ThinKom Solutions

Job Summary

The Digital RF Engineer specializes in coherent RF signal combining and beam forming. This position is responsible for being the technical lead to architect, design, and develop robust FPGA-based solutions within a C++/Xilinx HLS environment. This position creates and optimizes high-bandwidth RF architectures and turning theoretical digital signal processing into efficient silicon reality.

Essential Job Duties and Responsibilities

Develop coherent combining and beamforming modules using C++ and Xilinx HLS, ensuring precise phase alignment and time delay across multiple channels.
Requirements capturing, design definition and implementation of VHDL detailed designs.
Implement VITA 49-compliant data packetization for high-speed IF or RF data distribution.
Design and fine-tune DSP blocks (e.g., FFT, filtering, NCO, cross-correlation) to meet stringent real-time and resource utilization requirements.
Work closely with cross-functional teams to ensure signal integrity and minimize latency in large-scale, multi-channel systems.
Use Vivado (or Vitis) for synthesis, simulation, timing closure, and debug.
Create testbenches in C++/System Verilog/Python to validate functional correctness and phase coherence across all channels.
Provide guidance to junior engineers, reviewing design approaches, and ensuring best practices for coherent signal processing.
Collaborate with firmware, software, and hardware teams to define project requirements and deliver high-quality solutions on schedule.
Other duties as assigned.

Skills and/or Experience Needed

MS or BS in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or related engineering field.
5+ years of professional experience in FPGA development, specifically in signal processing and high-speed I/O.
Proven expertise with Xilinx HLS (Vivado / Vitis) and writing performance-critical C++ for FPGA synthesis.
Hands-on experience with coherent combining, beamforming, or similar multi-channel synchronization techniques.
Strong knowledge of VITA 49, including metadata handling and packet-based transport of digitized signals.
Knowledge of Software-Defined Radio (SDR) is a plus.
Experience with Xilinx RFSoC is a plus.
Proficiency in VHDL/Verilog and FPGA design methodologies.
Experience with Vivado Design Suite and Xilinx SDK.
Familiarity with high-bandwidth networking protocols (Ethernet up to 100Gb, PCIe, or similar).
Solid grasp of digital signal processing fundamentals (filters, FFTs, channelization, interference cancellation).
Proficiency in FPGA development flows (Vivado, ModelSim, or similar) and lab debugging (ILAs, scopes).
Excellent communication and collaboration skills.
Advanced degree (MSEE/PhD) with a focus on DSP, RF Communications, or FPGA acceleration preferred.
Experience with additional standards/protocols relevant to software-defined radio or phased-array systems preferred.
Familiarity with scripting languages (Python, TCL) for automation and testing is highly desirable.
Track record of publishing or patenting innovations in signal processing or hardware acceleration, highly desirable.

Language Skills

Interpersonal skills to effectively work with internal peers as well as working effectively with suppliers and customers.
Ability to effectively present information in team meetings and design reviews, as needed.
Ability to communicate clearly and effectively in verbal and written form.

Other Abilities

Must have substantial reasoning and problem-solving abilities.
Ability to meet deadlines and work extended hours, as needed.
Strong analytical skills and solid work ethic.

Additional Requirements

Must be eligible to obtain and hold a US DoD Security Clearance in support of US Government contracts/subcontracts.
Willing to be in office 5-days/week.

Physical Demands

This position uses a computer terminal to access, input, and retrieve data.
This position may be subject to interruptions that may cause a change in immediate priorities and/or work focus.
While performing duties to this position, employee is occasionally required to stand, walk, sit, stoop, reach, and/or bend.
May occasionally lift and/or move parts, files or boxes up to 40 pounds.
May be subjected to occasional irregular or extended work hours.
May be required to sit for extended lengths of time.
Must be able to work in an environment that may be subjected to occasional loud noises, hazardous materials, chemicals, and electromagnetic energy.