FPGA Firmware Engineer

Innovative Signal Analysis, Inc.; Richardson (TX); On-site; USD 145,000 - 185,000; Full time

Job summary

Innovative Signal Analysis, Inc. is seeking an FPGA Firmware Developer to design, test, and optimize high-performance signal processing applications on Xilinx RFSoC/Versal platforms.

You will develop firmware with VHDL/Verilog and leverage Vivado, Vitis, and Xilinx SDK, while collaborating with hardware and software teams for seamless integration. The role emphasizes system integration, DSP algorithm implementation, and rigorous verification with testbenches, with a focus on performance, timing,

Qualifications

• 5+ years of FPGA firmware development experience.
• Experience with Xilinx RFSoC/MPSoC devices.
• Experience implementing DSP algorithms on FPGA platforms.

Responsibilities

• Design, implement, and optimize signal processing applications on Xilinx RFSoC/Versal platforms.
• Develop high-performance FPGA firmware using VHDL/Verilog and Xilinx tools.
• Integrate FPGA designs with embedded systems and software applications.
• Create comprehensive testbenches and perform functional verification.
• Optimize firmware for resource utilization, clock rates, and power.
• Collaborate with hardware and software teams for seamless integration.

Skills

VHDL/Verilog

DSP algorithms

Xilinx RFSoC/Versal

System integration

Debugging tools

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering or related

Tools

Vivado

Xilinx SDK

Vitis

Job description

ISA is seeking a highly skilled and motivated FPGA Firmware Developer to join our growing team. This position involves designing, developing, and testing high-performance signal processing applications using Xilinx RFSoC, MPSoC, and Versal devices. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in FPGA development, a deep understanding of signal processing algorithms and implementations, and experience working with modern Xilinx FPGAs in complex systems.

Responsibilities

• FPGA Design & Development:
  • Design, implement, and optimize signal processing applications on Xilinx RFSoC, MPSoC, and Versal platforms.
  • Develop high-performance FPGA firmware using VHDL/Verilog, leveraging Xilinx development tools such as Vivado, Xilinx SDK, and Vitis.
  • Implement digital signal processing (DSP) algorithms and interfaces for high-speed data processing, including but not limited to filtering, modulation, demodulation, and error correction.
• System Integration:
  • Integrate FPGA designs with embedded systems and software applications.
  • Collaborate with hardware engineers to ensure efficient data flow between FPGA and host processors.
  • Develop and test interfaces to external peripherals, including ADCs, DACs, and RF components.
• Create comprehensive testbenches to validate FPGA designs.
• Perform functional verification and debug issues related to signal processing operations and hardware-software integration.
• Use debugging tools such as Vivado Logic Analyzer and other software tools to diagnose and resolve hardware and software issues.
• Performance Optimization:
  • Optimize firmware for performance, including resource utilization (LUTs, BRAM, DSP slices), clock rates, and power consumption.
  • Conduct timing analysis and work to meet stringent timing and throughput requirements for signal processing applications.
• Work closely with software engineers, hardware designers, and system architects to ensure seamless integration of FPGA-based solutions into larger systems.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or a related field (Master's degree preferred).
• Experience:
  • Minimum of 5 years of experience in FPGA firmware development.
  • Proven experience in FPGA firmware development with Xilinx RFSoC and/or MPSoC devices.
  • Experience with signal processing algorithms and their implementation on FPGA platforms.
  • Experience with system integration and debugging tools (e.g., Vivado, serial protocol analyzers, Oscilloscopes, logic analyzers).
• Technical Skills:
  • Strong proficiency in VHDL or Verilog for FPGA design.
  • Hands‑on experience with Xilinx Vivado, Vitis, and SDK tools.
  • Knowledge of digital communication systems and DSP algorithms (e.g., FIR/IIR filters, FFTs, modulation techniques).
  • Familiarity with high-speed serial interfaces such as JESD204B, PCIe, or similar.
• Soft Skills:
  • Strong problem‑solving skills and attention to detail.
  • Team player with excellent communication skills, with the ability to effectively interact with technical teams, leadership and customers.
  • Ability to work collaboratively in a fast‑paced, multidisciplinary environment.
• Other:
  • Position requires TOP SECRET/SCI security clearance. Employment at ISA requires US citizenship.

Preferred Qualifications

• Familiarity with Python and/or C/C++ for embedded software development.
• Familiarity with Matlab for design and analysis
• Experience with RFSoC and Versal devices
• Experience with high-speed data converters (ADC/DAC) integration.
• Experience with multi‑core processor systems and embedded real‑time operating systems (RTOS).
• Prior experience with real‑time FPGA‑based signal processing applications.
• Knowledge of RF signal processing and related hardware interfaces.
• Experience in the defense, telecommunications, or aerospace sectors.

We offer a compensation package that includes a competitive base salary plus annual performance bonus and benefits. We consider many factors when determining salary offers, such as candidate's work experience, education, training & skills, as well as market and business considerations. We are also open to considering candidates with experience and qualifications at a different level than required in a job posting, which may affect the compensation package offered.

Salary Range

$145,000 - $185,000 USD

Company Overview

Innovative Signal Analysis, Inc. is a leading provider of real‑time signal and image processing systems for the government and remains dedicated to the development of high performance signal processing solutions. ISA works in all phases from concept design, through development and integration, to operations and maintenance of challenging mission critical systems.

Innovative Signal Analysis & HawkEye 360 are committed to hiring and retaining a diverse workforce. We are proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer, making decisions without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, marital status, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, or any other protected class.