Software Developer (FPGA/Systems)

Reference: 26093Location: Chicago, IL, United StatesIndustry: Trading FirmPosted: 2026-07-28Contact: Mike LaTulipEmail: View email address on click.appcast.io Developer (FPGA/Systems)Location: RemoteAbout the OpportunityDrive the future of execution performance by engineering the critical software layer connecting custom hardware acceleration units to an ultra-low-latency trading infrastructure. This high-impact role empowers a self-directed developer to own performance-critical solutions—from device drivers to diagnostic frameworks—where microsecond optimizations directly drive business success. You will work alongside top-tier technical peers in an agile, ownership-driven engineering culture.ResponsibilitiesArchitect and maintain high-speed C++ interfaces that integrate hardware acceleration components with internal core execution platforms.Write and refine custom Linux device drivers, focusing on DMA operations, PCIe protocols, memory mapping, and interrupt management to achieve minimal latency.Collaborate closely with hardware designers during lab bring-up, unit validation, and testing of hardware description language modules using automated software frameworks.Engineer custom diagnostic utilities, deployment tools, and automation suites using systems-level C++ and Python.Analyze overall system performance using host logs, network packet captures, and internal telemetry to isolate bottlenecks and optimize throughput.Fine-tune low-latency network communication stacks (TCP/UDP/IP) and custom Ethernet protocols tailored for high-frequency execution environments.Requirements (must-have)5+ years of hands-on software development experience with a focus on systems programming and low-level performance tuning.Advanced proficiency in C++ (C++14/17 standards) alongside strong Python scripting capabilities for tooling and automation.Deep knowledge of Linux kernel architecture, including driver creation, interrupt handling, kernel-bypass mechanisms, and memory management.Strong technical background in PCIe communication protocols, DMA engines, and hardware-software interface design.Mastery of network protocol mechanics (TCP/IP, UDP, Ethernet) and the OSI model within high-throughput systems.Practical understanding of hardware-level optimization concepts such as NUMA topology, cache coherency, and memory-mapped I/O.Familiarity with hardware description languages (SystemVerilog/Verilog) and the ability to interpret RTL code.Experience using network capture tools (e.g., Wireshark) and hardware-level debugging utilities.Exposure to vendor FPGA development toolchains (such as Xilinx or Intel suites).Excellent verbal and written communication skills with a collaborative, ownership-oriented mindset.Preferred Qualifications (nice-to-have)Prior experience within a proprietary trading, market-making, or high-frequency trading firm.Compensation & BenefitsHighly competitive base salary with performance-linked annual bonus potential.Comprehensive health, vision, and dental coverage.401(k) retirement plan with employer matching.Generous paid time off and wellness perks.Equal Opportunity Employer (EEO).