Northwood · 5 hours ago
Lead FPGA Engineer
Northwood is on a mission to transform connectivity between earth and space through innovations in space communications technologies. The Lead FPGA Engineer will architect the digital backbone of antenna systems, focusing on designing FPGA solutions for high-rate data processing and ensuring reliable connectivity in demanding environments.
Satellite Communication
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
Qualification
Required
10+ years of experience delivering complex digital hardware designs
Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering or similar hardware-focused field
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
Experience with FPGA SoCs, including processors, peripherals, and custom logic
Proficiency with lab equipment (oscilloscopes, spectrum analyzers) for debugging high-speed FPGA designs
On-site role in Torrance, with some flexibility
Preferred
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
Company
Northwood
Northwood was founded by Bridgit Mendler, Griffin Cleverly, and Shaurya Luthra with the mission to expand access to space by transforming satellite backhaul infrastructure.
Funding
Current Stage
Early StageTotal Funding
$36.4MKey Investors
Harvard Innovation Labs
2025-04-22Series A· $30M
2024-02-19Seed· $6.3M
2023-02-08Grant· $0.1M
Recent News
Satellite Today
2025-07-11
Ars Technica - All content
2025-07-10
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