FPGA Engineering Intern

As an FPGA Engineering Intern at Impinj, you will engage in several key activities, including collaborating with a multidisciplinary team to design and implement hardware updates for our FPGA production platform. You will also work on transitioning our existing bus architecture to a more versatile common bus protocol using Xilinx IP cores. Additionally, you'll be responsible for verifying design updates through simulations and hardware tests, all while gaining meaningful experience in an innovative work environment.

To qualify for the FPGA Engineering Intern position at Impinj, candidates should be pursuing a Bachelor's or Master’s degree in electrical engineering, computer engineering, or a related field. Familiarity with hardware engineering, FPGA/ASIC design, and verification processes is essential. Furthermore, candidates should possess skills in programming languages such as SystemVerilog, Verilog, VHDL, Python, and C/C++, as well as an understanding of common bus protocols like AXI and APB.

During your internship as an FPGA Engineering Intern at Impinj, you will enhance a range of technical skills. You'll gain practical experience with hardware design and implementation, work extensively with FPGA simulation environments, and become adept at using tools like Cocotb for verification. You'll also deepen your understanding of RF concepts essential for RFID applications, along with developing your programming skills in SystemVerilog, Verilog, and C/C++.

Absolutely! The Impinj Summer Internship Program is designed to provide interns with a holistic learning experience. As an FPGA Engineering Intern, you'll have access to mentorship from experienced professionals, engage in interactive learning sessions, and benefit from networking opportunities with peers and senior leaders. This robust support structure aids your professional development and prepares you for a successful career.

The compensation for the FPGA Engineering Intern position at Impinj typically ranges from $26.00 to $36.00 per hour, depending on various factors such as the complexity of the role, job duties, and the candidate's relevant experience. Additionally, Impinj offers competitive benefits, including healthcare and a 401(k) plan, ensuring that you are supported during your internship.

When answering this question, highlight specific projects or coursework where you've worked with FPGA design and verification. Discuss tools and languages you've used like SystemVerilog, VHDL, or any simulation environments. Showing examples of your problem-solving skills in FPGA-related tasks can make your answer stand out.

To answer effectively, briefly explain what bus protocols are, particularly focusing on AXI and APB. You can mention any projects where you've used these protocols or coursework that covered them, highlighting your understanding of how these systems interconnect and their importance in effective hardware communication.

Use the STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) method to outline a specific challenge you faced in a technical project, including your role and the actions you took to resolve the issue. Keep your focus on technical details while showcasing your analytical and collaborative skills.

Discuss the programming languages you have experience with, emphasizing SystemVerilog, VHDL, and Python. Provide examples of how you've applied these languages in projects or class assignments and be prepared to elaborate on your coding proficiency.

Showcase your understanding of the IoT and its significant impact on various industries, particularly how FPGAs facilitate connectivity and efficiency. Relate this knowledge to the projects you would be working on at Impinj to demonstrate keenness for the industry.

Provide a clear explanation of RF concepts such as frequency, modulation, and signal propagation. Relate these concepts specifically to how they play a crucial role in RFID technology—showing that you grasp their importance enhances your interview response.

Discuss your teamwork philosophy, perhaps highlighting past experiences working with multidisciplinary teams. Mention specific communication methods you use and how you handle conflicts or differing opinions, emphasizing the value of collaboration in a tech setting.

Reflect on what attracted you to Impinj, focusing on its innovative nature and commitment to connecting everyday things to the Internet. Be genuine about your enthusiasm for the company's mission and how it aligns with your own career aspirations, which shows a solid cultural fit.

Articulate your career aspirations clearly, tying them back to the FPGA Engineering Intern role. Discuss how the skills and experiences gained during this internship can help you achieve your professional objectives, demonstrating foresight and a growth mindset.

Share specific resources, such as journals, online courses, or industry blogs you follow, to maintain knowledge about FPGA advancements. This shows your commitment to continuous learning and adapting to the fast-paced tech landscape.