Senior FPGA Design Engineer

Responsibilities

Kforce has a client that is seeking a Senior FPGA Design Engineer in San Jose, CA.

Summary:

A technology-focused organization is seeking a highly skilled FPGA and Hardware Development Engineer to lead the design and implementation of FPGA and embedded processor solutions for advanced optics systems. This role involves defining system-level requirements, developing embedded hardware architecture, and delivering high-performance, real-time digital designs. The ideal candidate will be self-motivated, hands‑on, and thrive in a dynamic, hardware-centric engineering environment.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead the complete FPGA and embedded processor development lifecycle, from concept through implementation, for high-performance optics systems
• Design and implement FPGA architectures using Verilog HDL, perform simulations, develop test benches, and execute timing analysis to ensure functional and performance validation
• Integrate FPGA logic with embedded processors and associated subsystems, including the development of custom communication protocols and interfaces
• Design embedded processor boards, including component selection, schematic capture, digital circuit design, and printed circuit board (PCB) layout
• Create and execute detailed hardware test plans for board bring‑up, system debugging, and performance optimization
• Maintain comprehensive technical documentation, including design specifications, test procedures, and verification reports
• Contribute to cross‑functional hardware system architecture and design reviews
• Collaborate closely with electrical, systems, and software engineers to meet technology, performance, and timeline goals
• Develop and support a robust FPGA development environment and collaborate with Dev Ops to enhance build, release, and test automation processes

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or a related discipline; a Master’s degree is preferred, particularly with a focus on optics, digital signal processing, or related areas
• At least 8 years of professional experience in FPGA and embedded systems development
• Experience in implementing signal processing algorithms and fixed‑point arithmetic techniques
• Experience working with high‑speed differential data and serial peripheral interfaces
• Competence in schematic capture and PCB design tools, particularly Altium Designer; experience with complex, high‑density multi‑layer board designs is preferred
• Deep understanding of digital design principles with expertise in Verilog HDL, synthesis, and timing closure
• Familiarity with embedded processor integration and real‑time operating systems
• Proficiency with FPGA development platforms such as Lattice (preferred), Xilinx, or equivalent
• Proficiency in scripting languages, with a preference for Python; experience in developing C/C++ or Python‑based libraries for hardware systems is advantageous
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving abilities across both hardware and software domains
• Effective communicator with the ability to collaborate across interdisciplinary engineering teams
• Proven capability in designing and integrating low‑level hardware interfaces (LVDS, MIPI, SPI, I2C, and custom)
• Knowledge of optical system architecture and implementation is highly desirable
• Experience with optical testing and characterization is a significant plus

The pay range is the lowest to highest compensation we reasonably in good faith believe we would pay at posting for this role. We may ultimately pay more or less than this range. Employee pay is based on factors like relevant education, qualifications, certifications, experience, skills, seniority, location, performance, union contract and business needs. This range may be modified in the future.

We offer comprehensive benefits including medical/dental/vision insurance, HSA, FSA, 401(k), and life, disability & ADD insurance to eligible employees. Salaried personnel receive paid time off. Hourly employees are not eligible for paid time off unless required by law. Hourly employees on a Service Contract Act project are eligible for paid sick leave.

Note:

Pay is not considered compensation until it is earned, vested…