Overview:
DDN Storage is seeking great candidates to join our dynamic team of passionate customer-enabling technologists!
This is an incredible opportunity to be part of a company that has been at the forefront of AI and high-performance data storage innovation for over two decades. DDN Storage is a global market leader renowned for powering many of the world's most demanding AI data centers, in industries ranging from life sciences and healthcare to financial services, autonomous cars, Government, academia, research and manufacturing.
"DDN's A3I solutions are transforming the landscape of AI infrastructure." – IDC
“The real differentiator is DDN. I never hesitate to recommend DDN. DDN is the de facto name for AI Storage in high performance environments” - ~ Marc Hamilton VP, Solutions Architecture & Engineering | NVIDIA
DDN Storage is the global leader in AI and multi-cloud data management at scale. Our cutting-edge data intelligence platform is designed to accelerate AI workloads, enabling organizations to extract maximum value from their data. With a proven track record of performance, reliability, and scalability, DDN Storage empowers businesses to tackle the most challenging AI and data-intensive workloads with confidence.
Our success is driven by our unwavering commitment to innovation, customer-centricity, and a team of passionate professionals who bring their expertise and dedication to every project. This is a chance to make a significant impact at a company that is shaping the future of AI and data management.
Our commitment to innovation, customer success, and market leadership makes this an exciting and rewarding role for a driven professional looking to make a lasting impact in the world of AI and data storage.
Job Description:
DataDirect Networks, Inc. (DDN) is seeking a Firmware Architect.
This is a remote position and reports to the Sr. Director - Flash Products.
DataDirect Networks, Inc. (DDN) is seeking a Firmware Architect to lead the design and development of advanced firmware solutions for next-generation flash storage products. With 15+ years of experience in embedded systems and firmware development, the ideal candidate will play a critical role in the architecture, design, and delivery of enterprise-class storage systems that support AI, HPC, and cloud environments. The Firmware Architect will leverage deep technical expertise in flash and non-volatile memory technologies to guide innovation and ensure high performance and scalability across DDN’s product portfolio.
Key Responsibilities:
Lead the architectural design and development of embedded firmware for cutting-edge flash storage products, ensuring high performance, reliability, and scalability in AI and HPC environments.
Collaborate with cross-functional teams—including product management, hardware, and software engineering—to define product specifications and deliver optimal firmware solutions.
Provide hands-on technical leadership in the architecture, design, and implementation of world-class non-volatile storage devices.
Design and implement complex firmware solutions that integrate seamlessly with hardware and software systems, ensuring product performance and quality.
Drive firmware development across all phases of the product lifecycle, from concept through production, with a strong focus on innovation and continuous improvement.
Identify and troubleshoot firmware issues to optimize system performance and reliability.
Participate in and influence DDN’s product roadmaps by aligning firmware architecture with the latest technological advancements in storage systems and AI workflows.
Mentor and guide junior engineers and technical staff to foster a culture of knowledge-sharing and technical excellence.
Engage in agile development processes and utilize tools such as Jira to track, manage, and deliver firmware development tasks.
Stay current with industry trends in flash storage and non-volatile memory technologies, bringing innovative ideas to enhance DDN’s storage systems.
Represent the firmware team in technical discussions, program management meetings, and industry events, advocating for cutting-edge solutions and driving product success.
Qualifications:
Bachelor’s degree in computer science, electrical engineering, or a related field; a master’s degree or MBA is preferred.
15+ years of experience in embedded systems and firmware development, with a focus on storage systems and non-volatile memory technologies.
Extensive experience in architecting and developing firmware for NAND flash, SSDs, and other storage solutions.
Strong hands-on experience with low-level firmware debugging and system performance optimization.
Proven track record of delivering high-performance, enterprise-quality storage products.
Expertise in agile development methodologies, with proficiency in using Jira for task management and tracking.
Excellent communication and collaboration skills, with the ability to lead cross-functional teams and influence product direction.
Demonstrated ability to mentor junior engineers and drive technical innovation.
Experience with high-performance file systems and clustered storage environments is highly desirable.
DDN:
Our team is highly motivated and focused on engineering excellence.
We look for individuals who appreciate challenging themselves and thrive on curiosity.
Engineers are encouraged to work across multiple areas of the company.
We operate with a flat organizational structure.
All employees are expected to be hands-on and to contribute directly to the company’s mission.
Leadership is given to those who show initiative and consistently deliver excellence. Work ethic and strong prioritization skills are important.
All engineers and researchers are expected to have strong communication skills.
They should be able to concisely and accurately share knowledge with their teammates.
Interview Process: After submitting your application, the team reviews your CV and statement of exceptional work. If your application passes this stage, you will be invited to a 30-minute interview (“phone interview”) during which a member of our team will ask some basic questions. If you clear the initial phone interview, you will enter the main process, which consists of four technical interviews:
Coding assessment in a language of your choice.
Systems design: Translate high-level requirements into a scalable, fault-tolerant service.
Systems hands-on: Demonstrate practical skills in a live problem-solving session.
Project deep-dive: Present your past exceptional work to a small audience.
Meet and greet with the wider team.
Our goal is to finish the main process within one week.
We don’t rely on recruiters for assessments.
Every application is reviewed by a member of our technical team.
DataDirect Networks, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity, gender expression, transgender, sex stereotyping, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, protected Veteran Status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.
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