FPGA Engineer

Spire Global, Inc; Glasgow; Hybrid; GBP 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

A space-to-cloud analytics firm in Glasgow is seeking an FPGA Engineer to design innovative satellite communication systems. The role involves collaborating with cross-functional teams and optimizing FPGA algorithms. Ideal candidates will possess expertise in FPGA programming, analytical, and problem-solving skills. A hybrid work model is offered, requiring a minimum of three days in the office.

Qualifications

• Proficiency in VHDL or Verilog.
• Experience with FPGA synthesis and simulation tools.
• Familiarity with data-driven methodologies.

Responsibilities

• Contribute to the design of FPGA-based solutions.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams.
• Implement and optimize FPGA algorithms.

Skills

FPGA programming

Analytical skills

Problem-solving

Communication skills

Tools

Xilinx Vivado

Intel Quartus Prime

Python

TCL

Job description

Spire Global is currently embarking on projects that range from the design of advanced satellite communication systems to networking satellite constellations.

As part of the development of next-generation proprietary communication system, we are seeking a FPGA Engineer. The ideal candidate will have hands-on experience and deep expertise in FPGA programming as well as a communication background. Understanding of communication or information theory or experience with communication systems and space industry will be a plus. The candidate will have strong analytical and problem-solving skills. They will be able to navigate in a fast-changing dynamic and innovative environment. They should be familiar with communications and software-defined radio techniques.

The role requires the ability to work within a complex architecture and generate highly optimized solutions. A high standard of excellence and effectiveness, with an anticipation of correct deliverables on the first attempt, is expected.

Key Responsibilities

• Proactively contribute to the design and development of FPGA-based solutions for our next-generation of satellite communication systems.
• Collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams across multiple time zones, including FPGA, hardware, RF, antenna, DSP and software engineers to define system requirements and architecture.
• Implement and optimize FPGA algorithms for signal processing and various aspects of the digital communication stack.
• Conduct FPGA synthesis, place and route, and timing closure to meet performance targets.
• Perform FPGA verification and validation using simulation tools and hardware-in-the-loop testing.
• Troubleshoot and debug FPGA designs, identifying and resolving issues in a high-paced environment.
• Stay current with industry trends and advancements in FPGA technology and radio communications.

Qualifications / Experience

• Proficiency in (preferably) VHDL although Verilog will be considered.
• Experience with FPGA synthesis tools (e.g., Xilinx/AMD Vivado, Intel Quartus Prime). and simulation tools (e.g., GHDL, ModelSim, Questa, COCOTB).
• Experience of Xilinx/AMD MPSoC/RFSoC.
• Proficiency in scripting languages and testing tools (Python, TCL).
• Experience in HW design for high-performance multi-channel baseband processing.
• Data-driven and evidence-based work methodology.

Optional skills

• Understanding of communication theory and signal processing algorithm design (OFDM, spread spectrum, timing recovery, signal estimation and detection, MIMO techniques and beamforming, automatic gain control, pre-compensation, FEC and coding theory, channel estimation).
• Knowledge in existing wireless communication standards such as DVB-S2(X) protocols, CCSDS family of protocols, 3GPP (5G/4G-LTE/WCDMA/UMTS/GSM) or WiFi families, (802.11a/b/g/n/ac/ax/be/ad/ay), or Bluetooth.
• Experience in HW design for MIMO applications, high-speed ADCs, or multiple FPGAs.
• Competency with RF/wireless test and measurement laboratory equipment.
• RF hardware design experience in frontend design, antenna design, etc.
• Experience of version control tools (e.g., Git).
• Experience in Github Actions (GHA) and CI in general.
• Experience and knowledge of High-Level Synthesis (HLS), emulation systems and virtual platforms.
• Experience with C/C++ and/or Matlab for algorithm development, modelling and simulations.

Spire operates a hybrid work model, and this position will require you to work a minimum of three days per week in the office.

Access to US export-controlled software and/or technology may be required for this role. If needed, Spire will arrange the necessary licenses—this is not something candidates need to have before applying. #LI-MI1

About Spire

We improve life on Earth with data from space.

Spire Global is a space-to-cloud analytics company that owns and operates the largest multi-purpose constellation of satellites. Its proprietary data and algorithms provide the most advanced maritime, aviation, and weather tracking in the world. In addition to its constellation, Spire’s data infrastructure includes a global ground station network and 24/7 operations that provide real-time global coverage of every point on Earth.

Spire is Global and our success draws upon the diverse viewpoints, skills and experiences of our employees. We are proud to be an equal opportunity employer and are committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of race, color, ancestry, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, marital status, disability, gender identity or veteran status.

To help maintain a safe and secure workplace for Spire employees, all candidates who receive a conditional offer will be required to complete a background check. This may include criminal history and employment verification.

Kindly be advised that communication regarding your application may come from @spire.com, @recruiting.spire.com, or from Candidate.fyi (our scheduling tool).