Okay, I've searched for Diagnostic Software Engineer roles in Sunnyvale, CA, requiring 2+ years of experience, proficiency in C/C++ and Python, and a Bachelor's or Master's degree in Electrical or Computer Engineering. I have found 73 positions for you.

Sure. Here's the analysis:

Job Analysis:

The Diagnostic Software Engineer role is fundamentally about bridging hardware and software to ensure robust, reliable manufacturing and validation of new hardware products. This engineer is expected to develop diagnostic software that not only tests and validates hardware during bring-up but also supports ongoing production testing and debugging to optimize yields. Collaboration across cross-functional teams—from design through to production release—implies working closely with hardware engineers, test teams, and software developers to create effective diagnostic routines. The emphasis on low-level hardware access through protocols like JTAG, SPI, and I2C highlights the need for deep understanding of embedded systems and digital circuit behavior. Proficiency in C/C++ and Python is essential as these languages enable developing performant tests and automation scripts, while familiarity with Linux and development tools supports efficient debugging and deployment in embedded environments. The ideal candidate faces challenges such as navigating hardware complexities from schematics to failure modes, writing reliable diagnostics under tight timelines, and iteratively improving test strategies for production scalability. Success in this role is reflected by the ability to deliver stable, well-documented diagnostic software that confidently identifies hardware issues before and during manufacturing, reducing defects and downtime, and contributing to a streamlined production process.

Company Analysis:

Nokia positions itself as a global technology leader in telecommunications network infrastructure, blending traditional hardware innovation with cloud-enabled digital transformation. This role lies within the Network Infrastructure group, emphasizing the company’s commitment to reliability and high-capacity networks that serve critical societal needs, particularly highlighted during contemporary challenges like the pandemic. Nokia’s culture prioritizes inclusion, innovation, and authentic collaboration, creating an environment where diverse ideas and risk-taking are encouraged. This culture supports individuals who want to grow technically while contributing meaningfully to global connectivity challenges. The Diagnostic Software Engineer role aligns strategically with Nokia's mission to build better networks by ensuring hardware products meet stringent quality and functionality standards. As such, the position likely offers significant visibility within engineering teams and interfaces with leadership aiming to push network capabilities forward. The company’s reputation as an ethical, inclusive employer with a focus on sustainable technological advancement suggests the role offers stability and meaningful purpose, while also demanding adaptability and continuous learning. Overall, a candidate succeeding here will need to be both technically adept and culturally aligned to Nokia’s values of respect, inclusion, and fearless innovation.

Absolutely. Here are some mock interview questions that could come up:

• Behavioral: Tell me about a time when you had to debug a complex hardware-software integration issue. How did you approach it and what was the outcome?
• Behavioral: Describe an experience where you collaborated with cross-functional teams to develop or improve a technical solution. How did you manage communication and differing priorities?
• Behavioral: Give an example of when you identified a failure mode in a product during testing. How did you investigate and resolve the issue?
• Behavioral: How do you stay motivated and productive when faced with repetitive debugging or regression testing tasks?
• Technical: Explain your approach to writing diagnostic software that directly interfaces with embedded hardware peripherals. What are key considerations?
• Technical: How would you design a regression test suite to ensure the reliability of diagnostic routines over multiple hardware revisions?
• Technical: Can you walk me through how you would use protocols like JTAG or SPI to access and test embedded controllers?
• Technical: Describe your experience working with Linux development environments and debugging tools in the context of embedded systems.
• Situational: Imagine the production line is reporting intermittent failures that the current diagnostic software does not catch. How would you investigate and improve the diagnostics?
• Situational: If you discover that a newly developed diagnostic tool is causing unexpected delays in the manufacturing process, what steps would you take to resolve the issue?
• Situational: Suppose you need to onboard a junior engineer unfamiliar with embedded diagnostics. How would you ensure they become effective quickly?
• Company Fit/Motivation: What attracts you to Nokia and this Diagnostic Software Engineer role specifically?
• Company Fit/Motivation: How do you see your personal values aligning with Nokia's emphasis on inclusion, respect, and fearless innovation?
• Company Fit/Motivation: Nokia is focused on network infrastructure critical to society. How does contributing to this mission influence your interest and commitment?
• Questions to ask the interviewer: Can you describe how the diagnostic software team interacts with hardware design and manufacturing teams here?
• Questions to ask the interviewer: What are the biggest challenges that the diagnostic software function is currently facing, and what initiatives are underway to address them?
• Questions to ask the interviewer: How does Nokia support continuous learning and professional growth for engineers working in embedded diagnostics?