Early-Career FPGA/Embedded Systems Engineer (Quantum Networking)

Location: Cambridge, UK; on-site

Company

hirify.global develops quantum photonic technology and scalable quantum networking infrastructure in collaboration with leading companies and academic groups.

What you will do

• Design, develop, and verify RTL code for Xilinx Zynq and Ultrascale devices.
• Develop and test embedded C or Rust code and real-time control systems using ARTIQ Sinara hardware.
• Support current hardware platforms and contribute to the next-generation platform based on CERN’s White Rabbit technology.
• Collaborate with software, electronics, hardware, optical engineering, and physics specialists to define requirements and implement solutions.
• Develop debugging tools, documentation, test plans, technical reports, CI/CD pipelines, and automated release flows.

Requirements

• Foundational understanding of digital design and RTL principles, with experience in SystemVerilog, Verilog, and/or VHDL.
• Experience with or strong understanding of FPGA development, ideally using Xilinx or Altera devices.
• Familiarity with SPI, I2C, Ethernet, testbenches, simulation, clock-domain crossing, synthesis, and timing.
• Experience with a scripting language, preferably Python.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, including clear technical documentation.
• Early-career candidates with relevant academic, project, internship, placement, or personal-project experience are encouraged to apply.

Nice to have

• Experience with low-latency or real-time systems, embedded C or Rust, Linux, and Arm or RISC-V debugging.
• Experience with Cocotb, SystemVerilog Assertions, formal verification, or verification workflows.
• Experience with RF signal generation, DDS, RF communication protocols, modulation, and high-speed DACs or ADCs.

Culture & Benefits

• Inclusive workplace that values diversity, collaboration, curiosity, and continuous learning.
• Flexible working options alongside an on-site role.
• Private medical and dental cover, group death-in-service cover, and enhanced paid family leave.
• 28 days of annual leave including a company shutdown period, plus UK public holidays and the option to purchase additional leave.
• On-site gym membership, cycle scheme, office refreshments, and access to the Cambridge Botanical Gardens.
• Visa sponsorship available.