FPGA Design Engineer - Military veterans preferred

Scientific Applications & Research Associates, Inc. (SARA) is a world-class Defense Research and Development enterprise, with a charter to create new technology in support of Commercial & Government organizations. We have expertise in RF, EMP, Pulsed Power, Acoustics and Threat Warning Systems, and we prioritize partnering with our customers to address real-world problems with cost-effective solutions…that work.

SARA’s Artificial Perception & Threat Awareness (APTA) division in Cypress, CA is looking for an exceptionally talented, motivated, and creative FPGA Design Engineer to push the limits of edge processing on projects that address drone autonomy and safety, RF and acoustic sensors on moving platforms, and directed energy (RF or laser) diagnostic systems.  As part of APTA, you will contribute across the entire program lifecycle, supporting activities in initial research and development (R&D), product development, and field testing.  Working alongside the best in the industry, you will develop advanced system architectures within SoM paradigms, implement novel machine learning approaches in fabric, and develop automated test capabilities.

You will have the opportunity to grow and learn with other talented software developers, engineers, physicists, and technicians on varied programs supporting government agencies, their contractors, and commercial entities.  You will have the freedom to exercise your initiative, adaptability, drive, and of course, programming skills in a fast-paced, highly technical environment.  

Core Responsibilities:

• Technically lead a small team to develop a state-of-the art, embedded RF application
• Develop advanced FPGA-based systems for edge processing

Requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering or Computer Engineering
• 4+ years of relevant experience
• Ability to conceive a system with all components and their relations
• Experience in FPGA firmware development languages/tools including VHDL, Verilog and Vivado
• Familiarity with XILINX products including the Zynq 7000 series SOM
• Experience testing RF circuits and systems
• Knowledge and experience in software engineering practices, configuration management, software unit and regression testing, software documentation practices
• Ability to lead a small team of multidisciplinary engineers
• Demonstrated written/oral communication skills and organization of thought
• Motivated self-starter, able to complete projects with minimal supervision
• May require light physical effort, involving standing, sitting and use of hands while performing duties, carrying or lifting up to 50 pounds
• Working environment is indoor, moderately quiet, reasonably clean, well-lighted and well-ventilated; moderate physical hazards may exist
• U.S. citizenship with ability to obtain and maintain DoD security clearance

Preferred Qualifications:

• Master’s or higher degree in Electrical or Computer Engineering
• 8+ years of relevant experience
• Expertise in state-of-the-art Analog-to-Digital performance
• RF PCB design experience
• Experience in designing FPGA circuit boards and supporting hardware 
• Working knowledge of EMI/EMC
• Ability to embed and validate new signal processing algorithms
• Familiarity with XILINX IP
• Experience with MatLab, LabView and/or Simulink
• Active DoD Secret or Top Secret security clearance

SARA offers a competitive benefits package to include:

• Medical, dental, vision, disability and life insurance; and other supplemental programs
• A generous PTO program (vacation, sick, holiday)
• Tuition & certification reimbursement
• Flexible work schedules
• Discretionary Employee bonuses
• 401(k) match/profit sharing
• Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP)

Pay Range:  

Salary at SARA is determined by various factors, including but not limited to location, the individual’s particular combination of education, knowledge, skills, competencies, and experience, as well as contract-specific affordability and organizational requirements. The projected compensation range for this position is $110,000 to $145,000 (annualized USD). The estimate displayed represents the typical salary range for this position and is just one component of SARA’s total compensation package for employees. Positions are on-site, unless indicated otherwise.

SARA is an equal employment opportunity employer.