FPGA Engineer – High-Speed Optical Communication Systems
Vilnius, Lithuania (Onsite Preferred – EU Remote Available)
EU Citizens Only
Cutting-Edge Satellite Lasercom | ESA/NATO Projects | Real Flight Missions
We’re partnering with one of Europe’s most exciting deep-tech space companies – developing advanced laser communication terminals for satellites, naval platforms, and secure ground systems.
They’re looking for an FPGA Engineer to join their fast-growing, elite engineering team. This role will focus on developing high-throughput, low-latency modems and digital signal processing pipelines that will fly on missions already secured with ESA, NATO, and defense partners.
You’ll contribute directly to the design and verification of space-qualified FPGA-based systems, powering optical terminals that will launch as soon as next year.
Your Role
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Implement signal processing and logic in VHDL or Verilog for FPGA/SoC platforms
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Design, simulate, and optimize high-speed modems and DSP systems
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Develop reusable testbenches and verification environments
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Support timing closure and clock domain crossing (CDC) strategies
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Debug FPGA systems using tools like ILA/ChipScope
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Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams across optics, mechanical, and RF subsystems
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Contribute to both ESA-aligned modem projects and internal IP development
✅ What You Bring
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Strong experience with VHDL (preferred) or Verilog
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Experience creating testbenches in VHDL or SystemVerilog
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Knowledge of CDC methodology and clocking architectures
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Hands-on with timing constraints (SDC) and FPGA debug tools
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Proficiency with lab equipment (oscilloscopes, logic analyzers, etc.)
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EU Citizenship (due to export and regulatory restrictions)
⭐ Nice to Have
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Experience with Microchip PolarFire FPGA platforms
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Familiarity with Ethernet/IP protocols and FEC/DSP algorithms
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Background in modem development or high-data-rate communication systems
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Scripting in Python or TCL, and use of test frameworks like cocotb
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Ability to interpret hardware schematics and collaborate with PCB/EE teams
Why This Role Is Unique
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Real Flight Hardware: Your work will launch – multiple missions already lined up
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Public + Proprietary Projects: Start with ESA-backed SDA modem, then move to internal designs
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Not Just Hardware: Join a company building a full optical communications ecosystem – terminals, software, and services
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Elite Team: Work with engineers from top European space and laser companies
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Rapid Growth: Backed by VCs, recognized by ESA & NATO, and scaling quickly
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Minimal Bureaucracy, Maximum Impact: You’ll move fast and see your work ship
This is a rare opportunity to work on state-of-the-art space communications – without getting buried in a slow-moving corporate environment. If you’re passionate about FPGAs, optical systems, and building the future of satellite connectivity, let’s talk.
Apply now or reach out for a confidential conversation.
#fpga #vhdl #opticalcommunications #spacejobs #europeanspace #signalprocessing #dsp #lasercom #nowhiring
Darwin Recruitment is acting as an Employment Agency in relation to this vacancy.
Adam Slade