Head of FPGA Engineering

Northwood is a modern space infrastructure company bringing the benefits of space to the masses through advanced communications technology. We are building a global network of phased array ground stations that enable real-time, reliable communication for satellite missions such as national security, global connectivity, and disaster response. With a vertically integrated approach, Northwood designs, builds, and rapidly deploys scalable systems that power the next generation of space missions. If you like solving complex challenges and seeing your work deployed around the world with real impact, Northwood is the place to do it. Head of FPGA Engineering As Head of FPGA at Northwood Space, you will be responsible for executing on our ambitious digital roadmap to connect Earth and space. You would own the FPGA design for Northwood’s phased array systems, which integrate high-speed signal processing and data transport. Simultaneously, you would be laying a strong foundation with FPGA best practices and automated infrastructure. As a player-coach, you lead by example and by providing the context and mentorship for a team of 5 - 10 FPGA engineers. Responsibilities Guide project architecture and work with other teams to nail down interfaces and requirements. Plan and prioritize work for the FPGA team to deliver mission‑critical projects on aggressive timelines. Mentor and develop the existing team of ~5 FPGA engineers, in addition to recruiting new talent to support upcoming projects. Steer the development of FPGA internal processes and infrastructure that allows the team to move rapidly. Dive in as deep as necessary to keep projects moving. Basic Qualifications 7-10+ years of professional experience and typically at least a Bachelors in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, etc. Demonstrated ability to manage teams and lead complex projects Expert in RTL Design (SystemVerilog or VHDL) Experience working on FPGA SoCs like Zynq or similar Experience with FPGA build systems and automated testing Experience with DSP and/or networking on FPGA Experience with schematic review and hardware bring‑up Proficient in Python Strong work ethic and drive to succeed Ability to thrive in a fast paced and demanding start‑up atmosphere Willing to work extended hours and weekends as needed In‑person in Torrance Preferred Qualifications Startup experience Aerospace experience Experience with C/C++ or rust Additional Requirements This position requires successfully obtaining and maintaining a Top Secret Security Clearance as a condition of employment. While the clearance may not be immediately necessary upon hire, we encourage you to initiate the application process promptly upon accepting this offer. Your ability to secure the necessary clearance is essential for fulfilling key responsibilities of the role. Should you be unable to obtain it, Northwood Space reserves the right to modify or terminate your employment to align with optional needs. Compensation and Benefits Compensation at Northwood Space is based on role, level, location, and alignment with market data. Individual base pay is determined on a case‑by‑case basis and may vary depending on job‑related skills, education, experience, and technical expertise. Base salary is just one part of your total rewards package at Northwood. In addition to base salary, Northwood Space offers long‑term incentives such as company stock options and discretionary performance bonuses. Benefits include equity, comprehensive medical, vision, and dental coverage, flexible spending accounts, flexible time off, 10 or more paid holidays per year, retirement savings plans, and opportunities for professional development. Additional Information If you need a reasonable accommodation as part of your application for employment or interviews with us, please let us know. To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) you must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S., protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State. Northwood Space is an Equal Opportunity Employer; employment with Northwood Space is governed on the basis of merit, competence and qualifications and will not be influenced in any manner by race, color, religion, gender, national origin/ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability or any other legally protected status. #J-18808-Ljbffr Northwood Space