Senior FPGA Engineer

About the role

Northwood is deploying a global network of phased array ground stations that will revolutionize how satellites communicate with Earth—delivering real-time, ultra-high-throughput connections that power everything from commercial ventures to national security missions. We need a Senior FPGA Engineer to architect the digital backbone of our antenna systems, pushing the boundaries of data transport and signal processing to handle massive parallel streams with rock-solid reliability.

Responsibilities

• Design core space-communication systems – Architect and implement networking and DSP blocks on FPGAs to process high-rate data from phased-array antennas and support reliable connectivity where traditional systems struggle.
• Lead projects from concept to production – Work with cross-functional teams through prototyping, productization, deployment, and ongoing operations to ensure systems meet performance needs in demanding environments.
• Develop system architecture – Assess trade-offs, define requirements, and optimize architectures for resilient, high-speed communication links that support global customers with minimal downtime.
• Debug and improve deployed systems – Review field test data from global ground stations, identify hardware-software integration issues, and update designs to improve reliability and throughput.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering or similar hardware-focused field
• 5-10+ years of experience delivering complex digital hardware designs
• Strong Verilog/SystemVerilog skills for efficient, synthesizable designs
• Python experience for automation, simulation, and system integration
• Hands-on experience with FPGA-based DSP and/or networking
• Proficiency with lab equipment (oscilloscopes, spectrum analyzers) for debugging high-speed FPGA designs

Prior Experience

• Onsite in Torrance

Preferred Qualifications

• Proficiency with C++ or Rust - For embedded software that complements your FPGA work in performance-critical applications
• Hands-on with high-performance PCBA architecture and design, including FPGA integration: You've architected boards that push the limits of speed, power, and reliability in demanding environments

Compensation and Benefits

Senior FPGA Engineer/Level 3: $160,000 - $200,000 per year
Senior FPGA Engineer/Level 4: $160,000 - $200,000 per year
Senior FPGA Engineer/Level 5: $184,000 - $230,000 per year
Principal FPGA Engineer/Level 6: $230,000 - $275,000 per year

Your actual level and base salary will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on job-related knowledge, skills, education, and experience. Base salary is just one part of your total rewards package at Northwood. You may also be eligible for equity in the form of stock options or other long-term incentives, as well as potential performance bonuses.

We offer comprehensive medical, vision, and dental coverage, a 401(k) retirement plan, short- and long-term disability insurance, life insurance, paid parental leave, generous paid time off, and various other perks and discounts.