FPGA Firmware Developer

Pay range: $99,500.00–$130,900.00 (guideline only; final offer based on scope, qualifications, internal equity, and market data). Eligible for sponsorship and employee referral bonus; relocation assistance is not provided.

About the Role

Fermilab is seeking an FPGA Firmware Developer to design, develop, verify, and integrate FPGA-based systems and embedded firmware. Work adheres to all applicable regulations, requirements, engineering standards, and DOE orders.

Responsibilities

• Design and implement FPGA logic, RTL, embedded firmware, and supporting test infrastructure.
• Perform simulation, verification, timing analysis, constraints development, and optimization.
• Develop detailed specifications, design documentation, and test plans.
• Plan and execute medium to large FPGA engineering projects from concept through deployment.
• Coordinate and direct technicians and engineers during integration and testing.
• Participate in procurement, manufacturing, installation, and operation of FPGA-based systems.
• Support cost estimation, scheduling, and project planning activities.
• Review work for adherence to specifications, standards, and project constraints.
• Provide technical direction to designers, technicians, and junior engineers.
• Participate in reviews, safety panels, and technical committees.
• Participate in technical conferences and publication.
• Perform other duties as assigned by supervisor.
• Abide by and be responsible for performing all duties in accordance with environmental, health, and safety regulations.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in an applicable engineering discipline from an ABET-accredited institution with 6+ years of engineering experience, or a Master’s/PhD with 4+ years of relevant experience.
• Proficiency in FPGA development concepts, digital logic design, and engineering methodologies.
• Ability to plan and document medium to large FPGA development projects.
• Ability to apply standard to moderately complex engineering techniques.

Skills

• Preferred experience with Xilinx FPGA chipsets (e.g., Zynq, UltraScale, 7-Series).
• Preferred experience with Xilinx development tools including Vivado, Vitis, and High-Level Synthesis (HLS).
• Preferred experience developing and debugging designs using JTAG, Xilinx IP, block design workflows, and hardware debugging tools such as ILA.

Schedule

Onsite: This role requires working from Fermilab’s Batavia office; work arrangement is subject to change based on business needs.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, vision, and flexible spending accounts.
• Paid time off.
• Life insurance.
• Short- and long-term disability insurance.
• Retirement benefits.
• Onsite day care.