FPGA RF Signal Processing Engineer
About the role
Muon Space seeks a talented FPGA Engineer with RF processing Expertise to join our High Performance Compute (HPC) team. In this role, you will implement HDL/RTL for digital signal processing of RF systems on FPGAs, and design and optimize these algorithms. You'll work at the intersection of RF theory, algorithm development, software defined radio (SDR), and high performance digital FPGA design to deliver high-performance wireless communication and RF sensing products. If you thrive on complex challenges in a dynamic startup environment and want to build the future of Earth observation, we want to hear from you.
This position is hybrid and requires working on-site in our San Jose, CA office three days per week.
Responsibilities
Implement and optimize RF processing algorithms on FPGAs for real-time execution; support algorithm prototyping and modelling and porting to ARM FPGA-SoCs
Design, simulate, implement and integrate DSP and modulation algorithms for RF applications (Communications, ESM, Radar, etc.)
Collaborate with RF hardware engineers on communications and instrument bring-up, calibration routines, and system integration, and team up with other software departments
Author technical documentation, design specifications, and test reports
Qualifications
BS/MS in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or related field
3+ years of professional experience in FPGA development of RF algorithms and translating prototype algorithms into FPGA implementations
Experience with general RF digital signal processing techniques in some of the following areas: spectrum monitoring, signal intelligence, modulation/demodulation, filtering, channel estimation, equalization, synchronization, AGC, DPD, etc.
Profound expertise in RTL/HDL (Verilog / System Verilog / VHDL) and FPGA system architecture and design flows
Ability to work with a distributed, interdisciplinary team (scientists, engineers, data support, etc.)
Familiarity with modern software development tooling and best practices
Ability and willingness to obtain and maintain a U.S. security clearance. Active clearance is a plus.
Preferred Qualifications
Experience in systems analysis, troubleshooting and design, with a strong understanding of the interplays between hardware and software
Experience working with a distributed team of developers across multiple groups and departments
Familiarity with Xilinx/AMD RFSoC or MPSoC
Proficiency in C/C++ or Rust for embedded and real-time systems
Experience with Python-based development and analysis
Familiarity with FPGA-based DSP techniques
DPD (Digital Predistortion), beamforming, MIMO, or radar signal processing
Communications: Modulation schemes (QAM, OFDM, FSK), channel coding, multirate signal processing, and adaptive filtering
RF concepts: mixers, PLLs, ADCs/DACs, IQ imbalance, frequency planning, link budgets
Calibration algorithms (DC offset, IQ correction, LO leakage)
Experience working on space-based applications
Exposure to CI/CD pipelines for embedded firmware
Proficient with version control (Git), debugging tools (JTAG, GDB), and lab instrumentation
What You’ll Bring
A systems-level mindset that connects RF physics, DSP mathematics, and FPGA implementation
Strong analytical and debugging skills for solving RF/FPGA hardware bugs
Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a cross-functional team
Excellent written and verbal communication skills
Salary
The salary range for this role is $173,000 - $196,000, plus a competitive equity grant and comprehensive benefits package. Final compensation will be determined based on skills, qualifications, experience, and geographic location as assessed during the interview process.