Junior FPGA Engineer

Junior FPGA Engineer

Location: Rochester, NY Department: Engineering FLSA Status: Exempt

Vanteon, a Performance Drone Works (PDW) Company, develops wireless, RF, and embedded technology for demanding applications. Our engineers work across hardware, software, firmware, and FPGA design to bring complex systems from concept through implementation and verification.

We are seeking a Junior FPGA Engineer to support FPGA and embedded system development for customer programs and internal research and development. Working with experienced engineers, you will develop FPGA logic, verify designs, and gain hands-on experience integrating programmable logic with processors and electronic hardware. We particularly welcome candidates with practical experience in both FPGA development and embedded systems through employment, internships, co-op assignments, research, or substantial academic projects.

What You'll Do

• 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 into your work.
• Document designs, interfaces, test procedures, and results.
• Communicate progress, ask questions, and identify issues that require additional guidance.
• Build your technical skills through mentoring, cross-training, and hands-on project work.

Requirements

• 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 the controlled data required for assigned projects, as described below.

Preferred

• 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

This position involves 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. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Work Environment

This role works closely with experienced engineers in an office and electronics laboratory environment. Regular onsite work at our Rochester, NY office supports training, mentoring, hardware access, and collaboration. Flexibility to work from home may be available as project activities and training needs allow.

Occasional work outside normal business hours may be necessary to support project milestones and integration activities.

ITAR and CUI Requirement

This position requires access to export-controlled technical data and Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI). Candidates must be U.S. citizens or otherwise eligible to access the specific ITAR-controlled data and CUI required for assigned projects without additional authorization.

Benefits

Vanteon offers a flexible work environment and diverse projects spanning defense, commercial, and green technologies for companies large and small. Employees can expand their skills through cross-training, education benefits, and a mentoring program that connects them with senior staff and provides opportunities to mentor junior engineers and co-op students. Employee-sponsored events create opportunities to connect beyond project work.

Vanteon values our team, and we offer a compensation package reflective of your experience and capabilities. Benefits include:

• Comprehensive BCBS medical, dental, and vision coverage; Starting in 2027, 80% sponsored by the company.
• 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.

EEO Statement

Vanteon is an equal opportunity employer. Qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, disability, genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.

Compensation

This position will have an annual salary, equity, and benefits. The salary range provided is a guideline rather than a fixed limit. Individual pay is determined by factors including geography, job-related skills, experience, and relevant education or training.

The pay range for this role is: 80,000-100,000 USD per year (ROC)

Due to contractual requirements, if hired you will be required to pass both a background and drug screening.