Senior DSP Engineer - End-to-End Satellite Modem Algorithms

Northwood; Torrance (CA); On-site; USD 150,000 - 190,000; Full time

Job summary

Northwood is seeking a Senior DSP Engineer to own modem algorithms for our next-generation radio platform, working across SDR and FPGA environments. You will define and implement waveform processing chains and collaborate with RF and systems teams to deliver end-to-end solutions.

You will translate waveform concepts into real hardware-accurate implementations, validating performance against challenging channel conditions.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree with 5+ years of experience in electrical or computer engineering.
• Experience developing modems or waveform processing chains for SDR, wireless, radar, or similar RF systems.
• Strong understanding of digital communications theory: CCSDS waveforms, BPSK/QPSK/OQPSK, DVB-S2, carrier synchronization, pulse shaping, equalization, and Doppler effects.
• Demonstrated ability to carry waveform algorithms from analysis and prototyping through to a working implementation.
• Working understanding of the complete signal chain and how modem design decisions interact with RF and hardware constraints.
• Experience with communication system testing and performance characterization.

Responsibilities

• Own the definition and development of modem algorithms end-to-end, from requirements through implementation and validation.
• Define waveform processing chains — synchronization, pulse shaping, equalization, and related signal-processing functions — for implementation on an in-house SDR platform or FPGA.
• Partition and implement modem signal-processing functions across FPGA logic and embedded/host-based compute, working within the existing hardware platform.
• Collaborate with RF, FPGA, and systems engineers to integrate modem algorithms into the end-to-end system and validate performance.
• Develop and run communication system tests to characterize modem performance under realistic channel impairments.

Skills

SDR waveform processing

FPGA development

C++/Rust

Education

Bachelor's degree in EE/CE

Tools

GNU Radio

Job description

Northwood is seeking a Senior DSP Engineer to own modem algorithms for our next-generation radio platform, working across SDR and FPGA environments. You will define and implement waveform processing chains and collaborate with RF and systems teams to deliver end-to-end solutions.

You will translate waveform concepts into real hardware-accurate implementations, validating performance against challenging channel conditions.