Embedded Firmware Engineer (USB-C, USB-PD)

Embedded Firmware Engineer (USB-C, PD) We are seeking an embedded firmware engineer to join our team in developing cutting-edge hardware centered around USB-C Power Delivery controllers. You will play a crucial role in transforming bare PCBs into production-quality firmware. This position involves writing and debugging firmware on 32-bit ARM microcontrollers, configuring companion ICs over I2C/SPI/UART, and collaborating closely with our hardware team. Responsibilities Bring up new PCBs by validating power and clocks, connecting debuggers, enabling peripherals, and running firmware on new hardware. Develop and debug embedded C firmware on ARM Cortex-M-class microcontrollers. Configure and drive companion ICs over I2C or other peripheral buses. Implement and debug USB-C / USB-PD behavior, including power negotiation, source/sink roles, and fault handling. Perform debugging at the bench using tools such as oscilloscopes, protocol/logic analyzers, multimeters, and SWD/JTAG. Work from datasheets, register tables, and schematics to document configurations and design decisions. Collaborate with hardware engineers to isolate hardware versus firmware issues. Essential Skills Proficiency in embedded C on 32-bit microcontrollers (ARM Cortex-M or similar), including interrupts, register-level peripheral work, and development under flash/RAM constraints. Understanding of USB-C/USB-PD, including source/sink/DRP roles and power contract negotiation. Experience with I2C/SPI/UART peripheral/companion-IC communication, configuration, and debugging. Hands-on experience with hardware bring-up, from power-on to running firmware or debugging firmware against real hardware. Ability to read and interpret datasheets and schematics to configure parts from register tables and confirm pin/power connections. Competence in using standard bench debugging tools such as oscilloscopes, logic/protocol analyzers, SWD/JTAG debuggers, and UART logging. Proficiency with Git for version control. Additional Skills & Qualifications Experience with Cypress/Infineon MCU SDK/IDE and its middleware, such as ModusToolbox or STM32Cube, including creating/customizing board support packages. Experience with firmware update/bootloader work, such as DFU or equivalent, including building and flashing update images. Knowledge of power-path or regulator firmware, including VBUS control, fault detection/recovery, and enable/soft-start sequencing. Experience with USB subsystems, including hubs, DisplayPort Alt Mode, redrivers/retimers, or billboard devices. Familiarity with USB-IF PD compliance/USB-C requirements. Work Environment This position offers a flexible 3-day work schedule in an office environment. You will have the opportunity to be part of an early-stage team in Bellevue, contributing to the development of some of the world's most advanced technology. Job Type & Location This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Bellevue, WA. Pay and Benefits The pay range for this position is $80.00 - $116.00/hr. Individual compensation offered for this position within this range will depend on many factors, including qualifications, skills, relevant experience, job knowledge, geographic location, internal equity, and other pertinent job-related factors. Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: • Medical, dental & vision • Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital • 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available • Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) • Short and long-term disability • Health Spending Account (HSA) • Transportation benefits • Employee Assistance Program • Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave) Workplace Type This is a hybrid position in Bellevue,WA. Application Deadline This position is anticipated to close on Sep 23, 2026. Actalent