At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the design and implementation of cutting-edge wireless systems using DSP and FPGA technologies.
- Company: Innovative firm creating next-gen wireless analysis platforms for advanced engineering teams.
- Benefits: High hourly contract rate, flexible working, and hybrid role in Cambridge.
- Other info: Join a highly experienced team and enjoy significant influence over system design.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on sophisticated wireless systems and drive product innovation.
- Qualifications: Deep expertise in DSP, FPGA development, and software-defined radio systems.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 € per year.
FPGA DSP Architect opportunity with a firm building next-generation wireless analysis and measurement platforms used by some of the world’s most advanced engineering teams to develop and debug cutting-edge wireless devices. This is a senior technical leadership role for someone who thrives at the intersection of DSP, FPGA architecture, modem implementation, and SDR systems engineering.
You’ll take ownership of signal-processing architecture across sophisticated software-defined radio platforms, working hands-on across implementation, optimisation, and system-level design. You’ll join a highly experienced engineering team developing complex wireless instrumentation from first principles — combining deep digital signal processing expertise with real-world radio performance and hardware/software integration.
What You’ll Be Doing
- Owning DSP and FPGA architecture across SDR-based platforms
- Designing and implementing modem subsystems including:
- synchronisation and tracking loops
- channel estimation and equalisation
- modulation/demodulation chains
- FFT/filter pipelines
- FEC/error-correction schemes
- Developing high-performance FPGA implementations in Verilog/VHDL
- Defining partitioning between FPGA, embedded software, and host processing
- Working closely with RF, analogue, embedded, and protocol engineers on end-to-end radio system performance
- Driving technical direction, architecture decisions, and product innovation
- Solving complex real-world wireless and signal-processing challenges
- Supporting customer-facing technical discussions, demos, and industry engagement
What We’re Looking For
- Deep expertise in DSP and digital communication systems
- Strong hands-on experience with Software Defined Radio (SDR) platforms
- Advanced FPGA development experience (Verilog and/or VHDL)
- Strong understanding of modem implementation and radio signal chains
- Experience implementing synchronisation, tracking, equalisation, and filtering algorithms
- Knowledge of modulation schemes and forward error correction
- Experience balancing performance, latency, resource usage, and power constraints
- Comfortable operating with technical ownership and autonomy
Additional Experience That Would Be Valuable
- Xilinx / Vivado toolchains
- Low-power FPGA or embedded system design
- Exposure to RF or analogue hardware integration
- C++, Python, or MATLAB
- Bluetooth or wireless protocol experience
- System architecture and technical leadership experience
Why This Role?
This is an opportunity to work at implementation depth on sophisticated wireless systems — not just high-level modelling or theory. The role combines FPGA development, modem architecture, DSP optimisation, and real-world SDR engineering in a highly technical environment with significant influence over product direction and system design. The client are looking for people in these general areas, but if someone aligns with suitable skills they would be interested, the exact job roles are not set in stone and can be flexible for the right person. The client can be flexible with the onsite requirements and are paying a high hourly OUTSIDE IR35 Contract engagement rate for suitable candidates. Flexible working available. Cambridge-based hybrid role.
FPGA DSP Architect employer: X4 Technology
Join a pioneering firm in Cambridge that is at the forefront of wireless technology, where you will have the opportunity to lead and innovate in the development of next-generation DSP and FPGA architectures. With a strong emphasis on employee growth, a collaborative work culture, and flexible working arrangements, this role offers a unique chance to make a significant impact while working alongside some of the brightest minds in the industry. Enjoy competitive compensation and the freedom to shape your work environment in a dynamic and supportive setting.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land FPGA DSP Architect
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the industry, attend relevant meetups, and engage with professionals on platforms like LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can refer you directly.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Create a portfolio showcasing your FPGA and DSP projects. Whether it's a GitHub repository or a personal website, having tangible evidence of your expertise can set you apart from the competition.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for technical interviews by brushing up on key concepts related to DSP, FPGA architecture, and SDR systems. Practice explaining your thought process while solving problems, as this will demonstrate your deep understanding and hands-on experience.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! We’re always on the lookout for talented individuals like you. Plus, applying directly can sometimes give you an edge over other candidates.
We think you need these skills to ace FPGA DSP Architect
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV highlights your experience with DSP, FPGA architecture, and SDR systems. We want to see how your skills align with the role, so don’t be shy about showcasing relevant projects or achievements!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re passionate about wireless technology and how your background makes you a perfect fit for our team. Let us know what excites you about this opportunity!
Showcase Your Technical Skills:When detailing your experience, focus on specific tools and technologies you've used, like Verilog/VHDL or any SDR platforms. We love seeing hands-on experience, so include examples of your work that demonstrate your expertise.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy – just follow the prompts!
How to prepare for a job interview at X4 Technology
✨Know Your DSP and FPGA Inside Out
Make sure you brush up on your deep expertise in digital signal processing and FPGA architecture. Be ready to discuss specific projects where you've implemented complex algorithms or developed high-performance FPGA solutions. This will show that you not only understand the theory but can apply it practically.
✨Showcase Your Hands-On Experience
Prepare to talk about your hands-on experience with Software Defined Radio (SDR) platforms. Bring examples of how you've tackled real-world challenges in wireless systems, especially focusing on modem implementation and signal chains. This will demonstrate your ability to bridge the gap between theory and practical application.
✨Be Ready for Technical Discussions
Expect to engage in technical discussions about architecture decisions and product innovation. Brush up on your knowledge of synchronisation, tracking loops, and modulation schemes. Being able to articulate your thought process and decision-making will impress the interviewers.
✨Demonstrate Your Collaborative Spirit
Since this role involves working closely with RF, analogue, and embedded engineers, be prepared to discuss how you've collaborated in past projects. Highlight your ability to drive technical direction while also being a team player. This will show that you can take ownership while still valuing input from others.
