Communications DSP Engineer

Aalyria • Livermore, CA

6h • Hybrid

About The Position

The Aalyria Space team is seeking a highly skilled DSP Engineer to develop next-generation modem technologies for free space optical communication systems. This role sits at the intersection of advanced digital signal processing, system architecture, and real-world hardware implementation. You will design and optimize DSP algorithms and architectures that enable robust, high-throughput links across challenging channels, helping push beyond current limits in coherent communications. You’ll collaborate closely with cross-functional teams spanning ASIC/FPGA design, RF/optical hardware, and system engineering to translate advanced algorithms into efficient, deployable modem solutions.

Requirements

• Active security clearance, or the eligibility to obtain one.
• M.S. or Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or related field.
• Strong foundation in: Digital signal processing, Communication theory, High-speed communication system design
• Hands-on experience with coherent DSP or high-speed SerDes/optical systems.
• Proficiency in MATLAB, Python, and/or C/C++ for modeling and algorithm development.
• Experience with: Adaptive equalization and synchronization algorithms, FEC techniques (e.g., LDPC, Viterbi, soft decoding), System-level simulation and performance analysis
• Familiarity with ASIC/FPGA implementation flows and hardware constraints.
• Ability to translate theoretical algorithms into practical, power- and area-efficient implementations.
• Strong problem-solving skills and ability to work across multidisciplinary teams.
• Hands-on lab experience with high-speed communication systems.
• Experience with developing cycle accurate fixed point system models.

Nice To Haves

• Experience with coherent optical communication systems.
• Knowledge of IMDD or optical transport systems.
• Experience with time-interleaved ADCs and calibration techniques.
• Familiarity with industry standards (OIF, OpenROADM, IEEE Ethernet).
• Hands-on lab experience with high-speed communication systems.
• Exposure to RTL design (VHDL/SystemVerilog) or firmware development.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and optimize coherent DSP algorithms for high-speed communication systems
• Architect end-to-end modem DSP chains including equalization, timing recovery, carrier recovery, and FEC integration.
• Perform system-level modeling, simulation, and performance analysis, including link budgets and channel impairments.
• Develop advanced algorithms such as: Adaptive equalization, Timing and carrier synchronization loops, Impairment mitigation
• Evaluate and model optical and electrical channels, including optical components, ADC/DAC, AFE, and mixed-signal impairments.
• Define DSP architecture specifications for ASIC/FPGA implementation, ensuring efficient mapping to hardware.
• Collaborate with hardware and firmware teams to integrate DSP algorithms into modem designs.
• Support lab bring-up, validation, and characterization of modem systems.
• Analyze relevant industry standards (e.g., OIF, Ethernet, optical transport) and incorporate them into designs.

Benefits

• Innovative Environment: Work at a cutting-edge company shaping the future of aerospace communications.
• Impactful Work: Directly contribute to critical national security programs and initiatives.
• Growth Opportunities: Expand your career with opportunities for professional development and advancement.
• Inclusive Culture: Be part of a collaborative, supportive, and inclusive workplace where your contributions matter.
• Flexibility: Flexible working arrangements including hybrid remote/in-office schedules.
• Compensation and Equity: Competitive salary, comprehensive benefits (401(k), dental, vision, health, life insurance), paid time off, and equity options.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: Ph.D. or professional degree
• Number of Employees: 1-10 employees