Design and implement high-performance FPGA firmware for electronic warfare sensor systems, translating algorithmic models from MATLAB into efficient, timing-critical RTL code. Work within a collaborative engineering environment to deliver robust digital signal processing solutions for mission-critical government applications.
Key Responsibilities
- Architect and develop FPGA-based DSP systems for RF sensing and software-defined radio platforms deployed across air, space, and ground environments.
- Convert algorithmic specifications into synthesizable HDL using VHDL or Verilog, ensuring designs meet timing, resource utilization, and functional accuracy requirements.
- Simulate and verify logic behavior using tools such as Xilinx Vivado, ModelSim, and QuestaSim, creating comprehensive testbenches to validate system performance.
- Analyze high-speed digital schematics and integrate FPGA-centric subsystems, ensuring compliance with interface standards including JESD204B, PCIe, and LVDS.
- Collaborate with hardware and systems engineers to debug and optimize firmware during lab and field testing phases.
- Generate design constraints, timing reports, and configuration documentation to support full development lifecycle traceability.
- Lead component selection efforts by evaluating emerging FPGA and SoC technologies on prototype boards, defining specifications for next-generation systems.
- Support integration activities at remote sites when necessary, including limited travel for field testing and deployment support.
- Provide regular progress updates to project leadership and contribute to test planning, requirements definition, and technical reviews.
Qualifications
Candidates must hold an active US Secret clearance and be able to work full time at the Arlington, VA location. A Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or a related discipline is required, along with a minimum of four years of hands-on FPGA development experience.
- Proficiency with Xilinx Vivado, AMD/Xilinx Ultrascale+, Versal, and Altera Agilex/MCP toolchains is essential.
- Strong working knowledge of HDLs (VHDL/Verilog), MATLAB, and FPGA synthesis workflows including timing closure and resource optimization.
- Experience implementing DSP functions such as FFTs, digital filters, modulators, and adaptive algorithms in modular RTL designs.
- Familiarity with high-speed interfaces, SERDES blocks, PLLs, and embedded processing subsystems in SoC devices.
- Skilled in using logic analyzers, oscilloscopes, and spectrum analyzers for hardware validation and debugging.
Preferred Background
- Experience writing low-level test software in C/C++ or assembly for firmware validation.
- Background in radiation-hardened or space-qualified FPGA design for aerospace and defense systems.
- Knowledge of thermal management strategies for conduction-cooled, high-altitude electronic assemblies.
- ARM or RISC-V based embedded firmware development within FPGA SoC environments.
- Ability to obtain TS/SCI clearance.
Work Environment & Benefits
This is an onsite role in Arlington, VA, offering flexible work schedules and a technically driven culture focused on innovation in electronic warfare. The organization supports continuous learning through education assistance, technical upskilling programs, and access to discounted stock purchase plans.
Additional benefits include 401K with 6% company match and immediate vesting, generous paid time off (4+ weeks), 11 paid holidays, and parental leave. Engineers are encouraged to stay current with evolving technologies and contribute to cutting-edge defense systems that impact national security.
