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Firmware Engineer Jobs

Engineers who design and optimise the software that runs on edge devices. A critical role in ensuring the reliability and efficiency of IoT systems.

Open roles
2
Salary range
£34k – £63k
Hiring companies
1
View 2 live roles → Get an alert

Firmware Engineers in the edge computing domain are responsible for developing and maintaining the low-level software that runs on edge devices. These devices, which can range from small sensors to powerful gateways, are crucial for real-time data processing and communication in IoT and 5G networks. Firmware Engineers work closely with hardware designers, software developers, and system architects to ensure that edge devices operate efficiently, securely, and reliably. They are often involved in the entire product lifecycle, from initial design to testing and deployment.

What the role does

Inside the role of a Firmware Engineer

A typical week for a Firmware Engineer is a mix of coding, testing, and collaboration with cross-functional teams.

  1. 01
    Write and optimise low-level code for edge devices.
  2. 02
    Conduct unit tests and integration tests to ensure code quality.
  3. 03
    Collaborate with hardware engineers to resolve integration issues.
  4. 04
    Participate in code reviews and design discussions.
  5. 05
    Document firmware specifications and test results.
  6. 06
    Stay updated with the latest edge computing and IoT technologies.
Salary on the board

£34k – £63k

Based on advertised midpoints across the 9 UK listings priced in pounds in the last 12 months. Base salary only.

Salary visibility
14% of listings advertise a salary.
Skills & tools

What hiring managers ask for

% of 11 listings posted in the last 12 months that mention each skill, extracted from job descriptions.

C
64%
C++
55%
Embedded Systems
36%
FPGA
36%
UART
27%
C#
27%
Firmware
27%
SPI
18%
Debugging
18%
Version Control
18%
Embedded Software
18%
VHDL
18%
Career ladder

From Junior to Principal

A typical UK progression for firmware engineers. Years are guidance — strong people move faster, and many senior folks sidestep into research, product or management.

  1. Level 1

    Junior Firmware Engineer

    0–2 yrs

    Assist in the development and testing of firmware, focusing on learning and gaining hands-on experience.

  2. Level 2

    Firmware Engineer

    2–5 yrs

    Take ownership of specific firmware modules, contribute to design decisions, and lead small projects.

  3. Level 3

    Senior Firmware Engineer

    5–8 yrs

    Lead the development of complex firmware systems, mentor junior engineers, and drive innovation in edge computing solutions.

  4. Level 4

    Principal Firmware Engineer

    8+ yrs

    Oversee the firmware development for multiple projects, influence architectural decisions, and provide strategic direction for the team.

Pathway

How to become a Firmware Engineer

There's no single route, but most people follow some version of these steps.

  1. 1

    Learn the Basics

    Gain foundational knowledge in embedded systems, C/C++, and real-time operating systems.

  2. 2

    Gain Practical Experience

    Work on small projects or contribute to larger teams to develop and test firmware.

  3. 3

    Specialise in Edge Computing

    Focus on edge-specific challenges such as low-power design, real-time processing, and secure communication.

  4. 4

    Lead Projects

    Take on leadership roles in firmware development, managing teams and driving project success.

  5. 5

    Influence Architecture

    Contribute to high-level design decisions and influence the direction of edge computing solutions.

  6. 6

    Strategic Direction

    Provide strategic guidance and mentorship, shaping the future of firmware engineering in edge computing.

Live jobs

2 live roles

Firmware Engineer

This role involves developing embedded firmware and hardware for load monitoring and measurement systems used in marine, construction, energy, and infrastructure sectors. You'll work on wireless sensors, load cells, and monitoring systems, using C/C++ and microcontrollers like PIC, while collaborating across engineering disciplines. The position supports career growth through mentorship and hands-on experience across the full product lifecycle.

Platinum Recruitment Consultancy Waterlooville, Hampshire, United Kingdom £40,000 – £41,000 pa

Firmware Engineer

This role involves developing firmware and embedded systems for advanced load monitoring and measurement solutions. You'll work on wireless sensor boards, load cells, and monitoring systems, collaborating with experienced engineers across the product development lifecycle from concept to production.

Platinum Recruitment Consultancy Hampshire, United Kingdom £42,000 – £49,000 pa
FAQs

Common questions

  • Essential skills include proficiency in C/C++, understanding of embedded systems, knowledge of real-time operating systems, and experience with low-level programming and hardware interfaces.

  • Knowledge of IoT protocols is crucial as it enables Firmware Engineers to design and implement secure, efficient, and interoperable edge devices.

  • Main challenges include optimising performance for low-power and resource-constrained environments, ensuring real-time responsiveness, and maintaining security and reliability.

  • Career progression typically starts with junior roles, advancing to senior and lead positions, and eventually to principal engineer roles with strategic and leadership responsibilities.

  • Salary ranges can vary based on experience, location, and company size. For specific salary information, please refer to the salary section on this page.

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