Senior FPGA Architect, Control Systems

Responsibilities

• Develop and improve a custom microprocessor responsible for waveform generation and critical logic to operate a quantum computer
• Work closely with hardware, firmware, and software teams to define architecture, data flow, and interfaces.
• Implement, simulate, and verify designs including DSP pipelines, control logic, and high-speed I/O.
• Optimize designs for latency, resource utilization, and robustness in production environments.
• Develop and maintain test benches, verification flows, and CI.
• Support bring-up, lab validation, and debugging in collaboration with Quantum Engineering on actual quantum computers.
• Contribute to the long-term roadmap for the architecture of Rigetti’s control systems.

• Bachelor's degree or higher in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or related field, or equivalent practical experience.
• 7+ years of experience in FPGA design and development for complex mixed signal systems.
• Experience architecting a new design from the ground‑up.
• Proficiency in Verilog and/or VHDL, along with experience using an industry‑standard FPGA toolchain (Xilinx, Intel/Altera, or similar).
• Strong understanding of at least one of processor architecture design (memory bandwidth, caches, instruction decoding latency, etc.) and/or digital signal processing (filter design and implementation, IIR, FIR, FFT, polyphase filters, multi‑rate systems).
• Experience with high‑speed serial interfaces (e.g., PCIe, JESD, SERDES).
• Solid understanding of digital design fundamentals: timing closure, CDC, reset strategies, resource utilization, and verification.
• Experience collaborating on cross‑functional teams.

• Experience with RF/microwave or mixed‑signal systems
• Familiarity with ASIC design
• Experience with real‑time control systems, data acquisition, or instrumentation.
• Exposure to quantum computing, test and measurement equipment, and the scientific python stack.

$155,000 - $190,000 a year

Rigetti complies with all local and state regulations in regards to displaying salary ranges. Final compensation for this role will be determined by various factors such as a candidate’s relevant work experience, skills, and geographic location.

Rigetti offers a full slate of benefits from competitive salaries, equity, medical, dental and vision for employees as well as a 401(k) plan, a paid parental leave program, rejuvenation days, and a vacation policy that aligns with local regulations and industry standards.

As engineering leaders, we value diversity and are committed to building a culture of inclusion to attract and engage innovative thinkers. Our technology, meant to serve all of humanity, cannot succeed if those who built it do not mirror the diversity of the communities we serve. Applications from women, minorities, and other under‑represented groups are encouraged.

Rigetti is committed to full compliance with applicable anti‑discrimination laws. We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We strive to create an inclusive work environment and will not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.

We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.