Senior QPU Software Engineer (FPGA)

Senior FPGA Engineer - Quantum Computing Control SystemsCompany OverviewJoin QuEra Computing's engineering team to develop cutting-edge FPGA systems for neutral atom quantum computers. You'll work on real-time control systems that manipulate individual atoms with microsecond precision, enabling breakthrough quantum algorithms and applications.Role SummaryWe're seeking a Senior FPGA Engineer to design, implement, and optimize high-performance FPGA systems for quantum computing applications. You'll work on complex real-time control systems, high-speed data acquisition, and precision timing systems that are critical to our quantum computer's operation.Key ResponsibilitiesCore FPGA DevelopmentDesign and implement System Verilog modules for quantum control systems including:Scheduled multitone generators for RF/microwave quantum gatesReal-time pulse sequencers for laser controlHigh-speed ADC/DAC interfaces (16-bit, 4 samples/clock)Hardware-accelerated image processing for atom detectionDevelop and maintain Ulti-board FPGA designs (Xilinx Zynq UltraScale+ RFSoC)Implement high-speed serial interfaces (CoaXPress, Aurora, AXI4-Stream)Design clock domain crossing logic with proper CDC verificationOptimize resource utilization and timing closure for complex designsSystem Integration & VerificationCreate comprehensive testbenches using System Verilog and Python (cocotb)Develop simulation models for quantum control peripheralsImplement formal verification for critical timing constraintsDesign and validate real-time trigger and synchronization systemsTroubleshoot hardware-software integration issuesPerformance & ReliabilityOptimize data through put for high-bandwidth quantum control signalsImplement error detection and recovery mechanismsDesign robust clocking architectures for multi-domain systemsDevelop monitoring and diagnostics for system healthEnsure deterministic timing for quantum gate operationsTechnical RequirementsEssential Skills5+ years FPGA development experience with Xilinx UltraScale+ devicesExpert-level System Verilog with modern verification methodologiesExperience with high-speed serial protocols (Aurora, AXI4, PCIe, Ethernet)Real-time systems design with microsecond timing requirementsDigital signal processing implementation in FPGAsClock domain crossing design and verificationPython programming for test automation and data analysisPreferred QualificationsRF/microwave systems experience (frequency synthesis, phase-locked loops)High-speed ADC/DAC interfaces (JESD204B/C, RFSoC experience)Image processing algorithms (centroid detection, pattern recognition)Formal verification using System Verilog assertionsCoaXPress or camera interface experienceAWS/cloud development environmentsFamiliar with High Level Synthesis and Vivado block designTechnical StackFPGA Tools: Vivado 2022.2+, Vitis, PetaLinuxLanguages: SystemVerilog, Verilog, Python, TCLVerification: UVM, cocotb, pytest, formal verificationProtocols: AXI4, AXI4-Stream, Aurora, CoaXPress, SPI, I2CBoards: Xilinx ZCU102/111/216, RFSoC platformsDevelopment: Git, CI/CD, AWS EC2, LinuxProject ExamplesYou'll work on systems like:Quantum Gate Control: 8-channel RF tone generators with 0.1 Hz frequency resolutionAtom Detection: Real-time image processing at 1+ Gbps data ratesPrecision Timing: Synchronized control sequences with <1 μs jitterData Acquisition: High-speed capture of quantum measurement resultsSystem Integration: Multi-board coordination for scalable quantum computersWhat We OfferCutting-edge technology: Work on the forefront of quantum computingHigh-impact projects: Your code directly enables quantum algorithmsTechnical growth: Learn quantum physics while advancing FPGA skillsCollaborative environment: Work with physicists, software engineers, and system architectsSuccess MetricsDesign Quality: Clean, well-documented, and maintainable SystemVerilog codePerformance: Meeting timing requirements for real-time quantum controlReliability: Robust error handling and system monitoringInnovation: Proposing and implementing improvements to quantum control systemsCollaboration: Effective communication with cross-functional teamsEducation & ExperienceBachelor's/master’s in electrical engineering, Computer Engineering, or Physics5+ years FPGA development with complex, real-time systemsExperience with quantum computing, RF systems, or precision instrumentation preferredStrong problem-solving skills and attention to detailExcellent communication skills for technical documentation and team collaborationWhy This Role MattersQuantum computers represent the next frontier in computing, with potential to revolutionize cryptography, optimization, and scientific simulation. As an FPGA engineer on our team, you'll build the hardware foundation that makes quantum algorithms possible - controlling individual atoms with unprecedented precision to create the quantum states that power breakthrough applications. Your work will directly impact our ability to scale quantum computers and bring quantum advantage to real-world problems. This is an opportunity to shape the future of computing while advancing your technical expertise in cutting-edge FPGA development.This role offers the unique opportunity to combine advanced FPGA engineering with quantum physics, working on systems that operate at the fundamental limits of precision and timing. If you're passionate about both hardware engineering and quantum computing, this is the perfect role to advance both your technical skills and career.Salary is 140,000 to 190,000 We consistently monitor external market data and update base salary ranges accordingly. We determine base compensation decisions on several factors, including as geographic placement, role-specific knowledge, skills, and/or experience. In addition to our base salary offerings, we also provide equity grants for all new hires.#LI-DA1QuEra is committed to cultivating a diverse work environment and is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. We highly value diversity in our current and future employees and do not discriminate (including in our hiring and promotion practices) based on race, religion, color, national origin, gender, gender expression, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, disability status, or any other characteristic protected by law.