to use a digital voltmeter (DVM), oscilloscope, and logic analyzers to measure and interpret physical signals and distinguish firmware bugs from hardware issues
• A hands-on approach to problem-solving, strong organizational and communication skills, and the ability to work independently and collaborate with others
• Familiarity with industrial communication protocols such as CAN or EtherCAT.
• Ability to read electrical schematics and printed circuit board (PCB) layouts to support firmware integration and debugging
• Experience with Python for test automation or data analysis, or with automated test platforms and reliability testing

At Ultima Genomics, your base pay is one part of your total compensation package. This role pays between $95,000 and $115,000, if performed in California, and your actual base pay will depend on your skills, qualifications, experience, and location. Please note that the compensation details listed in US role postings reflect the base salary only, and do not include bonus, equity, or benefits. This role is also eligible for a competitive benefits package that includes: medical, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance; 401(k) retirement plan; flexible spending & health savings account; paid holidays; paid time off; employee assistance program; and other company benefits.

#LI-Onsite

Ultima Genomics is proud to be an equal opportunity workplace and is an affirmative action employer. We provide equal employment opportunity for all applicants and employees. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), gender identity, gender expression, national origin, ancestry, citizenship, age, physical or mental disability, military or veteran status, marital status, domestic partner status, sexual orientation, genetic information, or any other basis protected by applicable laws. See also Ultima Genomics’ EEO Policy and Know Your Rights. If you have a disability or special need that requires accommodation, please let us know by contacting [e-mail].