Staff Security Firmware Test Developer

About the role

At SK Hynix Memory Solution, we're at the forefront of semiconductor innovation, developing advanced memory solutions that power everything from smartphones to data centers. As a global leader in DRAM and NAND flash technologies, we drive the evolution of advancing mobile technology, empowering cloud computing, and pioneering future technologies. Our cutting-edge memory technologies are essential in today's most advanced electronic devices and IT infrastructure, enabling enhanced performance and user experiences across the digital landscape.

Responsibilities

• Lead end-to-end security validation for enterprise NVMe SSD firmware — from architecture review to production sign-off — ensuring compliance with Secure Boot, TCG OPAL, SPDM Firmware Attestation, Caliptra 2.1, and OCP NVMe Security Requirements.
• Design, build, and maintain automated test frameworks that validate security features across FPGA and ASIC platforms, enabling rapid regression and continuous integration.
• Debug and root-cause complex security failures — working closely with firmware, hardware, and security architects to resolve issues at the protocol or implementation level.
• Define and execute test strategies that prove “secure by design” — not just functional correctness, but cryptographic integrity, attestation, and tamper resistance.
• Own test coverage and quality gates for security-critical features — ensuring no release ships without passing validation against defined security specs.
• Stay ahead of evolving standards — actively track and implement upcoming TCG Storage Spec Requirements and other industry security mandates.
• Collaborate cross-functionally with firmware, hardware, and security teams — translating specs into testable requirements and driving alignment on security validation outcomes.

Qualifications

• Minimum Qualifications:
• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or related field — or equivalent practical experience in firmware or embedded security.
• 5+ years of hands-on experience validating security features in firmware or embedded systems — specifically in NVMe SSDs, storage controllers, or similar hardware platforms.
• Proven experience validating at least 3 of the following:
• Secure Boot (UEFI/TPM/Bootloader)
• TCG OPAL (Self-Encrypting Drive)
• SPDM (Firmware Attestation)
• Caliptra 2.1 (or equivalent hardware root of trust)
• OCP NVMe Security Requirements
• TCG Storage Spec Requirements (upcoming or current)
• Strong experience building and maintaining automated test frameworks for firmware or hardware validation — with scripting (Python, Java, Bash, C) and CI/CD integration.
• Experience debugging low-level firmware/hardware issues — using tools like JTAG, logic analyzers, or firmware logs — with ability to trace failures across protocol layers.
• Working knowledge of NVMe protocol, PCIe, and storage security standards — with ability to read and implement test cases from specs.
• Experience working with FPGA or ASIC platforms — validating firmware behavior in pre-silicon or post-silicon environments.
• Strong ownership mindset — able to define test strategy, drive quality gates, and ensure security validation is not an afterthought, but built into the design.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with formal security certification processes (e.g., FIPS 140-3, Common Criteria, ISO 27001, or similar).
• Hands-on experience with Caliptra 2.1 or similar RISC-V-based hardware root of trust architectures.
• Experience with SPDM or similar attestation protocols in production firmware.
• Contributions to open-source security test frameworks or industry standards (e.g., TCG, OCP, NVM Express).
• Experience with security validation in cloud-scale storage environments (e.g., hyperscale data centers, enterprise storage arrays).
• Strong communication skills — able to present technical findings to engineering leadership and security compliance teams.

Compensation

$110,000-$155,000

Regarding Compensation

SK hynix memory solutions America Inc. offers you the opportunity to apply your skills to exciting projects while working with innovative teams. Our compensation package is complimented by a generous benefits package including medical, dental, vision, life insurance and a company 401(k) match, as well as cafeteria, onsite gym and much more. If you are motivated by technical challenges, we offer a collaborative work environment that encourages career growth.

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