Senior / Principal FPGA Engineer – Space Imaging

CBSbutler; Chelmsford; On-site; GBP 50,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

An innovative firm in the defense and aerospace sector is seeking a Divisional Manager to lead FPGA design and development for space applications. This role requires expertise in VHDL and a strong background in high-reliability systems. You'll be at the forefront of designing cutting-edge electronics that contribute to long-term space missions. Collaborating with a multidisciplinary team, you will manage the entire FPGA lifecycle from development to deployment, ensuring that all systems meet rigorous standards for performance and reliability. Join a dynamic team where your contributions will have a significant impact on the future of space technology.

Qualifications

• 3+ years of experience in FPGA design and verification.
• Strong understanding of space-grade reliability and ECSS standards.

Responsibilities

• Design and maintain FPGA systems using VHDL.
• Develop test benches and ensure timing accuracy.

Skills

FPGA Design

VHDL

Simulation

Spaceflight Projects

High-speed Transceiver Interfaces

Tools

Microchip Libero

Xilinx Vivado

Oscilloscopes

Logic Analyzers

Job description

Divisional Manager - Defence & Security @ CBSbutler

Location: Chelmsford, Essex (4 days p/w in office)

Space Imaging is expanding its portfolio of projects to develop Front End Electronics (FEE) systems for space applications, including CMOS detectors, FEE, FPGA (VHDL), and Microprocessors. These systems require high-quality FPGA designs for long-term space missions.

We seek a multidisciplinary team member with experience in FPGA design, verification, and development, using tools like Microchip Libero and Xilinx Vivado, with a focus on space-grade reliability.

Responsibilities

• Design, verify, and maintain FPGA systems in VHDL
• Develop self-checking test benches and perform simulations
• Ensure timing accuracy using constraints and analysis
• Estimate project timelines and define tasks
• Document requirements, designs, and test procedures
• Utilize electronic test equipment (oscilloscopes, logic analyzers)
• Manage FPGA lifecycle from development to deployment, collaborating with software and electronics teams

Preferred Skills & Experience

• 3+ years FPGA design experience in VHDL
• Experience with spaceflight, aerospace, or defense projects
• Knowledge of ECSS standards
• High-speed transceiver interfaces and radiation-hardened FPGA design techniques
• Experience with SpaceWire, RMAP/CCSDS protocols, and image processing

Additional Details

• Seniority level: Mid-Senior level
• Employment type: Full-time
• Job function: Engineering, Manufacturing, and Science
• Industries: Defense, Space Manufacturing, Aerospace, Electronics