Sr. FPGA Engineer I​/II

Overview

We are currently seeking a Sr. FPGA Engineer for a future opening to join our FPGA team based out of Long Beach, CA. This team supports our Space Systems division, and leads cutting-edge satellite programs for civil, commercial, and defense customers. As a Sr. FPGA Engineer, you will be responsible for development and verification of FPGA firmware designs for the avionics systems in our spacecraft programs.

You will work collaboratively with engineers of various disciplines and participate in all aspects of FPGA firmware design, from requirements definition to design, implementation, verification, and testing. As an engineer on the spacecraft development team, you will have frequent opportunities to test and operate your systems on-orbit. We are looking for people who are passionate about spacecraft electrical hardware design, with a willingness to learn in a fast-paced environment.

• Collaborate with other engineering disciplines in developing firmware architecture and requirements
• Design and verify FPGA firmware for Xilinx and Microchip FPGA and SoC devices
• Develop documentation for FPGA operation and interfacing with other SW and FPGA systems
• Participate in test campaigns, ranging from module-level to automated testing at the unit and system level

• Bachelor’s degree in electrical, computer, or software engineering; or other engineering degree
• 5+ years of experience with FPGA firmware development
• Proficiency in VHDL
• Strong understanding of FPGA design fundamentals and principles
• U.S. citizenship due to program requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in electrical, computer, or software engineering; or other engineering degree
• 8+ years of experience with FPGA firmware development
• Proficiency in VHDL
• Strong understanding of FPGA design fundamentals and principles
• U.S. citizenship due to program requirements

• Master’s or PhD degree in electrical, computer, or software engineering; or other engineering degrees
• Proficiency with Xilinx and Microchip devices and tools
• Proficiency with verification frameworks including UVM and VUnit
• Experience with software defined radios and DSP algorithms
• Experience with feedback control systems
• Experience with FPGAs and embedded systems in a radiation environment, including SEU/SEL impact and mitigation within spacecraft avionics
• Proficiency with concepts in signal integrity and digital timing with experience in digital worst case circuit analysis (DWCCA)
• Experience working with common interface protocols including SPI, UART, I2C, and CAN
• Experience working with high-speed interface protocols including GigE and PCIe
• Proficiency with embedded software
• Proficiency in reading PCB designs and schematics
• Proficiency with lab tools and working with hardware
• Proficiency with GIT repository
• Proficiency with JIRA
• Experience with development in continuous integration environment
• Demonstrated success working in a dynamic environment and ability to manage competing priorities

This position may require prolonged periods of sitting, standing, walking, computer work, and occasional exposure to moderate levels of noise, dust, and fumes in production areas.

Level and base salary will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on job-related knowledge, education, and experience. Base salary is one component of our total rewards package at Rocket Lab. Employees may also receive company equity and access to a comprehensive benefits package, including health benefits, paid time off, holidays, and a 401(k) plan with company match.

Other perks include employee stock purchase program, onsite facilities, and discounts.

What To Expect:
We’re on a mission to unlock the potential of space to improve life on Earth, with a culture of hard work, teamwork, and innovation. We thrive under pressure and focus on delivering results.

FOR CANDIDATES SEEKING TO WORK IN US OFFICES ONLY:
To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, Rocket Lab Employees must be a U.S. citizen, lawful U.S. permanent resident, or be eligible to obtain necessary authorizations. FOR CANDIDATES SEEKING TO WORK IN NEW ZEALAND OFFICES ONLY:
Background checks will be undertaken prior to any employment offers being made to an applicant and may include nationality checks related to ITAR.