Junior Firmware Engineer – OpenWrt Platform

San Jose, California

Linksys (Fortinet)

About the Role

You will develop and optimize firmware based on OpenWrt for networking devices such as routers and gateways. This role focuses on core networking functionality including routing, firewalling, VPNs, mesh networking, and QoS.

As a junior engineer, you will work closely with senior firmware engineers in a spec-first, test-driven environment. Your early work will focus on understanding the codebase, improving existing features, fixing bugs, and building confidence through well-scoped ownership.

This role is well-suited for recent graduates or early-career engineers who want to build strong foundations in embedded Linux and networking firmware.

Location Context

This role is based in San Jose, California, our primary firmware engineering hub. The San Jose office brings together platform, wireless, and security engineers, enabling close collaboration while still supporting deep specialization.

Key Responsibilities

• Implement and improve OpenWrt firmware features under senior guidance
• Work on routing, firewall, VPN, mesh networking, and QoS functionality
• Write clear technical specifications before implementation
• Develop and maintain automated tests using test-driven development practices
• Profile and improve performance (CPU, memory) on embedded Linux systems
• Debug firmware issues using logs, command-line tools, and network analyzers
• Participate in code reviews and collaborate with cross-functional teams
• Learn and apply safe, responsible AI-assisted development practices

Required Qualifications

• B.S. in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or related field (0–2 years experience)
• Proficiency in C programming
• Familiarity with Linux or embedded Linux environments
• Understanding of basic networking concepts (TCP/IP, DNS, HTTP)
• Ability to debug issues methodically and learn from existing code
• Comfort using Git and collaborating in a team environment

Nice-to-Have Skills

• Experience with OpenWrt, Buildroot, or Yocto
• Basic knowledge of Wi-Fi standards or mesh networking
• Scripting experience (Python or shell)
• Exposure to open-source projects

Engineering Culture

Our team follows three core development practices that you'll learn during onboarding:

Spec-First Development: Write specifications before coding. You'll learn to document your design approach and expected behavior before implementation, with senior engineer guidance.

Test-Driven Development: Write tests alongside code. You'll learn to create automated tests that validate your work and catch regressions early.

AI-Augmented Workflow: Use AI tools responsibly. You'll have access to AI coding assistants to help with research, code generation, and problem-solving—always with human validation.

AI Usage Expectations

We provide AI coding tools (GitHub Copilot, internal assistants) to boost productivity. As a junior engineer:

• You're encouraged to use AI for generating boilerplate code, researching solutions, and learning new concepts
• You're responsible for validating all AI-generated code through testing and code review—treat it like code from a peer
• Never include proprietary code or credentials in external AI prompts
• You must understand the code you commit—AI accelerates work but doesn't replace learning

We'll train you on safe AI usage practices (OWASP/NIST-aligned) during onboarding.

The US base salary range for this full-time position is $90,000-$160,000. Fortinet offers employees a variety of benefits, including medical, dental, vision, life and disability insurance, 401(k), 11 paid holidays, vacation time, and sick time, as well as a comprehensive leave program.

Wage ranges are based on various factors, including the labour market, job type, and job level. Exact salary offers will be determined by factors such as the candidate's subject knowledge, skill level, qualifications, experience, and geographic location.

All roles are eligible to participate in the Fortinet equity program. Bonus eligibility is reviewed at the time of hire and annually at the Company’s discretion.

Why Join Us:

We encourage candidates from all backgrounds and identities to apply. We offer a supportive work environment and a competitive Total Rewards package to support you with your overall health and financial well-being.

Embark on a challenging, enjoyable, and rewarding career journey with Fortinet. Join us in bringing solutions that make a meaningful and lasting impact to our 660,000+ customers around the globe.