Firmware Engineer (South Africa)

Simera Sense is a leading provider of Earth observation camera solutions for the global small satellite market. Committed to excellence and innovation, we deliver superior products and services to our worldwide customer base.
We are currently seeking a Firmware Engineer who is passionate about FPGA design and solving complex technical challenges. In this role, you will contribute to the design, development, and validation of robust firmware that sits at the core of our next-generation products. You will work closely with electronics, systems, and mechanical engineers in an agile, collaborative environment where technical excellence and innovation are part of everyday work.
Position Type:
Full-time
Remote Opportunity
: No
Report To:
Group Electro-optical and Embedded Systems Manager
Location
: South Africa
Job Purpose
:
Design, develop, and maintain high-performance FPGA firmware for embedded systems, ensuring reliable operation and integration with advanced electro-optical components used in space missions.

Responsibilities

:
Firmware Development
Design and implement FPGA firmware for space-related electronic systems, from concept to qualification.
Develop software for embedded microcontrollers
Testing and Debugging
Conduct thorough testing and debugging of firmware to ensure optimal performance
Utilise simulation tools and real-time testing environments to validate firmware functionality
Docume
ntation
Create detailed documentation for firmware designs, testing procedures and results.
Maintain records of firmware versions and modifications
Innovation
Participate in research and development activities to innovate new firmware solutions
Explore new technologies and methodologies to enhance firmware performance and reliability
Required Qualifications
:
Bachelor’s Honours Degree in Engineering or Bachelor of Science in Engineering
Required Experience
:
2 to 5 years
of experience in FPGA-based firmware design, development, and testing
Experience in developing firmware for embedded systems based on FPGA platforms
Proficiency in programming languages such as C and VHDL
Experience in high-speed FPGA design using VHDL
Experience with FPGA tools and platforms, such as Xilinx or Microchip
Hands-on experience with testing and debugging firmware in real-time environments
Experience in Python scripting
Familiarity with simulation tools and hardware-in-the-loop testing
Understanding of high-reliability design practices
Experience working in cross-functional teams, including hardware engineers, software developers, and systems engineers
Strong documentation skills for maintaining detailed records of firmware designs and modifications
Recommendations:
Master’s degree in electronic engineering
Certifications in embedded systems, FPGA design, or related areas
Familiarity with Microchip and/or AMD (Xilinx) FPGA design tools
Experience with high-speed FPGA serial transceiver designs for high-bandwidth interfaces such as 10 Gigabit Ethernet, Space Fibre or Aurora.
Experience in CMOS sensor based electro-optical designs
Understanding of radiation effects on electronics
Experience in environmental testing and acceptance testing to high-quality standards
Familiarity with Siemens Teamcenter
What we offer
The opportunity to work in the fast-growing space industry.
Niche global market for optical payloads for microsatellites.
Cutting-edge technology at your fingertips
A competitive salary
A friendly working environment.
Ready to make an impact?
Apply now by submitting your CV.