Firmware Engineer

As a Firmware Engineer at Neuralink, you'll engage in creating and optimizing embedded software specifically for robotic surgery applications. Your tasks will include streamlining our existing codebase, conducting rigorous testing and validation of the software systems, writing drivers to enhance robotics functionalities, and collaborating with team members to share progress and findings.

Neuralink requires candidates to demonstrate proven experience in software development, especially with embedded systems. Preferred qualifications include over two years of experience with embedded systems, proficiency in languages like C, C++, or Rust, familiarity with various communication protocols, and a strong understanding of both electrical engineering concepts and MCU architectures.

Neuralink prides itself on offering great growth potential for Firmware Engineers. The company rewards team members who make a significant impact through rapid advancement opportunities, training, and supportive collaboration. You'll have access to mentorship and resources to further hone your skills in a pioneering environment.

The pay range for Firmware Engineers at Neuralink in Texas is between $89,000 and $212,000 USD. This range reflects the level of experience and skills of the candidates. In addition to salary, full-time employees can expect an equity package and several attractive benefits, further emphasizing the company’s commitment to its staff.

Firmware Engineers at Neuralink enjoy various benefits including comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance, flexible time off, parent leave, equity options, and a robust 401(k) plan. The company also provides meals, commuter benefits, and a vibrant environment to foster teamwork and innovation.

When answering this question, focus on specific projects where you developed or worked on embedded systems. Highlight the programming languages you used, mention methodologies such as Agile or Scrum, and demonstrate your understanding of relevant protocols and tools in the development process.

Here, articulate your experience with languages like C, C++, or Rust. Discuss specific instances where you used these languages to write drivers or applications that enhanced functionality and how you ensured code quality through testing and validation.

Explain your systematic approach to debugging, including techniques like code reviews, instrumentation, and using debuggers or oscilloscopes. Share an example where you successfully pinpointed an issue and how your methodical analysis helped enhance the system's performance.

Discuss your hands-on experience with these protocols and provide examples of how you've implemented them in your previous projects. Make sure to emphasize your understanding of when to use each protocol based on system requirements.

Choose a project that not only illustrates your technical skills but also your problem-solving abilities. Describe the challenges faced, your role in overcoming those challenges, and the impact of the project on the team or organization.

Mention specific resources like online courses, tech blogs, forums, or conferences you follow to stay updated on innovations in embedded systems. Additionally, elaborate on how you apply this knowledge in your work at Neuralink.

Detail the steps you take to ensure your software meets quality standards, including unit testing, integration testing, and system testing. Explain how you document your findings and share insights with your team to improve the development process.

Discuss your perspective on code reviews as a collaborative exercise. Explain how you provide constructive feedback and accept critique, emphasizing the importance of fostering an open environment for improvement and innovation within a team.

Delve into your familiarity with specific hardware platforms or microcontrollers. Cite specific projects that involved bringing up MCUs and the methodologies you employed to ensure efficient integration within your systems.

This is an excellent opportunity to express your passion for technology and help to enhance human capabilities. Connect your skills and experiences with Neuralink’s mission to create groundbreaking solutions, reinforcing why you are excited to contribute to such a transformative company.