Staff Engineer, Firmware Engineering

WD is building the infrastructure behind the AI-driven data economy.

As AI scales, so does data. Every interaction, every model, every system generates data that must be stored, managed, and made accessible over time. That’s where we come in.

We combine deep engineering expertise with global-scale manufacturing to deliver the storage systems that make AI possible, powering hyperscale data centers, cloud platforms, and enterprise infrastructure worldwide.

This isn’t theoretical work. It’s real systems, at real scale, people solving some of the hardest challenges in technology today.

We’re looking for people who want to build, solve, and operate at that level.

Join us and let’s shape the future of data.

As a Firmware Development Engineer, you will be responsible for FW/SW development related to HDD lifetime, tribology performance, and ADC evaluation for key components. You will also conduct daily monitoring of ongoing iDEC (in-Drive Evaluation of Components) projects. You will collaborate with global experts to resolve complex technical challenges and advance next-generation high-capacity enterprise HDD technologies.

Key Responsibilities:

• HDD level Head/Media Recording Integration & Test code development.
• Perform failure analysis using bench testers, oscilloscopes, and diagnostic tools
• Conduct data analysis with AI/ML techniques for code validation and debugging
• Characterize head/media recording performance and evaluate parameter margins
• Oversee ongoing development experiments, identify issues, and deliver effective technical solutions.
• Partner with worldwide technical experts on technology development, assessment, and cross-functional problem-solving

• Education:

MS or above in EE, CS, ME, Automation, Physics, or related engineering fields

• Experience: 

Direct experience in hardware/software product development and testing

Good understanding of magnetic recording and integration

Capable of developing test algorithms, performing FA to identify root causes of recording system problems

Proficient in database setup, data automation & analysis with AI/ML techniques.

• General Skills:

(Core skills) Good programming skills (C/C++, Matlab, Python, Bash, Git etc.)

(Core skills) Skillful using office app (Outlook, Word, Excel, PPT etc.)

(optional) Skillful using lab measurement equipment (oscilloscopes, bench tester)

(optional) Skillful using data and statistics analysis tools (Python, JMP, PowerBI, SQL, JAVA etc.)

(optional) Proficient and thorough in detailed analysis on large data sets

• Communication:

(Core skills) Proficiency in English in reading, writing, and speaking with good communication skills

(Core skills) Self-motivated with the ability to effectively multi-task and work collaboratively in a fast-paced, team environment

Clear concise reporting of important key findings and results; Detail-oriented.

WD thrives on the power and potential of diversity. As a global company, we believe the most effective way to embrace the diversity of our customers and communities is to mirror it from within. We believe the fusion of various perspectives results in the best outcomes for our employees, our company, our customers, and the world around us. We are committed to an inclusive environment where every individual can thrive through a sense of belonging, respect and contribution.

WD is committed to offering opportunities to applicants with disabilities and ensuring all candidates can successfully navigate our careers website and our hiring process. Please contact us at [email protected] to advise us of your accommodation request. In your email, please include a description of the specific accommodation you are requesting as well as the job title and requisition number of the position for which you are applying.

Notice To Candidates: Please be aware that WD and its subsidiaries will never request payment as a condition for applying for a position or receiving an offer of employment. Should you encounter any such requests, please report it immediately to WD Ethics Helpline or email [email protected].