Junior FPGA Engineer

About the Role

Vanteon Corporation is seeking a Junior FPGA Engineer to support FPGA and embedded system development for customer programs and internal research and development. You will work with experienced engineers to develop FPGA logic, verify designs, and gain hands-on experience integrating programmable logic with processors and electronic hardware.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and implement FPGA logic under the guidance of experienced engineers.
• Develop synthesizable VHDL and/or Verilog for control functions, state machines, data interfaces, and processing functions.
• Create test benches and perform simulations to verify assigned designs.
• Support synthesis, implementation, timing analysis, and resolution of design issues.
• Assist with FPGA configuration, board bring-up, hardware testing, and debugging.
• Support integration of FPGA logic with embedded processors, firmware, and peripheral devices.
• Collaborate with hardware, embedded software, RF, and DSP engineers on development and testing.
• Participate in design reviews and incorporate feedback.
• Document designs, interfaces, test procedures, and results.
• Communicate progress, ask questions, and identify issues requiring guidance.
• Build technical skills through mentoring, cross-training, and hands-on project work.

Requirements & Tech Stack

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or a related technical discipline.
• Foundational knowledge of digital logic, synchronous design, finite state machines, and FPGA architecture.
• Practical experience developing FPGA logic using VHDL and/or Verilog through coursework, projects, internships, co-op assignments, or employment.
• Familiarity with FPGA development tools such as AMD/Xilinx Vivado or Intel Quartus.
• Basic understanding of simulation, synthesis, and timing concepts.
• Ability to read schematics and understand connections between FPGA logic and electronic hardware.
• Strong problem-solving skills and willingness to learn unfamiliar tools and technologies.
• Ability to work collaboratively, respond to feedback, and communicate technical information clearly.
• Eligibility to access controlled data required for assigned projects.

Preferred Qualifications

• Hands-on experience in both embedded systems and FPGA development.
• Internship, co-op, or professional experience involving FPGA design, embedded software, or hardware integration.
• Experience with embedded C/C++ and microcontroller or processor-based systems.
• Experience integrating FPGA logic with an embedded processor, including AMD/Xilinx Zynq or comparable SoC platforms.
• Familiarity with interfaces such as SPI, I²C, UART, AXI, or DMA.
• Experience creating test benches and using simulation tools such as Vivado Simulator or Questa/ModelSim.
• Experience with hardware bring-up or debugging using oscilloscopes, logic analyzers, or embedded debugging tools.
• Familiarity with Python or Tcl scripting and Git version control.
• Exposure to embedded Linux, real-time operating systems, DSP, or wireless communications.

Physical Requirements

• Extended periods working at a computer and performing laboratory development and testing.
• Duties may require sitting, standing, walking, reaching, and handling electronic hardware and test equipment.
• Must be able to lift up to 15 pounds at times.

Work Environment

• Office and electronics laboratory environment.
• Regular onsite work at our Rochester, NY office.
• Flexibility for remote work may be available.
• Occasional work outside normal business hours may be necessary.

ITAR and CUI Requirement

• Requires access to export-controlled technical data and Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI).
• Candidates must be U.S. citizens or otherwise eligible to access specific ITAR-controlled data and CUI without additional authorization.

Benefits

• Flexible work environment and diverse projects.
• Cross-training, education benefits, and a mentoring program.
• Employee-sponsored events.
• Comprehensive BCBS medical, dental, and vision coverage (80% sponsored by the company starting in 2027).
• Safe Harbor 401(k) with company match.
• Paid Parental Leave.
• Employer-provided life insurance.
• Robust Employee Assistance Program (EAP).
• On-site gym.
• Competitive salary, generous paid time off (PTO), and flexible leave options.

Compensation

• Annual salary, equity, and benefits.
• Salary range: $80,000 – $100,000 USD per year.
• Individual pay determined by geography, job-related skills, experience, and relevant education or training.
• Background and drug screening required upon hire.