FAST Lab – Entry-Level FPGA Engineer

Job Title

FAST Lab – Entry-Level FPGA Engineer

Role Summary

Join FAST Labs as an entry-level FPGA engineer working on FPGA-based systems for high-speed interfaces, signal processing, and embedded sub-systems. You will work on architecture, RTL coding, simulation, synthesis, implementation, and hardware test within a cross-functional hardware team.

This is a hybrid role based in Merrimack, NH, supporting systems used in defense and national-security applications.

Experience Level

Entry-level — 0–2 years of relevant experience.

Responsibilities

Primary responsibilities include:

• Implement RTL using VHDL or Verilog and participate in design reviews.
• Develop and run digital simulations and verification testbenches.
• Synthesize and implement designs using FPGA tool flows and perform timing closure.
• Integrate FPGA designs with embedded processors and firmware as needed.
• Bring up and debug hardware in the lab using test equipment (oscilloscopes, logic analyzers).
• Work with cross-functional teams to define architecture and requirements.
• Document designs, test procedures, and results; support peer reviews.

Requirements

Must-have qualifications:

• Eligible to obtain a U.S. Secret security clearance.
• Working knowledge of a hardware description language (VHDL or Verilog).
• Solid understanding of digital logic design: state machines, combinational and sequential logic.
• Familiarity with FPGA architecture and common implementation flow.
• Familiarity with digital simulation and verification tools.
• Proficiency in at least one programming language (C, C++, Python, or MATLAB) for testbench development or data analysis.
• Strong analytical/problem-solving skills and effective written and verbal communication.

Nice-to-have:

• Experience with Xilinx (Vivado/ISE) or Intel (Quartus) toolchains.
• Knowledge of high-speed serial protocols (PCIe, Ethernet) and DSP concepts (FFTs, filters).
• Experience integrating embedded processors (e.g., ARM) with FPGAs and scripting for automation (Python, Tcl).
• Familiarity with version control (Git) and test & measurement equipment.

Education Requirements

Required: Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or a closely related field. Preferred: Master's degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or a closely related field with specialization in FPGA design or digital signal processing.

About the Company

Company: BAE Systems

Headquarters: London, United Kingdom

Global defense, aerospace and security company delivering products and services for air, land and naval forces, advanced electronics, cyber and intelligence solutions, and space and mission systems for government and commercial customers.