Principal Firmware Architect - Hyperscale & AI Rack-Based Compute Systems (Georgetown)

About the Role

The Principal Firmware Architect will be responsible for architecting server and rack‑level solutions for customers in the cloud computing and hyperscale industry. This role includes working directly with customers and core technology partners to understand and solve technical challenges, as well as providing technical leadership and guidance to internal engineering, management, and business teams.

What You’ll Do

• Develop long‑term hyperscale server firmware and security technology strategies based on customer needs.
• Develop, test, debug, and optimize firmware for ZT hyperscale compute/storage products and proof of concepts.
• Drive adoption of firmware development strategies internally and externally.
• Collaborate directly with customers on new firmware architectures for compute servers, storage servers, and add‑on cards.
• Solve performance and operational challenges to deliver business value through ZT firmware.
• Contribute firmware and security content to System Architecture Specifications for ZT server products.
• Build long‑term technical relationships within the firmware technology ecosystem to influence next‑generation server design.
• Align with customers and partners on security requirements and guide ZT engineering teams accordingly.
• Participate in in‑depth security reviews and drive compliance with industry standards.
• Engage in industry forums, workgroups, and consortiums related to firmware and security initiatives.

What You Bring

• Proficiency in one or more of the following: AMI BMC FW, OpenBMC FW, HP iLO, Dell iDRAC, UEFI FW (BIOS).
• Experience with DMTF standards such as MCTP, NC‑SI, PLDM, OVF, Redfish, SPDM.
• Knowledge of security protocols, Root of Trust, and secure design principles.
• Experience with operating systems and driver design/usage.
• Strong background in Intel/AMD/ARM/GPU platform architectures.
• Strong understanding of Baseboard Management Controller (BMC) functionality, telemetry, and controls.
• Working knowledge of server operating systems including Windows Server (2016, 2019, 2022) and Linux (CentOS, Ubuntu, Fedora, SUSE).
• Knowledge of virtualization technologies (VMware, Citrix, Microsoft).
• Understanding of software driver implementation, IP schemas, and network protocols.
• Demonstrated ability to learn and apply new technologies.

Competencies

• Ability to innovate and develop intellectual property.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and negotiation skills.
• Ability to author technical papers and present at industry forums and consortiums.
• Capability to lead prototyping and proof‑of‑concept development for new technologies.

Education

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering or Computer Science.
• Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering or Computer Science (preferred).

Experience

• 12+ years of direct industry experience (10+ years with MS or 9+ years with PhD).
• Background as a Software/Firmware Architect focused on UEFI firmware, BMC firmware, and OS/drivers, including:
  • Experience coding for AMI and/or OpenBMC‑based BMC firmware.
  • Experience with DMTF Redfish.
  • Experience coding for UEFI firmware (BIOS).
  • Experience with security protocols.
  • Experience with operating systems and driver design/usage.

About ZT Systems

At ZT Systems, a Sanmina Company, you’ll get to do work you are proud of alongside smart, passionate people. Every day, there are opportunities to collaborate with the best in the industry to design, build, and deliver impactful solutions to world‑class customers. Along the way, you will gain hands‑on experience in a fast‑paced environment that’s challenging, rewarding, and career‑defining.

A culture built around our values we work hard and think fast. We view challenges as opportunities—to do better, push harder, and be faster than we were the day before. When we fail, we learn from it and move on together. And when we succeed, we use the momentum to go even further. We create value with everything we do, building the foundation of today—and transforming the future of tomorrow.

Join ZT Systems and help us build technology infrastructure that connects the world.

What We Offer

At ZT Systems, a Sanmina Company, we believe that investing in our people is key to our continued growth and innovation. When you join our team, you’ll gain access to a comprehensive and inclusive benefits package designed to support your well‑being, financial security, and professional development—both now and in the future.

Compensation & Financial Security

• Competitive base salary
• Performance‑based annual bonus eligibility
• 401(k) retirement savings plan
• Tuition reimbursement for eligible education programs

Health & Wellness

• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage with access to leading providers
• Mental health resources and employee wellness support programs
• Company‑paid life and disability insurance

Time Away & Work‑Life Balance

• Paid time off (PTO) and company‑paid holidays
• Parental leave and family care support programs

Growth & Purpose

• Structured training programs and on‑the‑job learning opportunities
• Matching gifts and volunteer programs to support causes you care about

These benefits are available to eligible employees and are designed to grow with you as your career evolves. Full benefits and eligibility varies by work location. Learn more about our benefits here.

ZT Group Int’l. is an Equal Opportunity Employer and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any kind. ZT Systems provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws.

Please be aware that certain positions may require the applicant to either 1) be a (i) U.S. citizen or national, (ii) U.S. lawful, permanent resident (aka green card holder), (iii) Refugee under 8 U.S.C. § 1157, or (iv) Asylee under 8 U.S.C. § 1158, or 2) be eligible to obtain an export control license or license exception from the Bureau of Industry and Science & U.S. Department of Commerce. All offers of employment will be conditional subject to the foregoing.