Experienced Systems Software Engineer for Edge Server Appliances and Cloud Gaming Platforms – Linux, OpenBMC, and Firmware Development

Introduction to Netflix and Open Connect

Netflix is a pioneering entertainment service that has revolutionized the way people consume TV series, films, and games worldwide. With over 300 million paid memberships in more than 190 countries, our platform offers an unparalleled viewing experience, allowing members to play, pause, and resume watching their favorite content anytime, anywhere. Open Connect (OC), a critical group within Netflix, is responsible for building and managing a content delivery network (CDN) that delivers all of Netflix's streaming video. In addition to streaming video, we work on innovative projects that leverage physical infrastructure, such as our Cloud Games initiative. As a key player in the internet ecosystem, Open Connect accounts for approximately 15% of all downstream traffic volume across the entire internet, making our edge cache servers a vital component of our infrastructure.

About the Role

We are seeking a highly motivated and experienced Systems Software Engineer to join our team, focusing on enhancing and maintaining the edge server appliances used for cloud gaming and streaming video. As a Systems Software Engineer, you will have the opportunity to make a significant impact on a critical area of our business, working on complex technical problems, and collaborating with cross-functional partners to root cause and resolve HW/SW issues. Your expertise in developing and maintaining OpenBMC and Linuxboot firmware, as well as your experience in automating debugging processes, will be essential in ensuring the efficiency and security of our edge servers.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and maintain OpenBMC and Linuxboot firmware, aligning closely with upstream and backporting necessary fixes to ensure the stability and security of our edge servers.
• Identify and work with cross-functional partners to root cause and provide resolution to HW/SW issues, leveraging your expertise in debugging Linux/FreeBSD kernel issues and resolving complex hardware/software interactions.
• Design and develop system tools and utilities to facilitate efficient debugging of new hardware components, including tools for facilitating testing new drives and debugging hardware issues in the server fleet.
• Collaborate with internal stakeholders and vendors to integrate and optimize new hardware systems, ensuring seamless integration and optimal performance.
• Improve the testing processes for new features to ensure robustness and reliable performance, leveraging your experience in debugging issues during board bring-up and integrating new hardware systems.

Essential Qualifications

• 8+ years of experience writing, debugging, and managing embedded systems software stack, with a strong focus on Linux and OpenBMC firmware development.
• Experience in automating debugging processes for software and firmware stacks to enhance efficiency and accuracy, using tools such as C/C++ and scripting languages.
• Proven track record in debugging Linux/FreeBSD kernel issues and resolving complex hardware/software interactions, with a strong understanding of system internals and hardware specifications.
• Demonstrated experience in debugging issues during board bring-up and integrating new hardware systems, with a focus on collaboration and effective communication.
• Proficiency in C/C++, with a strong understanding of software development principles and best practices.

Preferred Qualifications

• Proficiency in developing and maintaining OpenBMC firmware stack with strong understanding of upstream alignment and backporting necessary fixes.
• Experience with LinuxBoot and expertise with either u-root or TianoCore, with a focus on firmware development and system boot processes.
• Proven track record with kernel development, with a strong understanding of system internals and hardware specifications.
• Expertise in successfully implementing TPMs/HSMs, trusted execution environments, and other hardware features for real-world applications, with a focus on security and system integrity.
• Expertise in developing or applying operating system execution environments such as containers or virtual machines for automation and security, with a focus on system optimization and performance.
• Proficiency in Golang, Python, and other scripting languages, with a focus on automation and tool development.

Career Growth Opportunities and Learning Benefits

At Netflix, we offer a unique and dynamic work environment that fosters growth, learning, and innovation. As a Systems Software Engineer, you will have the opportunity to work on complex technical problems, collaborate with cross-functional partners, and develop your skills in areas such as firmware development, system debugging, and automation. Our culture values freedom, responsibility, and self-direction, allowing you to take ownership of your projects and drive innovation. With a strong focus on learning and development, we provide opportunities for professional growth, mentorship, and knowledge sharing, ensuring that you stay up-to-date with the latest technologies and industry trends.

Work Environment and Company Culture

Netflix is a company that values diversity, inclusion, and creativity, with a strong focus on collaboration, innovation, and employee satisfaction. Our work environment is dynamic, fast-paced, and challenging, with a focus on delivering high-quality products and services to our members. We offer a range of benefits, including comprehensive health plans, mental health support, 401(k) retirement plans, stock option programs, and paid leave of absence programs, ensuring that our employees are supported and empowered to do their best work. With a strong commitment to diversity and inclusion, we strive to create a workplace that is welcoming, inclusive, and respectful of all employees, regardless of their background, culture, or identity.

Compensation, Perks, and Benefits

Our compensation structure consists solely of an annual salary, with a range of $100,000 - $620,000 for this role, depending on your experience, skills, and qualifications. We also offer a range of benefits, including comprehensive health plans, mental health support, 401(k) retirement plans, stock option programs, and paid leave of absence programs, ensuring that our employees are supported and empowered to do their best work. With a strong focus on work-life balance, we offer flexible time off, allowing you to take the time you need to recharge and pursue your passions.

Conclusion

If you are a motivated and experienced Systems Software Engineer looking for a challenging and rewarding role, we encourage you to apply for this opportunity. With a strong focus on innovation, collaboration, and employee satisfaction, Netflix offers a unique and dynamic work environment that fosters growth, learning, and creativity. Join our team and contribute to the development of our edge server appliances and cloud gaming platforms, helping to shape the future of entertainment and streaming technology. Apply now and take the first step towards an exciting and rewarding career at Netflix!