Controls Engineer – FPGA Firmware

Role Overview

We are seeking innovative Controls Engineers to implement high speed controls solutions in FPGA firmware for target tracking, laser beam pointing and other systems in Inertia’s fusion program. This position involves designing, developing systems for high speed image and sensor fusion for controls applications. The system comprises several optical sensors requiring real-time data acquisition and analysis.

Responsibilities:

• Design and deploy a complete FPGA architecture, including hardware selection, firmware development (VHDL/Verilog), and software integration to support Inertia’s target injection/tracking/engagement systems

• Develop deterministic, low-latency control loops and high-throughput data processing pipelines to meet stringent performance requirements.

• Develop and optimize image processing algorithms for capabilities such as noise reduction, feature detection, high-precision pixel/sub-pixel localization, etc.

• Verify and validate control logic, image processing accuracy, and timing through offline simulations, hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) testing, and timing analysis

• Establish and maintain the software development platform which includes configuration and build management

• Regularly report on engineering status, milestones, and technical risks

• Run offline simulations as necessary to verify control system software

• Generate data visualization and analysis tools as needed

• Collaborate with scientists, laser and system engineers to meet specifications.

• Interface with vendors and external suppliers.

Qualifications:

• Required

• Bachelor’s degree or greater in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Mechatronics, or a related field.

• 5+ yrs experience in FPGA control systems design and development, using tools such as Verilog, Vivado, Quartus, and LabVIEW along with associated hardware.

• 5+ yrs experience writing python, C++ and/or LabView code.

• 5+ yrs experience in design, integrating, verification, and troubleshooting sensor I/O including digital cameras (GigE Vision, Camera Link, CoaXPress)

• Proven ability to perform “hands-on” hardware setup including instrument selection, installation, cable design, and interface troubleshooting

• Preferred

• Experience with defining and developing image processing routines

• Strong proficiency in high-speed communication protocols and hardware interfaces

• Familiarity with LabVIEW, MATLAB/Simulink, or ModelSim for rapid prototyping and simulation

• Familiarity with ML-enhanced control systems.

Salary and Benefits:

• The base salary range for this role is $135,000 - $200,000; The pay range provided is an estimated base range for this role. Exact compensation may vary based on skills, experience, and education.

• We offer market-competitive compensation and an excellent benefits program, including Medical, Dental, and Vision plans, company-paid holidays, matching 401k, and more!

About Inertia:

Inertia is taking the most direct, scientifically-proven path to commercializing fusion, leveraging the only successful achievement of fusion ignition, using a process that was pioneered at the U.S. Department of Energy’s (DOE) Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL). With groundbreaking innovation, transformative technology, and multi-year investment, Inertia is committed to commercializing fusion energy in the next decade.