FPGA Embedded Controls Engineer

Auriga Space; Los Angeles (CA); On-site; USD 100,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

Auriga Space in Los Angeles is seeking a highly motivated FPGA Embedded Controls Engineer to design and implement real-time control systems for their cutting-edge electromagnetic launch platform. The ideal candidate will have at least 5 years of FPGA design experience and proficiency in embedded programming.

This position allows you to thrive in a fast-paced environment focused on innovation in aerospace technology. Join Auriga and help push the boundaries of space launch capabilities while working with advanced power electronics and control systems.

Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years of experience in FPGA design and verification.
• Experience with real-time control systems and high-speed signal processing.
• Familiarity with electric motor control, inverters, and DC converters firmware is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Design, implement, and test FPGA-based control systems.
• Develop firmware for real-time data acquisition and control loops.
• Collaborate on control algorithms for linear motor systems.
• Perform hardware-in-the-loop testing and optimize system performance.

Skills

FPGA Design

Embedded Programming (C/C++)

Motor Control

Power Electronics

Signal Processing

Altium Designer

Education

Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering

Job description

Auriga Space is developing novel electromagnetic launch technology for on-demand orbital access. Our system replaces the first stage of a traditional rocket with a ground-based accelerator, drastically reducing costs and enabling rapid, reusable launch capabilities. We work at the intersection of aerospace, advanced power electronics, and control systems to deliver new capabilities for space and defense.

Auriga is seeking a highly motivated FPGA Embedded Controls Engineer to design and implement real-time control systems for our electromagnetic launch platform. This role requires strong expertise in FPGA development and a working understanding of motor control and power electronics to ensure seamless integration with high-power hardware. The ideal candidate thrives in a fast-paced startup environment, enjoys solving complex problems, and is passionate about pushing the boundaries of space launch technology.

Responsibilities

• FPGA Development: Design, implement, and test FPGA-based control systems for high-speed electric motor. Develop Verilog code for signal processing, real-time control, and safety interlocks.
• Embedded Systems Integration: Develop firmware for real-time data acquisition and control loops.
• Control and Motor Systems: Collaborate with electrical team to implement control algorithms for linear motor-like systems.
• System Optimization & Testing: Perform hardware-in-the-loop testing and optimize timing, latency, and reliability. Support test campaigns for performance validation and troubleshooting.

Basic Qualifications

• A bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering (or equivalent field of study)
• Minimum 5 years of experience in FPGA design and verification (VHDL or Verilog).
• Proficiency in embedded programming (C/C++).
• Experience with real-time control systems and high-speed signal processing.
• Fundamental knowledge of power electronics and electric machines
• Experience with electric motor control, inverters, and DC converters firmware is a plus
• Strong comprehension of design fundamentals
• Willingness to work in a hands-on, constantly evolving environment
• Detail-oriented and capable of effectively prioritizing and executing tasks
• Strong verbal and written communication skills
• Familiarity with Altium Designer (or similar software)
• To conform to U.S. Government export regulations, applicant must be a (i) U.S. citizen or national, (ii) U.S. lawful, permanent resident (aka green card holder), (iii) Refugee under 8 U.S.C. § 1157, or (iv) Asylee under 8 U.S.C. § 1158, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State. More details on ITAR are available on the U.S. Department of State's Directorate of Defense Trade Controls website.

Auriga provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment at Auriga, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training.