FAST Lab – Senior FPGA Engineer

About the role

Join us at BAE Systems’ FAST Labs, where you'll be part of a team pushing the boundaries of electronic innovation to enhance national security. From enhancing situational awareness for pilots to supporting soldiers in the field, our cutting-edge electronics directly impact defense applications including Radio Frequency Electronic Warfare (RFEW), Electro-Optical/Infrared (EOIR), Communications, and Radar systems.

Responsibilities

• Lead or support the design, development, and verification of complex FPGA-based systems supporting critical defense applications.
• Architect solutions, guide technical decisions, and work within a team of engineers throughout the development lifecycle.
• Contribute to innovative research products in a dynamic environment.

Requirements

• BS in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or a closely related field with 4+ years of experience.
• Eligible for a Secret Security Clearance.
• HDL Proficiency: Expertise in a Hardware Description Language (HDL) such as VHDL or Verilog, including experience with code and design reviews.
• Digital Logic Design & Architecture: Deep understanding of digital logic design principles, FPGA architectures (e.g., Xilinx, Intel), and system-level design considerations relevant to signal processing and real-time systems.
• FPGA Development Tool Expertise: Strong proficiency with FPGA development tools from Xilinx (Vivado, ISE) or Intel (Quartus Prime), including synthesis, place & route, timing closure, and debugging.
• Simulation & Verification Methodologies: Experience with digital logic simulation tools (e.g. QuestSim, Xcelium) and fixed point modeling for RTL verification.
• Programming Skills: Proficiency in at least one programming language (e.g. C, C++, Python, MATLAB) for embedded systems development, testbench creation, and data analysis.
• High-Speed Serial Interfaces: Demonstrated experience with high-speed serial communication protocols (e.g., PCIe, Ethernet, JESD204B) – including protocol analysis, implementation, and signal integrity considerations.
• Problem-Solving & Analytical Skills: Exceptional analytical and problem-solving abilities, with a proven track record of resolving complex technical challenges in a defense-related environment.
• Communication & Leadership: Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to effectively communicate technical concepts to both technical and non-technical audiences, and to lead and mentor junior engineers. Proven ability to provide constructive feedback and guidance.
• Version Control Systems: Expertise with version control systems (e.g., Git) and software configuration management.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or a closely related field, with a specialization in FPGA design, digital signal processing, or RF/microwave engineering.
• Prior experience developing FPGA-based systems for RFEW, EOIR, or Radar applications.
• Experience with Defense Applications: Prior experience developing FPGA-based systems for RFEW, EOIR, or Radar applications.
• Embedded Systems Architecture: Experience with embedded processor architectures (e.g., ARM, PowerPC) and their integration with FPGAs in real-time systems.
• DSP Implementation: Strong understanding of digital signal processing algorithms (e.g., FFTs, filters, modulation/demodulation techniques) and their efficient implementation on FPGAs.
• System-Level Modeling: Experience with system-level modeling tools (e.g. MATLAB/Simulink, SystemC) for algorithm prototyping and system validation.
• Board-Level Debugging: Experience with board-level debugging techniques using test and measurement equipment (e.g., oscilloscopes, logic analyzers, spectrum analyzers).

Skills

• HDL Proficiency: Expertise in a Hardware Description Language (HDL) such as VHDL or Verilog, including experience with code and design reviews.
• Digital Logic Design & Architecture: Deep understanding of digital logic design principles, FPGA architectures (e.g., Xilinx, Intel), and system-level design considerations relevant to signal processing and real-time systems.
• FPGA Development Tool Expertise: Strong proficiency with FPGA development tools from Xilinx (Vivado, ISE) or Intel (Quartus Prime), including synthesis, place & route, timing closure, and debugging.
• Simulation & Verification Methodologies: Experience with digital logic simulation tools (e.g. QuestSim, Xcelium) and fixed point modeling for RTL verification.
• Programming Skills: Proficiency in at least one programming language (e.g. C, C++, Python, MATLAB) for embedded systems development, testbench creation, and data analysis.
• High-Speed Serial Interfaces: Demonstrated experience with high-speed serial communication protocols (e.g., PCIe, Ethernet, JESD204B) – including protocol analysis, implementation, and signal integrity considerations.
• Problem-Solving & Analytical Skills: Exceptional analytical and problem-solving abilities, with a proven track record of resolving complex technical challenges in a defense-related environment.
• Communication & Leadership: Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to effectively communicate technical concepts to both technical and non-technical audiences, and to lead and mentor junior engineers. Proven ability to provide constructive feedback and guidance.
• Version Control Systems: Expertise with version control systems (e.g., Git) and software configuration management.

Benefits

• Full-Time Salary Range: $97008 - $164914
• Employee Benefits: Health, dental, and vision insurance; health savings accounts; a 401(k) savings plan; disability coverage; life and accident insurance; employee assistance program; legal plan; and other perks including discounts on home, auto, and pet insurance.
• Leave Programs: Paid time off, paid holidays, and other types of leave, including paid parental, military, bereavement, and any applicable federal and state sick leave.
• Recognition Program: Monetary or non-monetary recognition awards.
• Other Incentives: Based on position level and/or job specifics.

Pay Information

Full-Time Salary Range: $97008 - $164914

Schedule

This role is a hybrid position, allowing you to balance on-site collaboration with remote work.

Contact

BAE Systems is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.