Firmware Engineer

POSITION SUMMARY

The Firmware Engineer works with the engineering and scientific teams to develop laboratory systems that deliver state-of-the-art solutions for biodefense, clinical, and life sciences markets. The Firmware Engineer I designs and develops ‘C’, ‘C++’ firmware and Python software for MSD’s instruments.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES 

• Develop firmware in an embedded variant of C++ running on a real-time kernel targeted to Microchip/Atmel ARM processors. The firmware monitors sensors, processes real-time data and controls actuators to implement the following functions:
• Motion control using encoders, limit sensors, stepper and DC motor drivers.
• Fluidics staging and control using fluidic position sensors, pressure sensors, miniaturized pumps and valves.
• Temperature control using thermal sensors, resistive heaters and TECs.
• Electrochemiluminescence (ECL) excitation and quantization of emitted light.
• Computation, display and storage of results.
• Command and control interfaces over USB.
• Network interfaces.
• Firmware interfaces to the microcontroller’s internal memory mapped peripherals (timer/counters, PWMs, ADC, DACs, watchdog system, etc.).
• Firmware interfaces to the microcontroller’s external peripherals on SPI and I2C busses.
• Barcode scanning and decoding using imaging sensors and barcode scanning libraries.
• Support Instrument illumination and other industrial design goals.
• Develop test and alignment routines in Python running on Windows and Linux based SBCs to implement the following
• GUI applications to support firmware based PCB tests.
• GUI applications to support instrument test, alignment and results reporting.
• GUI applications to support incoming inspection and test of image sensors and lenses.
• Support verification, test, debug and failure analysis activities using JTAG debuggers, oscilloscopes, logic analyzers and multimeters.
• Support process improvement and development.
• Document intellectual property as needed 

EXPERIENCE AND QUALIFICATIONS

• B.S. in Computer Science, Electrical or Computer Engineering or related field
• M.S. in an engineering discipline preferred
• Additional years of experience may be substituted for a degree.
• Experience in the design and development of embedded firmware
• 2 years hands-on direct design experience or an equivalent combination of education and experience
• Preferred minimum 1 year experience in medical devices or similar regulated industry
• Experience with C, C++ and Python.
• Experience in an ISO or cGMP environment preferred 

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES 

• Strong design fundamentals and analytical background
• Logical problem solving and demonstrated ability to organize and move project tasks forward in an orderly and structured fashion
• Demonstrate ability to designing, troubleshooting, optimization and validation
• Excellent oral, written communication and interpersonal skills are required
• Effectively communicate issues/problems and results that impact timelines, accuracy and reliability of project status
• Understand all phases of a firmware product lifecycle
• Understanding of ISO and/or FDA cGMP standards and their documentation requirements
  • Excellent documentation skills, technical writing and presentation skills required
• Proficiency in MS Office suite and  engineering computing software is required (graphics editing, general statistics, etc) 

• A wide degree of creativity and latitude is expected including the ability to multi-task in an environment with changing priorities

PHYSICAL DEMANDS 

This position requires the ability to communicate and exchange information, utilize equipment necessary to perform the job, and move about the office.

WORK ENVIRONMENT 

 This position is performed in a traditional office environment, laboratory setting, and/or light-manufacturing facility.

COMPENSATION SUMMARY 

The annual base salary for this position ranges from $78,100 to $116,200. This salary range represents a general guideline as MSD considers other factors when presenting an offer of employment, such as scope and responsibilities of the position, external market factors, and the candidate’s knowledge, skills, abilities, education and experience. Employees may qualify for a discretionary or non-discretionary bonus in addition to their base salary. These annual bonuses are intended to recognize individual performance and enable employees to benefit from the Company's overall success. 

BENEFITS SUMMARY 

At MSD, we offer a comprehensive benefits package to support our employees' well-being and financial security. In addition to competitive salaries, our benefits include medical, dental, and vision coverage, along with prescription benefits. We provide a 401(k) plan with company matching, flexible spending accounts, and company-paid short- and long-term disability insurance as well as group life and accidental death and dismemberment insurance. Our offerings also encompass paid vacation, paid sick leave, paid holidays, and paid parental leave, along with an employee assistance program. Additional voluntary perks include a fitness club membership contribution, pet insurance, identity theft protection, home and auto insurance discounts, and optional supplemental life insurance. 

EEO STATEMENT 

MSD is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace where all individuals are treated with respect and dignity. We welcome applications from all qualified candidates, making employment decisions without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, genetic information, marital status, national origin, age, protected veteran status, pregnancy, disability status, or any other protected characteristic. For our full EEO statement, please visit here. Meso Scale Diagnostics uses E-Verify to validate the work eligibility of candidates.