Spacecraft represent the most pressing unmet need across the entire aerospace industry. As more launch vehicles come online and the cost to orbit decreases, more companies launching payloads to space continue to emerge.

For the first time in history, this influx of payload companies combined with reduced launch costs has resulted in a massive increase in need for commercial spacecraft platforms, known as satellite buses. These buses hold the payloads of our customers and are flown on launch vehicles.

Apex manufactures these satellite buses at scale using a combination of software, vertical integration, and hardware that is designed for manufacturing. Our spacecraft enable the future of society: ranging from earth observation to communications and more.

We’d love for you to join us on our mission of providing humankind access to the galaxy beyond our planet. 

About the Role

As an FPGA engineer on the flight Software team, you will design, develop, and own the digital circuits driving the autonomous operation of Apex’s satellite buses. You will be responsible for developing mission critical FPGA solutions that need to operate reliably 24/7, ensuring that Apex’s spacecraft continue to operate in all scenarios.
In this role, you will work closely with both internal teams and external customers, aligning your solutions with company objectives and user requirements. We are looking for motivated engineers who are eager to solve complex problems with a focus on practicality and scalability, and who thrive in a dynamic, fast-paced environment.

Responsibilities:

• Design, implement and own mission critical firmware applications for satellite systems.

• Deploying firmware and supporting hardware integration during initial spacecraft during commissioning to firmware is functional in all scenarios.

• Own firmware solutions through the full lifecycle from initial design to deployment.

• Perform unit testing, integration testing, and system-level testing of firmware components, identifying and resolving any defects or issues.

• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to baseline product requirements and technical roadmaps.

Requirements:

• Strong proficiency in languages such as Verilog or VHDL and working knowledge of C\C++.

• B.S. or M.S. in Electrical Engineering, Electrical Engineering & Computer Engineering, Computer Engineering, or Computer Science.

• 6+ years of relevant industry experience.

• Experience using tools such as: Xilinx, Altera, Quartus, Hyperlynx, ModelSim, and OrCAD Capture.

• Experience with real time systems running on distributed hardware.

• Knowledge of embedded Linux operating systems, device trees and interfacing FPGA logic to core software executables.

• Experience with serial protocols such as SPI. I2C, UART, SpaceWire.

• Experience with verification, simulation and testing of FPGA firmware and embedded systems.

• Familiarity with network protocols (TCP/IP, UDP), secure communication systems, and encryption.

• Experience debugging hardware using tools such as the logic analyzers, oscilloscopes and serial protocol analyzers.

• Familiarity with hardware schematics and ability to contribute to hardware design.

• Familiarity with scripting and automation utilizing tools such as Python, Bash, TCL, and Docker.

Why Join Apex?

Apex believes in creating a work environment that you look forward to embracing every day. Our employees love working at Apex, and we want you to love it too. We're a fast-growing startup backed by $200M in Series D funding, and we invest heavily in our people from day one.

What We Offer For Full-time Employees:

• Shared upside: Receive equity in Apex, letting you benefit from the work you create

• Best-in-class healthcare: 100% company-paid medical, dental, and vision for you and your dependents, plus $100k life insurance at no cost

• Comprehensive PTO package to reset and recharge - starting at 15 days vacation, growing to 20+ days annually, plus 10 paid holidays

• Competitive 401(k) plan with generous matching - 100% match on first 3%, 50% on next 2%

• 8 weeks paid parental leave plus childcare reimbursement up to $350/day for work-related travel

• Daily catered lunch and unlimited snacks to keep you fueled throughout the day

• Vibrant community: Monthly office BBQs, pickleball tournaments, run club, and social gatherings for you and your family

• Your dream desk setup and all the tools you need to be your most productive self

• World-class Playa Vista office with EV chargers, with the benefit of in-person collaboration with amazing coworkers and flexibility to integrate work and life

• Real impact opportunity: Work alongside experts from aerospace, new space, and other cutting-edge industries to make a lasting difference

Ready to join a team where your contributions matter and your future is bright? Let's build something extraordinary together.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Apex Technology, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. Candidates and employees are always evaluated based on merit, qualifications, and performance. We will never discriminate on the basis of race, color, gender, national origin, ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability, or any other legally protected status.