> Markdown version of [/jobs/ext/2979977-fpga-system-architect](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/jobs/ext/2979977-fpga-system-architect). Every page supports `.md` or `Accept: text/markdown`. Links point to the HTML versions so they work for humans too. Agent guide: [/agents.md](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/agents.md).

---

# FPGA System Architect

- **Company:** National Radio Astronomy Observatory
- **Location:** Charlottesville, VA, United States
- **Salary:** $155,000.0 - $195,000.0
- **Contract:** Permanent contract
- **Skills:** Computer-Aided Design, Boolean Algebra, C++ (Programming Language), Code Review, Embedded C, Firmware, Field-Programmable Gate Array (FPGA), Hardware Description Language, PCI Express, Signal Processing, Systems Architecture, Verilog, VHSIC Hardware Description Language (VHDL), Git, Software Version Control
- **Published:** September 18, 2026
- **Apply:** https://find.jobs/jobs-near-me/apply/ats-redirect/?id=2975197913-2

## About the Role

* FPGA design (VHDL/Verilog/System
 * Verilog)
 * Digital signal processing (DSP) for RF/communication systems
 * High-speed interfaces (PCIe, 10/40
 * Gb
 * E, JESD, DDR)
 * So
 * C/MPSo
 * C platforms (Xilinx/Intel)
 * Hardware description languages and simulation tools
 * Timing closure and FPGA implementation flows
 * Embedded C/C++ for firmware and control
 * System-level architecture and requirements analysis
 * Version control and CI for hardware (Git, pipelines)
 * Technical documentation and design reviews

## Description

The FPGA System Architect at the National Radio Astronomy Observatory will lead architecture and implementation of advanced FPGA-based signal processing and control systems for world-class radio telescopes. Working within the Engineering & Design department in a collaborative, research-focused environment, you will define system architectures, develop FPGA designs, and integrate high-speed DSP pipelines that enable cutting-edge astronomy and astrophysics. This role partners closely with scientists and engineers worldwide, offers access to state-of-the-art technology, and supports continuous learning and professional growth., * Architect FPGA-based signal processing and control systems for advanced radio telescopes.

 * Lead end-to-end FPGA design, simulation, verification, and integration with digital/analog subsystems.
 * Collaborate with astronomers, engineers, and software teams to translate scientific requirements into system architectures.
 * Optimize throughput, latency, and reliability of high-speed DSP and data acquisition pipelines.
 * Define interface specifications, timing constraints, and design standards for FPGA platforms.
 * Perform design reviews, code reviews, and verification planning for FPGA and digital logic designs.
 * Develop and maintain documentation, including architecture diagrams and design specifications.
 * Guide technology selection for FPGAs, high-speed I/O, and supporting hardware.
 * Mentor engineers and contribute to continuous improvement of engineering processes.
 * Support observatory operations with troubleshooting and upgrades of deployed FPGA systems.


## Related Videos

- [How a Small Team Shrank a Microsoft Monorepo by 94%](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/1236-how-a-small-team-shrank-a-microsoft-monorepo-by-94)
- [Playing Pong on a shoulder press machine](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/100140-playing-pong-on-a-shoulder-press-machine)
- [More efficient software for more efficient microchips](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/1164-more-efficient-software-for-more-efficient-microchips)
- [Git for Code Reviews](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/429-git-for-code-reviews)
- [Strange New Worlds: shaping the future of the digital age](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/677-strange-new-worlds-shaping-the-future-of-the-digital-age)
- [Agent Smith Gets Hardware: Autonomous IoT Hacking From Debug Port to Cloud API](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/100258-agent-smith-gets-hardware-autonomous-iot-hacking-from-debug-port-to-cloud-api)

## Related Articles

- [How We Built a Worry-Free System That Runs for 10+ Years – And What We’d Do Again](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/751-how-we-built-a-worry-free-system-that-runs-for-10-years-and-what-we-d-do-again)
- [ I Gave a Video Editor More Autonomy Than a Trading Bot. On Purpose.](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/773-i-gave-a-video-editor-more-autonomy-than-a-trading-bot-on-purpose)
- [Dev Digest 121 - AI goes offline](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/456-dev-digest-121-ai-goes-offline)
- [Dev Digest 129 - Now that's what I call private data!](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/468-dev-digest-129-now-that-s-what-i-call-private-data)
- [Dev Digest 134 - Where pixels sing?](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/477-dev-digest-134-where-pixels-sing)
- [Dev Digest 120 - Apple and peers](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/455-dev-digest-120-apple-and-peers)