FPGA Hardware Design Engineer

Kforce has a client in Bellevue, WA that is seeking a FPGA Hardware Design Engineer.

Summary:A technology-focused organization is seeking a highly skilled FPGA and Hardware Development Engineer to lead the design and implementation of FPGA and embedded processor solutions for advanced optics systems. This role involves defining system-level requirements, developing embedded hardware architecture, and delivering high-performance, real-time digital designs. The ideal candidate will be self-motivated, hands-on, and thrive in a dynamic, hardware-centric engineering environment.

Responsibilities:

• Lead the complete FPGA and embedded processor development lifecycle, from concept through implementation, for high-performance optics systems
• Design and implement FPGA architectures using Verilog HDL, perform simulations, develop testbenches, and execute timing analysis to ensure functional and performance validation
• Integrate FPGA logic with embedded processors and associated subsystems, including the development of custom communication protocols and interfaces
• Design embedded processor boards, including component selection, schematic capture, digital circuit design, and printed circuit board (PCB) layout
• Create and execute detailed hardware test plans for board bring-up, system debugging, and performance optimization
• Maintain comprehensive technical documentation, including design specifications, test procedures, and verification reports
• Contribute to cross-functional hardware system architecture and design reviews
• Collaborate closely with electrical, systems, and software engineers to meet technology, performance, and timeline goals
• Develop and support a robust FPGA development environment and collaborate with DevOps to enhance build, release, and test automation processes* Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or a related discipline; Master's degree is preferred, particularly with a focus on optics, digital signal processing, or related areas
• At least 8 years of professional experience in FPGA and embedded systems development
• Deep understanding of digital design principles with expertise in Verilog HDL, synthesis, and timing closure
• Proficiency with FPGA development platforms such as Lattice (preferred), Xilinx, or equivalent
• Familiarity with embedded processor integration and real-time operating systems
• Experience in implementing signal processing algorithms and fixed-point arithmetic techniques
• Proven capability in designing and integrating low-level hardware interfaces (LVDS, MIPI, SPI, I2C, and custom)
• Proficiency in scripting languages, with a preference for Python; Experience in developing C/C++ or Python-based libraries for hardware systems is advantageous
• Experience working with high-speed differential data and serial peripheral interfaces
• Competence in schematic capture and PCB design tools, particularly Altium Designer; Experience with complex, high-density multi-layer board designs is preferred
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities across both hardware and software domains
• Effective communicator with the ability to collaborate across interdisciplinary engineering teams
• Knowledge of optical system architecture and implementation is highly desirable
• Experience with optical testing and characterization is a significant plus