FAST Lab - Entry-Level FPGA Engineer (Fall 2026 hire)

Job Title

FAST Lab - Entry-Level FPGA Engineer (Fall 2026 hire)

Role Summary

Join BAE Systems FAST Labs as an entry-level FPGA engineer working on FPGA-based electronics for defense applications. You will work on a cross-functional hardware team to design, implement, verify, and test FPGA systems that support high-speed interfaces, signal processing, and embedded processor subsystems.

The role supports development from architecture and RTL coding through simulation, synthesis, implementation, and lab testing under guidance from senior engineers.

Experience Level

Entry-level - 0–2 years of related experience.

Responsibilities

Key responsibilities include:

• Design and implement FPGA logic (RTL) and finite-state machines for digital systems.
• Develop and execute simulations and verification testbenches for digital designs.
• Perform synthesis, place-and-route, and timing closure for target FPGAs.
• Integrate FPGA designs with embedded processors and high-speed interfaces.
• Implement signal processing algorithms (e.g., DSP primitives) on FPGA platforms.
• Develop test procedures, perform lab bring-up, debug with oscilloscopes/logic analyzers, and validate system performance.
• Document designs, maintain version control, and participate in design reviews.
• Collaborate with cross-functional hardware and software teams; travel up to ~25% as required.

Requirements

Must-have skills and conditions:

• Eligibility to obtain a U.S. Secret security clearance and U.S. person status required.
• Working knowledge of an HDL such as VHDL or Verilog.
• Solid understanding of digital logic design (combinational/sequential logic, state machines).
• Familiarity with FPGA architecture and digital logic simulation/verification tools.
• Proficiency in at least one programming language (C, C++, Python, or MATLAB) for testbenches or embedded integration.
• Strong analytical problem-solving skills and effective written/verbal communication.

Nice-to-have:

• Experience with Xilinx (Vivado, ISE) or Intel (Quartus Prime) toolflows.
• Knowledge of high-speed serial protocols (PCIe, Ethernet) and embedded processor integration (ARM).
• Scripting and automation experience (Python, Tcl) and familiarity with version control (Git).
• Understanding of DSP concepts (FFTs, filters) and experience with test & measurement equipment.

Education Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or a closely related field (0–2 years experience). A master's degree in a related field with specialization in FPGA design or digital signal processing is listed as preferred.

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.