Micron's Firmware & Product Test (FPT) team is hiring a Staff Engineer to lead validation strategy for enterprise SSD firmware. In this role, you'll architect next-generation test frameworks, drive AI/ML-powered validation methodologies, and own end-to-end verification of complex NVMe front-end features across multiple product lines. You'll serve as a technical authority at the intersection of firmware validation and applied machine learning - shaping the strategic direction of our test infrastructure, mentoring engineers, and influencing firmware architecture decisions through deep validation insights. The FPT team builds verification plans in Python, enforces NVMe and security protocol compliance, and executes white-box, grey-box, and black-box testing across simulation, FPGA, and prototype hardware environments. Responsibilities • Lead the design and execution of firmware verification strategies for customer specifications and NVMe protocols, owning validation of complex front-end features (SMART, Trim, Get Log Page, OCP) across multiple product lines. • Architect scalable grey-box, white-box, and black-box test frameworks that become organizational standards for firmware quality. • Drive root-cause analysis for critical field and regression failures; establish systematic debug methodologies and knowledge-sharing practices across the team. • Own the test infrastructure roadmap - including automation frameworks, CI/CD integration, and reporting dashboards - and influence tooling decisions at the department level. • Design and deploy AI/ML solutions for test optimization, intelligent failure triage, predictive analytics, anomaly detection, and test prioritization. • Lead code reviews, define test coverage standards, and drive continuous improvement in code quality and test effectiveness. • Present technical findings, risk assessments, and strategic recommendations to senior leadership and cross-functional stakeholders. • Mentor junior and mid-level engineers, providing technical guidance and fostering a culture of engineering excellence. • Collaborate with firmware architects, product managers, and customers to define testability requirements and influence firmware architecture decisions. Basic Qualifications • Bachelor's degree with ~8+ years of relevant experience, Master's with ~6+ years, or PhD with ~4+ years in Computer Science, Data Science, Electrical/Computer Engineering, or a related field. • Expert-level Python proficiency, including strong command of NumPy, pandas, and scikit-learn, with a track record of building production-quality automation frameworks. • Deep expertise in test architecture, automation strategy, and validation methodologies, with proven success designing scalable test solutions. • Demonstrated experience applying ML models to real-world problems - designing, training, and deploying models for test optimization or failure analysis. • Proven ability to lead technical initiatives, influence without authority, and drive alignment across teams. • Excellent communication skills, with the ability to convey complex technical concepts to diverse audiences including senior leadership. Preferred Qualifications • Proficiency with ML frameworks such as TensorFlow or PyTorch, plus experience with MLOps practices. • Track record of implementing AI/ML solutions in production testing or validation environments. • Experience leveraging AI/Generative AI tools to improve engineering productivity, test automation, data analysis, and problem solving. Familiarity with Python-based AI/ML frameworks and responsible use of AI technologies is highly desirable. • Deep understanding of embedded systems, firmware architecture, and hardware-software interfaces. • Working knowledge of storage industry standards (NVMe, PCIe, OCP) at the specification level. • Familiarity with NAND flash memory architecture and SSD firmware validation methodologies. • Proficiency with Rust or C for firmware code comprehension, plus Linux/Windows system administration and Git/CI/CD pipelines. • Contributions to open-source projects, patents, or published technical work. • Experience leading cross-functional initiatives or small teams. As a world leader in the semiconductor industry, Micron is dedicated to your personal wellbeing and professional growth. Micron benefits are designed to help you stay well, provide peace of mind and help you prepare for the future. We offer a choice of medical, dental and vision plans in all locations enabling team members to select the plans that best meet their family healthcare needs and budget. Micron also provides benefit programs that help protect your income if you are unable to work due to illness or injury, and paid family leave. Additionally, Micron benefits include a robust paid time-off program and paid holidays. For additional information regarding the Benefit programs available, please see the Benefits Guide posted on micron.com/careers/benefits.