Senior Firmware Engineer

Location: Herndon, VA (20171)

Salary Range: $140,000 - $210,000 / year

About the Role We are a leading developer of laser and electro-optic systems for the aerospace community, building cutting-edge atmospheric sensing, laser communications, and LIDAR technologies for NASA, DoD, and commercial customers. We are seeking an experienced Senior Firmware Engineer to join our R&D division. You will architect, develop, integrate, and test advanced firmware for space-based, electro-optical payloads.

Key Responsibilities

• End-to-End Development: Lead firmware architecture and full lifecycle implementation—from requirements and design through simulation, verification, and validation.
• System Integration: Collaborate closely with hardware, software, and optical engineers to define interfaces and resolve design issues.
• Testing & Validation: Conduct lab-based debugging, hardware-in-the-loop testing, and system-level validation.
• Space-Grade Engineering: Apply high-reliability techniques (e.g., fault tolerance, radiation mitigation) to meet strict mission reliability goals.
• Process Improvement: Drive iterative development cycles, peer code reviews, and CI/CD best practices.

Required Qualifications

• Experience: 7+ years of relevant firmware engineering experience.
• Education: BS or MS in Electrical Engineering (or equivalent).
• Core Languages: Expertise in VHDL (RTL) and System Verilog (Testing).
• FPGA Expertise: Hands-on experience with Xilinx, Microchip, and Lattice FPGAs, including associated development tools, test benches, and simulations.
• Domain Knowledge: Expertise in Digital Signal Processing (DSP), precision timing, optical comms (modems), or LIDAR.
• Interfaces: Strong experience with high-speed serial links (GTY/GTM, JESD204B/C, Ethernet, SpaceWire), memory (DDR3/4, QDR, FRAM), and standard peripherals (SPI, I2C, UART, LVDS).
• Workflows: Proficiency using schematics/block diagrams for design, plus experience with GitHub, CI/CD FPGA flows, automated linting, timing closure, and bitstream generation.

Bonus Skills

• Experience with Hi-Rel/Space programs and TMR coding.
• Python for build/testing automation and data analysis.
• C/C++ development for microcontrollers.
• Familiarity with Linux, scripting, Docker containers, and VS Code.

Benefits & Perks We offer a comprehensive package designed to support your health, wealth, and work-life balance, including:

• Medical, dental, and vision coverage
• 401(k) plan with company match and immediate vesting
• Flexible work schedules, including a 9/80 alternate workweek option
• Paid time off and company holidays
• Education assistance, FSA/HSA options, and Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Company-paid disability, life insurance, and AD&D