Principal Engineer, Software Development Engineering; Apps

Principal Engineer, Software Development Engineering (Apps)

Be part of a small, dynamic team of Customer Firmware Engineers within the Hard Disk Drive organization. The Customer Firmware team is the first touch point on technical customer engagements, processes, and technical discussions involving firmware. Customer Firmware Engineers work closely with validation organizations, firmware development teams, and multiple sales‑related teams. Ideal candidates have a passion for helping customers through technical issues, ensuring Western Digital meets customer needs and expectations in firmware while thriving in a dynamic work environment where multitasking skills are challenged.

• This position is in the Customer Firmware Support team whose mission is to ensure customer satisfaction on firmware features, HDD qualifications, and ongoing support
• The team is responsible for bringing up new HDD products and providing firmware engineering technical support to customers throughout the product life cycle
• Communicate customer status and priorities into upper management
• Develop customer technical material and guide customers through technical discussions
• Lead internal process improvement initiatives through collaborative work sessions and training

• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or related field;
  Master's degree preferred
• 4+ years of experience in relevant software development, with at least 2 years in a more senior technical role
• Proven track record of designing and delivering medium‑scale software projects
• Proficiency in multiple programming languages such as Java, Python, C++, and web service design
• Strong understanding of software architecture principles, design patterns, and best practices
• Experience with cloud computing platforms (e.g., AWS, Azure, GCP) and microservices architecture
• Proficiency in Agile methodologies and Dev Ops practices
• Demonstrated proficiency in performance optimization and scalability design for high‑traffic applications
• Experience with CI/CD pipelines and automated testing frameworks
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills with attention to detail
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to influence cross‑functional teams
• Deep knowledge of web application development and enterprise software solutions
• Exposure to project management and experience in driving technical initiatives

• Pay ranges and factors such as education, experience, performance, geographic location, shift, and internal and external equity are considered in determining salary within the range.
• The salary range reflects the range of possible compensation for this role at the time of posting and may be adjusted for different locations.
• Non‑exempt employees are eligible for overtime pay per company policy; shift differentials may also apply.
• Eligible for bonuses under Western Digital’s Short Term Incentive Plan (STI) or Sales Incentive Plan (SIP). Long‑Term Incentive program may also apply for eligible employees.
• Comprehensive benefit package includes paid vacation and sick leave, medical/dental/vision insurance, life and disability insurance, flexible and health savings accounts, employee assistance program, tuition reimbursement, transit, employee stock purchase plan, and 401(k) plan.
• Note:
  
  Pay and bonuses are determined at the Company’s discretion and become earned only when vested and the applicable terms are met.

Western Digital is committed to providing equal opportunities to all applicants and employees and will not discriminate based on race, color, ancestry, religion, sex, gender, age, national origin, sexual orientation, medical condition, marital status, physical disability, mental disability, or other protected characteristics. We prohibit harassment and comply with all relevant laws and regulations.

Western Digital offers accommodations for candidates with disabilities. Contact  with details of requested accommodations, the job title, and requisition number.

Final date to receive applications: 03-01-2026 (subject to earlier closure if the position is filled).