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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
3
Salary range
£33k – £60k
Hiring companies
2
View 3 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

£33k – £60k

Based on advertised midpoints across the 6 priced listings posted in the last 12 months. Base salary only.

Salary visibility
10% of listings advertise a salary.
Skills & tools

What hiring managers ask for

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

C
58%
C++
50%
FPGA
42%
Embedded Systems
33%
UART
25%
C#
25%
Firmware
25%
VHDL
25%
SPI
17%
Debugging
17%
Version Control
17%
Embedded Software
17%
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

3 live roles

Newton Colmore logo

Firmware Engineer - Hardware Integration - Defence - Cambridge

This role involves developing new defensive technologies through firmware engineering and electronics hardware integration. You will work on cutting-edge projects, collaborate in a flat-structured team, and contribute to the defence of the UK and allied nations.

Newton Colmore Cambridge, United Kingdom
On-site Permanent Clearance Required

Embedded Firmware Engineer

Design and develop embedded firmware and electronics for next-generation ultrasonic sensing products used in industrial environments. Work across the full product lifecycle, integrating hardware and software, debugging systems, and supporting manufacturing and compliance. Use C/C++ on ARM Cortex-M platforms, with opportunities to work on low-power, safety-certified systems.

Cortech Talent Solutions Brislington, Bristol (county), BS4 4NF, United Kingdom £40,000 – £60,000 pa
On-site Permanent
Newton Colmore logo

FPGA Firmware Electronics Engineer - Defence - Cambridge

This role involves working on cutting-edge defence technologies, including communications, sensors, and detection systems. You will collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to develop and innovate, with opportunities for career growth and continuous learning.

Newton Colmore Cambridge, United Kingdom
On-site Permanent Clearance Required
Hiring locations

Where this role is hiring

The locations with the most live listings for this role today.

Cambridge

Location
2 open
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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