Associate FPGA Engineer

As Aetherflux’s first inhouse recruiter, I’m helping to build the team that will put the first Space Solar Power (SSP) satellite into orbit.

Aetherflux is solving the global energy crisis by building the infrastructure for abundant, resilient, and continuous space-based solar energy. We are tackling humanity’s most complex engineering challenge with a world‑class team dedicated to delivering a revolutionary power platform. Aetherflux is transforming how civilization powers, computes, and connects—from orbit to Earth.

The Associate FPGA Engineer at Aetherflux will develop and optimize FPGA‑based systems for high‑performance space applications. The role will involve developing high‑speed digital logic, signal processing algorithms, and real‑time communication protocols for our space‑based power beaming platform. You will work closely with electrical, software, and systems engineers to integrate FPGA solutions into Aetherflux's advanced satellite and ground station systems.

• FPGA Development: Design and implement high‑performance FPGA architectures for signal processing, power control, and communications.
• RTL Design & Simulation: Develop and verify RTL code using System Verilog and Verilog for high‑reliability applications.
• High‑Speed Interfaces: Implement and optimize high‑speed digital interfaces, including DDR memory controllers, Space Wire, JESD, and PCIe.
• Signal Processing & Control: Develop FPGA‑based DSP modules for power transmission control and precision beam steering.
• Hardware Integration: Collaborate with electrical and embedded software engineers to integrate FPGA‑based designs with microcontrollers, RF components, and high‑power electronics.
• Verification & Validation: Develop FPGA test benches, perform hardware‑in‑the‑loop testing, and validate designs using oscilloscopes, logic analyzers, and other lab equipment.
• Optimization for Space Environments: Ensure FPGA designs are radiation‑tolerant and optimized for low‑power, high‑reliability operation in space environments.
• Firmware & Driver Development: Support development of low‑level firmware and device drivers to interface FPGA designs with software‑controlled systems.

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or a related field.
• 1+ years of experience in FPGA design, including RTL coding, synthesis, and debugging.
• Proficiency in System Verilog, Verilog, or VHDL for FPGA development.
• Experience with FPGA development tools such as Vivado, Quartus, or Libero.
• Strong understanding of high‑speed digital design, timing analysis, and signal integrity.
• Experience with C/C++, TCL, and/or Python.
• Hands‑on experience with lab equipment such as oscilloscopes, spectrum analyzers, and logic analyzers.
• Experience with simulation tools such as Model Sim, Questa, Cadence Xcelium, Synopsys Verdi, Verilator, or equivalent.
• Experience with hardware debugging and bring‑up, including board‑level validation of FPGA designs.
• Capable of taking ownership of open‑ended design requirements.

• Master’s or PhD in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or a related discipline.
• 5+ years of experience in FPGA development, with experience in aerospace, defense, or telecommunications applications.
• Familiarity with RF systems, software‑defined radio (SDR), or high‑frequency digital design.
• Experience with FPGA + ARM SoC platforms Altera Cyclone, Xilinx Zynq, and/or Microchip Polar Fire SoC.
• Experience developing FPGA‑based DSP algorithms for signal processing applications.
• Knowledge of radiation‑hardened FPGA solutions for space applications.
• Deep understanding of FPGA physical and timing constraints.
• Experience with software/hardware co‑design and verification methodologies.
• Experience with tool automation and CI/CD workflows.

• Employees and their eligible dependents may enroll in medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• 401(k) retirement savings plan.
• Unlimited paid time off.
• 10 paid holidays per calendar year.
• Paid leave for new parents.
• Relocation assistance.

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