The proficient firmware engineers code firmware, the exclusive software embedded inside the electronic device. They spend time to write code, debug, test and fulfil other designing tasks. They also work with experienced programmers as well as hardware designers for delivering codes according to the deadlines of the particular company. The scope of career advancement of these engineers is colossal. Especially the senior firmware engineers take up embedded c jobs in Europe or other countries for best remuneration and benefits. The following are the job description, remuneration and other relevant details of a firmware engineer. What does a firmware do? The firmware is programmable content of different digital hardware devices namely remote control, cellular phone, medical equipment that offer instructions to devices and help in their smooth operation. In fact, a firmware engineer develops as well as implements these essential instructions to allow the hardware to operate smoothly. They alter, systematise as well as model different software functionalities for multiple industries including medical care, automobiles as well as electronic industries. Depending on the norms of a particular industry, the working standard of this professional differs. Generally a qualified professional is associated with a laboratory or an office. When the engineer is associated with software consulting firm he or she may also has to interact with the clients and manages the important things. Qualification: The top engineering firms hire engineers who have bachelor’s degree in Mathematics or the Computer Science or Engineering or other relevant disciplines. Masters degree in the relevant field is an added advantage for the job applicant. In UK and in different countries of Europe, the universities or institutes also offer 4 year degree program. However the candidates can also pursue special certificate course that continues for two academic years. Additional certification programmes are available for the firmware engineers who wish to deal with particular products or dealers. Essential Skills: To develop firmware, the engineer requires advanced knowledge of computer programming language and other related subjects. Since firmware coding is done with help of C language or assembly language, the professional requires proper experience in dealing the computer languages that their employers use. Knowledge of signal processing methods and AVR controller and hardware circuits is advantageous. Debugging skills and experience in UPS industry; documenting relevant information such as test schedule; flow diagrams and project requirements are essential. Other requirements: The experienced firmware engineers handle firmware development both for small as well as medium sized embedded applications. They also integrate firmware with exclusive hardware boards in an independent manner. Understanding as well as maintaining firmware and also performing changes on the basis of field requirements is mandatory. In the year 2011, a famous job portal in the UK posted jobs for the firmware engineers who have familiarity with different computer languages widely used for computer application development and are proficient in C and C++ etc. As the technology evolves, special training on updated technology allows an engineer to gain advantage over the competitors. Prospective employers: A wide range of industries hire proficient firmware engineers. Companies who manufacture computers, laptops, hardware, electronic products, toys and vehicles require firmware for diverse products. The firmware engineers also work as freelance programmers and consultants. Remuneration and benefits: According to the recent survey conducted by a reputed organisation, the average salary of an engineer who is involved with firmware coding is more than £35,000 every year. They also get £8008 as a bonus. Outlook: As embedded computing equipment become smaller as well as cheaper, these devices are incorporated into other products. However each product with embedded processor requires exclusive embedded software that are designed as well as developed by the engineers. The demand for these engineers increases as market for these products grow. In the coming years, the job of these engineers will increase at lease forty to fifty percent. In addition, the salary of these engineers may increase upto £53,000 along with perks. In a nutshell, the firmware engineer with requisite qualification and experience enjoys a promising career. About the Author - Robin Thompson is a recruitment expert. He shares tips and advices on job vacancies in his blogs. He is also a freelance writer who writes on topics like embedded software engineer jobs. While writing on these topics he takes inspiration from www.redlinegroup.com.
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