Firmware Validation Engineer at Horizontal Talent Firmware Validation Engineer at Horizontal Talent in Foster City, California Posted in 1 day ago. $76.00 - $110.00 per hour Join a hands-on firmware validation team focused on connected in-cabin audio and streaming experiences for next-generation vehicle platforms. This onsite role in Foster City, CA offers the opportunity to drive test quality, strengthen coverage, and help resolve issues that impact real-world user experiences. Responsibilities Perform manual validation across functional, integration, regression, and exploratory test scenarios for audio and streaming features in both bench and vehicle environments. Develop and maintain test cases and related documentation as product functionality evolves. Identify coverage gaps and expand test coverage to improve overall validation confidence. Investigate defects by reproducing issues, collecting logs, and using diagnostic tools to help isolate root cause. Support first-line triage for field-reported issues, working with cross-functional partners to narrow down problems and drive resolution. Manage defects in JIRA with clear reproduction steps, supporting evidence, severity context, and follow-up verification. Maintain test benches, in-vehicle rigs, and diagnostic setups so they remain ready for ongoing release cycles. Collaborate closely with firmware, product, integration, and fleet support teams to align on readiness and priority. Skills Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or a related field. 8+ years of hands-on validation or QA experience for firmware or embedded systems. Experience writing and executing test plans and test cases with a strong focus on quality and coverage. Background in at least one connectivity area such as Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, cellular, GNSS, or vehicle networking. Strong troubleshooting and log analysis skills using tools such as Wireshark, DLT, ADB, Bluetooth/HCI traces, and vehicle logs. Experience reproducing, isolating, and triaging issues from lab or field environments. Python scripting skills to automate repetitive tasks or parse logs. Comfort working in Linux/Ubuntu environments and using JIRA/Confluence in agile workflows. Preferred Skills Experience with in-cabin entertainment or media casting technologies. Hands-on Bluetooth validation experience, including pairing, A2DP, HFP, and AVRCP workflows. Broader familiarity with wireless connectivity technologies. Exposure to autonomous vehicle or robotaxi fleet environments. Horizontal Talent is committed to building an inclusive workplace where people of all backgrounds, perspectives, and experiences are welcomed and valued. We support diversity, equity, and inclusion as part of our core hiring philosophy and encourage qualified candidates to apply. By applying for this position, you acknowledge and agree that Horizontal Talent may contact you regarding your application using automated technology, including phone calls, SMS/text messages, or email, which may be delivered by our virtual AI recruiter, Alex. Please apply through this online posting or by visiting our Job Board at www.horizontaltalent.com/job-board. Applications will be accepted for 4 weeks. For those that join the team, we offer competitive compensation and benefits including medical, dental, vision, and retirement. Check out all we have to offer and how you can become part of the Horizontal Talent Team. The pay range for this role is $76 - $110 per hour based on qualifications and experience.