Free Software Foundation Hiring Engineering & Certification Manager – Fully Remote | Salary: $83,034/Year
Overview
The Free Software Foundation (FSF) is hiring an Engineering and Certification Manager to help lead its Respects Your Freedom (RYF) certification programme and advance work on computer user freedom. The FSF is a Massachusetts-based nonprofit with a worldwide mission to promote the freedom of computer users to use, study, copy, modify and redistribute software. The role reports to the Executive Director and is a senior technical authority. It suits an experienced professional with expertise in hardware systems, firmware, reverse engineering and free software principles.
RYF evaluates hardware products against certification requirements that protect users' freedom and control over their devices. The manager develops the programme's technical and strategic direction, manages relationships with vendors, community members and partner organisations, oversees product submissions and certification reviews, conducts hands-on technical assessments, ensures decisions are complete and well documented, represents the FSF in technical communication and public engagement, and supports other initiatives. They work with the FSF's management, technology and licensing teams.
Who can apply
The FSF looks for about 7 to 10 years of relevant experience, a strong engineering background with hardware and software systems and an understanding of how devices work beyond advertised specifications. Experience examining boot processes, analysing firmware and reverse engineering is valuable, as is comfort working with incomplete technical information and asking detailed questions about user control. Skills include hardware architecture, firmware, free software principles, FSF licensing guidance, technical issue management, coordination across technical, legal and licensing teams, and judging whether software can be built with free software tools. Clear written and verbal communication is important.
What you get
The salary is $83,034 per year, and the post is a union role. Benefits include flexible remote work, individual or family health coverage, subsidised dental insurance, four weeks of paid vacation, 17 paid holidays, public transportation reimbursement, a 403(b) with employer matching, annual cost-of-living increases, healthcare expense reimbursement, ergonomic equipment support, conference travel, professional development and a possible annual bonus. The position is ideally full-time and US-based, though exceptions may be made.
How to apply
Applicants email a cover letter, resume and three samples of technical achievement, such as code, hardware schematics or PCB designs, with the subject line Engineering and Certification Manager. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.