Principal Firmware Architect - Hyperscale & AI Rack- Compute Systems

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.

• 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, work groups, and consortiums related to firmware and security initiatives.

• 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.

• 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.

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

• 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.

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.

At ZT Systems, a Sanmina Company, we believe that investing in our people is key to our continued growth and…