Senior FPGA/Hardware Engineer

Company Description

Liberty Defense provides advanced, multi-technology security solutions for detecting concealed weapons in high-traffic areas and locations demanding elevated security, such as airports, stadiums, and schools. The company's HEXWAVE product, developed in collaboration with MIT, offers modular and scalable protection with stand-off detection capabilities for both metallic and non-metallic weapons. Liberty Defense's portfolio also includes cutting-edge technologies like the High-Definition Advanced Imaging Technology (HD-AIT) body scanner and shoe scanner for enhanced aviation checkpoint security. By leveraging innovative technologies, Liberty Defense is devoted to safeguarding communities and ensuring peace of mind through superior detection solutions.

Role Description

We’re hiring an experienced Senior FPGA / Hardware Engineer to help develop advanced radar and millimeter-wave (mmWave) people screening platforms. You’ll work on FPGA-based system designs spanning low-level hardware control, high-speed data movement, reusable IP, and hardware-accelerated algorithms/filters. You’ll partner closely with RF, Mechanical, Systems, and Software teams to bring new designs from concept through integration, test, and production readiness.

As a small, fast-moving team, priorities can shift—this role require comfort contributing across RTL, integration, verification, and hands-on lab bring-up as needed to deliver system-level results.

Essential Functions:

· Architect, implement, and integrate FPGA solutions for system-level designs (control, data paths, and high-speed interfaces).

· Develop RTL in Verilog/VHDL, including IP integration, custom logic, and performance-critical pipelines.

· Design and debug high-speed interfaces and I/O subsystems such as DDR, flash, PCIe, 1G/10G Ethernet, SPI, I²C, and clocking/synchronization.

· Execute verification using simulation (RTL and gate-level where applicable) and support board bring-up and system integration.

· Drive hardware debug and root-cause analysis using lab equipment (oscilloscope, logic analyzer, etc.).

· Collaborate with hw/embedded/software engineers to support drivers, data capture, and end-to-end system validation.

· Contribute to design reviews, documentation, and engineering best practices to support reliable, manufacturable products.

Essential Knowledge, Skills & Experience:

· BS in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or related field with 7 years of relevant experience.

· Proficiency in Verilog and/or VHDL with experience shipping FPGA-based products.

· Experience developing on Xilinx FPGAs.

· Experience with verification methodologies and simulation-based debug (RTL; gate-level as applicable).

· Hands-on experience with hardware bring-up and lab debug tools (oscilloscope, logic analyzer, etc.).

· Experience with common FPGA peripherals/interfaces: DDR, PCIe, Ethernet, SPI, I²C, flash, clocking/sync.

· Strong communication skills and willingness to take ownership across disciplines.

Preferred (Bonus) Qualifications:

· Analog/digital board development experience.

· Experience with RF/microwave/mmWave systems.

· Experience Spartan7, Virtex /Kintex UltraScale families.

· Experience with Python and/or MATLAB for analysis, automation, or algorithm prototyping.

· Familiarity with DFM/DFA and working with manufacturing partners.

· Prior experience in security screening / detection technology products.

Working Environment and Physical Requirements

The physical demands and work environment characteristics described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. 

• Primarily office-based environment with standard office equipment.
• Must be able to manage multiple projects and deadlines in a dynamic environment.

Disclaimer:

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and complexity of the work being performed by personnel assigned to this classification, and do not represent an exhaustive list of all tasks, duties, and responsibilities required of personnel assigned to this position.

• Liberty Defense is an Equal Opportunity Employer and are committed to a workplace free of discrimination and harassment. We recruit, hire, and promote associates without regard to race, color, sex, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, veteran status, or any other status protected by federal, state or local laws