FPGA Engineer (Senior)
Apex
Los Angeles, CA, USA
Posted on Nov 14, 2024
Spacecraft represent the most pressing unmet need across the entire aerospace industry. As more launch vehicles come online and the cost to orbit decreases, more companies launching payloads to space continue to emerge.
For the first time in history, this influx of payload companies combined with reduced launch costs has resulted in a massive increase in need for commercial spacecraft platforms, known as satellite buses. These buses hold the payloads of our customers and are flown on launch vehicles.
Apex manufactures these satellite buses at scale using a combination of software, vertical integration, and hardware that is designed for manufacturing. Our spacecraft enable the future of society: ranging from earth observation to communications and more.
We’d love for you to join us on our mission of providing humankind access to the galaxy beyond our planet.
As an FPGA engineer on the flight Software team, you will design, develop, and own the digital circuits driving the autonomous operation of Apex’s satellite buses. You will be responsible for developing mission critical FPGA solutions that need to operate reliably 24/7, ensuring that Apex’s spacecraft continue to operate in all scenarios.
In this role, you will work closely with both internal teams and external customers, aligning your solutions with company objectives and user requirements. We are looking for motivated engineers who are eager to solve complex problems with a focus on practicality and scalability, and who thrive in a dynamic, fast-paced environment.
Responsibilities:
- Design, implement and own mission critical firmware applications for satellite systems.
- Deploying firmware and supporting hardware integration during initial spacecraft during commissioning to firmware is functional in all scenarios.
- Own firmware solutions through the full lifecycle from initial design to deployment.
- Perform unit testing, integration testing, and system-level testing of firmware components, identifying and resolving any defects or issues.
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams to baseline product requirements and technical roadmaps.
Requirements:
- Strong proficiency in languages such as Verilog or VHDL and working knowledge of C\C++.
- B.S. or M.S. in Electrical Engineering, Electrical Engineering & Computer Engineering, Computer Engineering, or Computer Science.
- 6+ years of relevant industry experience.
- Experience using tools such as: Xilinx, Altera, Quartus, Hyperlynx, ModelSim, and OrCAD Capture.
- Experience with real time systems running on distributed hardware.
- Knowledge of embedded Linux operating systems, device trees and interfacing FPGA logic to core software executables.
- Experience with serial protocols such as SPI. I2C, UART, SpaceWire.
- Experience with verification, simulation and testing of FPGA firmware and embedded systems.
- Familiarity with network protocols (TCP/IP, UDP), secure communication systems, and encryption.
- Experience debugging hardware using tools such as the logic analyzers, oscilloscopes and serial protocol analyzers.
- Familiarity with hardware schematics and ability to contribute to hardware design.
- Familiarity with scripting and automation utilizing tools such as Python, Bash, TCL, and Docker.
Salary Range: $185,000 - $215,000 a year
The stated compensation range reflects only the targeted base salary range and excludes additional benefits. If your salary requirements fall outside of the range, we still encourage you to apply.
Benefits
Apex believes in creating a work environment that you look forward to embracing every day. Our employees love working at Apex, and we want you to love it too. We offer the following benefits:
• Shared upside: receive equity in Apex, letting you benefit from the work you create.
• Best-in-class healthcare, dental, vision plans. The primary and dependents’ premium is 99%+ covered.
• Enjoy our comprehensive PTO package, to reset and recharge.
• Competitive 401(k) plan and matching.
• Paid parental leave.
• Daily lunch and unlimited snacks!
• Community events like monthly office BBQs, pickleball tournaments, a run club and more!
• Your dream desk setup, tools, and whatever else you need to be your most productive self.
• A world class office located in Playa Vista, filled with amazing coworkers and social gatherings for you and your family.
• An opportunity to make a real impact in the aerospace industry.
Equal Opportunity Employer
Apex Technology, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. Candidates and employees are always evaluated based on merit, qualifications, and performance. We will never discriminate on the basis of race, color, gender, national origin, ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability, or any other legally protected status.