Software Development Engineer

As a Software Development Engineer at Ambiq Micro, Inc., your primary responsibilities include developing and executing tests to characterize power consumption for our ultra-low power SoCs, debugging power-related cases in collaboration with systems and design engineers, and providing guidance on ensuring optimal system performance while maintaining battery life. Additionally, you will plan and implement test infrastructure, develop automated test frameworks, report and manage defects, and work closely with various engineering and marketing teams to align on product requirements and use cases.

To be considered for the Software Development Engineer position at Ambiq Micro, Inc., candidates should possess a degree in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or a related field, along with experience in software development, particularly in testing and automation. Proficiency with programming languages such as Python or C is essential, and familiarity with power optimization techniques and semiconductor technologies will be a significant advantage. Being self-motivated and having excellent problem-solving skills are also key attributes for success in this role.

Yes, the Software Development Engineer position at Ambiq Micro, Inc. allows for telecommuting, as long as you are within commuting distance of Austin, TX. This flexibility is designed to accommodate talented individuals while promoting a work-life balance. Just be ready for potential up to 10% domestic travel for collaboration and key meetings.

In the Software Development Engineer role at Ambiq Micro, Inc., you'll engage in exciting projects focused on characterizing and optimizing energy efficiency in cutting-edge semiconductor technologies. Your work will significantly contribute to our customers' real-world use cases, ensuring the highest quality of power performance for battery-operated devices. You'll work on innovative solutions that push the boundaries of low-power design and contribute to Ambiq's mission of enabling intelligence everywhere.

Ambiq Micro, Inc. fosters a collaborative and innovative culture for its Software Development Engineers. The company values continuous learning, encourages open communication, and supports a creative workplace where new ideas can flourish. At Ambiq, you will work with passionate teams dedicated to solving complex problems in the semiconductor industry, with a shared commitment to delivering exceptional customer success and energy-efficient solutions.

When debugging power consumption issues, I start by gathering data on actual vs. expected power usage from testing. I analyze the test environment and work with the design and systems engineering teams to pinpoint discrepancies. Using tools and frameworks, I systematically isolate components to identify causes. A collaborative approach is crucial, ensuring open communication with team members to utilize their expertise effectively.

I am well-versed in various software testing methodologies, including unit testing, integration testing, and regression testing. In the context of the Software Development Engineer role at Ambiq Micro, I would utilize these methodologies to ensure robust test coverage, particularly focusing on automated frameworks that can efficiently report defects and validate power optimization goals.

I have extensive experience developing and implementing automated test frameworks which streamline the testing process and ensure consistent quality standards. In my previous roles, I utilized tools such as Python's unittest framework and Continuous Integration practices to automate regression testing, significantly reducing testing time and allowing for immediate feedback on power consumption metrics.

I prioritize testing by evaluating the impact and criticality of each system or feature in terms of customer use cases and power consumption requirements. I collaborate with stakeholders to establish priorities based on business goals, ensuring that high-risk areas are addressed first while maintaining an organized testing schedule.

To ensure optimal battery life, I employ a combination of thorough testing scenarios that emulate real-world usage patterns and continuous performance analysis. I focus on writing efficient code, minimizing resource consumption, and incorporating power-saving features during the development phase. Regular collaboration with hardware engineers also helps to align software and hardware for better energy efficiency.

I commonly use tools like JIRA and Bugzilla for defect tracking and management. These tools provide efficient collaboration features, allowing for seamless communication with team members on reported issues, prioritization, and tracking resolution progress, thereby ensuring that all defects are addressed timely and effectively.

One of my most challenging projects involved testing a new SoC under diverse, high-performance scenarios. As the lead software engineer, I developed automated test suites to simulate various conditions and identified critical power consumption issues. My role involved close collaboration with hardware teams to diagnose problems, leveraging data to drive improvements, and ultimately optimizing the design for better efficiency.

I stay updated by following industry publications, attending webinars and conferences, and participating in professional networks focused on semiconductor technologies. I also engage in online communities and take relevant courses to enhance my knowledge of emerging trends and innovations in low-power design and optimization strategies.

Collaboration is central to my work as a Software Development Engineer. It enhances problem-solving effectiveness, allows for sharing of knowledge and expertise, and fosters innovative solutions. I consistently engage with cross-functional teams to align on objectives, address challenges collectively, and ensure that our testing meets the high standards expected at Ambiq Micro.

When faced with unexpected test results, I take a systematic approach: first, I verify the results to rule out any testing errors. Then I investigate potential variables that could influence outcomes. Engaging with relevant team members helps in gathering insights and devising solutions. Ultimately, the focus is on identifying the root cause and implementing corrective measures while maintaining clear communication throughout the process.