Sr Research Engineer - FPGA Design

SRI is seeking a Senior Research Engineer with deep expertise in FPGA design to lead the development of real-time signal processing systems for advanced sensing applications. This role focuses on low-latency firmware development, high-performance digital signal processing (DSP) implementation, and hands-on system prototyping.You will work in multidisciplinary teams to design and deploy real-time hardware systems for applications including radar, communications, quantum sensing, and photonics. This position is ideal for an engineer who thrives at the intersection of algorithms and hardware and enjoys translating complex signal processing concepts into efficient, real-world implementations.This role is part of SRI’s Advanced Technology and Systems Division (ATSD), which develops innovative, high-performance technologies across domains including radar and electronic warfare, imaging systems, robotics, quantum sensing, and applied optics.ResponsibilitiesDesign and implement FPGA-based architectures for real-time signal processing and low-latency data pipelinesTranslate advanced DSP and algorithmic concepts into efficient hardware implementationsCollaborate closely with algorithm developers to optimize performance, resource utilization, and throughputLead FPGA development efforts from architecture and design through implementation, integration, and hardware validationDevelop and integrate embedded systems for real-time data acquisition, processing, and controlGuide system-level design decisions, including hardware/software partitioning and interface definitionMentor junior engineers and provide technical leadership across projectsSupport system integration, testing, and evaluation of prototype and fielded systemsContribute to technical proposals, white papers, and customer briefingsQualificationsRequired QualificationsBachelor’s, Master’s, or Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Physics, or a related fieldB.S. + 8 years, M.S. + 6 years, or Ph.D. + 3 years of relevant experienceU.S. Citizenship with the ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. government security clearanceTechnical ExpertiseExtensive hands-on FPGA design experience, including architecture, RTL development, simulation, timing closure, and hardware validationProficiency with HDL languages (Verilog, SystemVerilog, VHDL, or equivalent)Strong background in digital system architecture and embedded system designSolid foundation in DSP with practical implementation experienceApplied ExperienceExperience implementing real-time systems with strict latency and throughput requirements (e.g., radar, communications, or similar domains)Familiarity with SDR platforms and heterogeneous compute systems (e.g., GPUs) for sensor data processingExperience with system integration, test, and evaluation of complex hardware prototypesAdditional SkillsProficiency in Python, C, C++, or MATLABAbility to communicate complex technical concepts clearly to internal teams and external stakeholdersExperience contributing to proposals, technical documentation, and customer presentationsStrong problem-solving skills and ability to manage multiple prioritiesWillingness to travel occasionally for fieldwork, testing, or customer engagementPreferred QualificationsActive Top Secret (TS) clearance (SCI and/or SAP experience strongly preferred)Advanced experience with radar and RF communication systems, including waveform design and processing techniquesFamiliarity with radar signal processing methods such as matched filtering, range-Doppler processing, SAR, monopulse, or backprojection imagingExperience with embedded software development on microprocessors or SoCsExperience applying AI/ML techniques to sensing or signal processing problemsStrong presentation skills and experience briefing technical and non-technical audiencesWhat We OfferOpportunity to work on cutting-edge technologies with real-world impactCollaborative, mission-driven research environmentCompetitive compensation and comprehensive benefitsOpportunities for technical leadership, innovation, and career growthThe salary range is: $117,684-$175,054. Salary ranges will vary and are based on several factors, including geographic location, market competitiveness and equity amongst internal employees in similar roles. Positions may also qualify for SRI's Pay for Outstanding Performance program or the annual Performance Based Compensation program. SRI also has a competitive benefits package, to view details please go to https://www.sri.com/resources/benefits/. SRI will accept applications until the position is filled.SRI is an independent nonprofit research institute headquartered in Menlo Park, Calif., with a rich history of supporting government and industry. We create and deliver world-changing solutions for a safer, healthier, and more sustainable future. For more than 75 years, we have collaborated across technical and scientific disciplines to discover and develop groundbreaking products and technologies and bring innovations and ideas to the marketplace.