Own firmware development for coherent optical module programs (e.g., 400ZR/ZR+, 800ZR), from architecture through production release
Lead program-level firmware efforts , including bring-up, calibration, validation, and customer delivery milestones
Design and implement advanced firmware features such as hitless firmware upgrade, CMIS compliance, bootloader architecture, calibration and control engines, and hardware adaptation layers
Drive cross-functional collaboration with DSP, hardware, ATE, and test engineering teams to resolve complex system-level issues
Support customer engagements - respond to technical inquiries, debug field issues, and deliver firmware solutions that meet hyperscaler and carrier requirements
Contribute to firmware architecture decisions across the broader optics firmware platform, including shared infrastructure, tooling, and release processes
Mentor and guide other engineers on the team; serve as a technical resource and subject matter expert
15+ years of experience in embedded software/firmware architecture, design, and implementation
Deep expertise in coherent optical module firmware (400ZR, 800ZR, or equivalent) and associated standards (OIF-400ZR, C-CMIS, CMIS 4.x/5.x)
Strong background in bootloader design , firmware upgrade mechanisms (including hitless/in-service upgrade), and flash management
Experience with SoC-based embedded platforms (MCU/DSP-based architectures)
Proficiency in C/C++ firmware development and Python-based test/automation scripting
Demonstrated ability to own and deliver programs end-to-end - from alpha bring-up through GA release and production support
Strong debugging skills across hardware/firmware boundaries; experience with lab bench bring-up, ATE integration, and field issue resolution
Experience with Jira , GitLab , and CI/CD-based firmware release flows
Excellent communication skills; able to work effectively with customers, hardware engineers, and DSP teams
Preferred
Prior experience at an optical module company or optical semiconductor company
Familiarity with Marvell optical or coherent DSP platforms or equivalent
Background in calibration and control algorithms for optical components (EDFA, MZ, TOSA, etc.)
Expected Base Pay Range (USD)
177,820 - 266,400, $ per annum
The successful candidate's starting base pay will be determined based on job-related skills, experience, qualifications, work location and market conditions. The expected base pay range for this role may be modified based on market conditions.
Additional Compensation and Benefit Elements
Benefits
Health insuranceEquity / stock options
Additional Information
About Marvell
Marvell's semiconductor solutions are the essential building blocks of the data infrastructure that connects our world. Across enterprise, cloud and AI, and carrier architectures, our innovative technology is enabling new possibilities.
At Marvell, you can affect the arc of individual lives, lift the trajectory of entire industries, and fuel the transformative potential of tomorrow. For those looking to make their mark on purposeful and enduring innovation, above and beyond fleeting trends, Marvell is a place to thrive, learn, and lead.
Your Team, Your Impact
Marvell's Optics firmware team develops the software that powers the next generation of optical interconnects - from high-volume Data Center Interconnect (DCI) coherent modules (400ZR, 800ZR/ZR+) deployed at hyperscale cloud providers, to emerging Co-Packaged Optics (CPO) platforms that will redefine how compute and optical I/O are integrated at the rack level. Our products are at the heart of the industry's transition to higher-bandwidth, lower-power optical connectivity, and our firmware is a key differentiator in winning and retaining the world's most demanding customers. You'll join a team of experienced engineers who have shipped multiple generations of coherent module platforms and are now building the foundation for what comes next.
What You Can Expect
We are looking for a Senior Principal Firmware Engineer to join Marvell's Optical Connectivity firmware team in Santa Clara. This is a highly technical individual contributor role with broad program ownership across one or more coherent optical module programs. The ideal candidate brings deep expertise in embedded firmware for optical transceivers, a track record of leading complex multi-generation programs, and the ability to work effectively across firmware, hardware, DSP, and customer-facing teams.
Marvell · Santa Clara, CA