Sr. FPGA Engineer I/II

About this role

ABOUT ROCKET LAB

Rocket Lab is an end-to-end space company delivering responsive launch services, complete spacecraft design and manufacturing, payloads, satellite components, and more – all with the goal of opening access to space. The rockets and satellites we build and launch enable some of the most ambitious and vital space missions globally, supporting scientific exploration, Earth observation and missions to combat climate change, national security, and exciting new technology demonstrations.

Our Electron rocket has become the second most frequently launched U.S. rocket annually and has delivered more than 230 satellites to orbit, all while we work to develop Neutron, our upcoming medium-lift, reusable launch vehicle for larger constellation deployment. Our Space Systems business designs and builds our extensive line of satellites, payloads, and their components, including spacecraft that have been selected to support NASA missions to the Moon and Mars and components used on the James Webb Space Telescope.

SPACE SYSTEMS

At Rocket Lab, we’re not just launching rockets — we're building the future of space. Our Space Systems team builds everything from complete spacecraft, precision payloads to the components and subsystems that allow them to thrive in space, like solar panels, flight software, star trackers, optical systems, separation systems, radios, and more.

Our Space Systems team has enabled more than 1,700 missions, ranging from interplanetary exploration, in-space manufacturing to national security and defense initiatives. The team has built spacecraft, payloads, and components for missions to the Moon and Mars, working with partners including NASA, the Space Development Agency, and the U.S. Space Force. Whether it’s a single high-performance spacecraft, constellation, or the vertically integrated components that help them get to space — our world class Space Systems team is empowering some of the boldest and most ambitious space missions.

SENIOR FPGA ENGINEER I/II

We are currently seeking a Sr. FPGA Engineer for a future opening to join our FPGA team based out of Long Beach, CA. This team supports our Space Systems division, and leads cutting-edge satellite programs for civil, commercial, and defense customers. As a Sr. FPGA Engineer, you will be responsible for development and verification of FPGA firmware designs for the avionics systems in our spacecraft programs. You will work collaboratively with engineers of various disciplines and participate in all aspects of FPGA firmware design, from requirements definition to design, implementation, verification, and testing. As an engineer on the spacecraft development team, you will have frequent opportunities to test and operate your systems on-orbit. We're looking for people who are passionate about spacecraft electrical hardware design, with a willingness to learn in a fast-paced environment.

WHAT YOU’LL GET TO DO:

• Collaborate with other engineering disciplines in developing firmware architecture and requirements

• Design and verify FPGA firmware for Xilinx and Microchip FPGA and SoC devices

• Develop documentation for FPGA operation and interfacing with other SW and FPGA systems

• Participate in test campaigns, ranging from module-level to automated testing at the unit and system level

YOU’LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS AS SENIOR FPGA ENGINEER I:

• Bachelor’s degree in electrical, computer, or software engineering; or other engineering degree

• 5+ years of experience with FPGA firmware development

• Proficiency in VHDL

• Strong understanding of FPGA design fundamentals and principles

• U.S. citizenship due to program requirements

YOU’LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS AS SENIOR FPGA ENGINEER II:

• Bachelor’s degree in electrical, computer, or software engineering; or other engineering degree

• 8+ years of experience with FPGA firmware development

• Proficiency in VHDL

• Strong understanding of FPGA design fundamentals and principles

• U.S. citizenship due to program requirements

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:

• Master’s or PhD degree in electrical, computer, or software engineering; or other engineering degrees

• Proficiency with Xilinx and Microchip devices and tools

• Proficiency with verification frameworks including UVM and VUnit

• Experience with software defined radios and DSP algorithms

• Experience with feedback control systems

• Experience with FPGAs and embedded systems in a radiation environment, including SEU/SEL impact and mitigation within spacecraft avionics

• Proficiency with concepts in signal integrity and digital timing with experience in digital worst case circuit analysis (DWCCA)

• Experience working with common interface protocols including SPI, UART, I2C, and CAN

• Experience working with high-speed interface protocols including GigE and PCIe

• Proficiency with embedded software

• Proficiency in reading PCB designs and schematics

• Proficiency with lab tools and working with hardware

• Proficiency with GIT repository

• Proficiency with JIRA

• Experience with development in continuous integration environment

• Demonstrated success working in a dynamic environment and ability to manage competing priorities

This position may require prolonged periods of sitting, standing, walking, computer work, and occasional exposure to moderate levels of noise, dust, and fumes in production areas.

Level and base salary will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on the following considerations: job-related knowledge and skills, education, and experience.

Base salary is just one component of our total rewards package at Rocket Lab. Employees may also receive company equity and access to a robust benefits package including: top tier medical HMO, PPO & a 100% company-sponsored medical HSA plan option, dental and vision coverage, 3 weeks paid vacation and 5 days sick leave per year, 11 paid holidays per year, flexible spending and dependent care savings

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