Communications / DSP Engineer

Xona; Burlingame (CA); On-site; USD 120,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

Xona, based in Burlingame, California, is seeking a professional to drive advancements in navigational intelligence through algorithm and hardware evolution. The role involves developing complex algorithms and simulations, ensuring robust performance under varied conditions.

The ideal candidate will hold an MS or PhD in EE, CE, or related fields, with over 7 years of experience in digital communications or satellite systems. An inclusive environment is fostered, with opportunities for diverse applicants.

Qualifications

• 7+ years' experience in digital communications, DSP, or satellite systems.
• Strong mastery of synchronization, ranging, and spread-spectrum algorithm design.
• Hands-on experience with FPGA-based signal processing and bit-true/fixed-point modeling.

Responsibilities

• Develop acquisition, tracking, data decoding, and measurement algorithms.
• Build Python/C++ simulations and analyze performance.
• Lead vendor SOWs, acceptance tests, integration, and compliance reviews.

Skills

Digital communications

DSP

Satellite systems

FPGA-based signal processing

Python

C/C++

Education

MS or PhD in EE, CE, or related field

Tools

Python

C/C++

FPGA

Job description

Xona is the navigational intelligence company bringing real-time, centimeter-level certainty to any device, anywhere on Earth.

With Pulsar – the world’s most advanced PNT satellite infrastructure in Low Earth Orbit – Xona will offer a future‑proof, backwards‑compatible global positioning system optimized for absolute precision, superior power, and robust protection.

What You’ll Do

• Algorithm & Hardware Evolution: Develop acquisition, tracking, data decoding, and measurement algorithms; collaborate across the team to drive the architectural transition from mathematical models to fixed‑point, optimized FPGA designs and verifications.
• High‑Fidelity Simulation: Build Python/C++ simulations and analyze performance under low‑SNR, high dynamics, interference, and multipath.
• Integrated Architecture: Define HW/SW partitioning and system interfaces; optimize for FPGA resource utilization and timing constraints while ensuring requirements traceability.
• Measurement Product Definition: Specify measurement products (code phase, carrier, Doppler, C/N₀, PRs, DRs) and validate with Navigation team.
• Vendor & Lifecycle Management: Lead vendor SOWs, acceptance tests, integration, and compliance reviews. Document system architecture, simulations, trade studies, and verification results.

Required Qualifications

• MS or PhD in EE, CE, or related field; 7+ years’ experience in digital communications, DSP, or satellite systems.
• Strong mastery of synchronization, ranging, and spread‑spectrum algorithm design.
• Hands‑on experience with FPGA‑based signal processing and bit‑true/fixed‑point modeling.
• Proficiency in Python, C/C++ for system modeling.
• Prior experience in vendor technical leadership and cross‑functional system integration.

Preferred Qualifications

• GEO satellite backhaul or inter‑satellite cross‑link (ISL) experience.
• Familiarity with GNSS navigation and spread‑spectrum systems.
• Knowledge of measurement integrity; experience with lab bring‑up, test automation, and HIL/OTA testing.
• Experience in ARM‑based MPSoC systems (Cortex‑A/R), with experience developing Embedded Linux (PetaLinux/Yocto) and device drivers specifically for Zynq UltraScale+ environments.

Key Competencies

• Systems thinking with requirements and verification rigor.
• Technical leadership across internal teams and external vendors.
• Clear technical communication and documentation.
• Pragmatic, verification‑driven approach for flight‑ready solutions.

For U.S. Roles:

To comply with U.S. Government space technology export regulations, applicant must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the United States (i.e. Green Card holder), or other protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3).

For U.K. Roles:

To comply with U.K. regulations, this role requires Baseline Personnel Security Standard (BPSS) checks, and successful candidates must be eligible to obtain UK Security Clearance (SC).

For Canada Roles:

Successful candidates must obtain and hold a security clearance at the reliability status level, and pass security assessment for the Canadian Controlled Goods Program (CGP) and ITAR.

We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status.