FPGA Design Engineer (Level 3 or 4)

Job Title

FPGA Design Engineer (Level 3 or 4)

Role Summary

Design and verify digital logic and FPGA subsystems for space applications such as satellite command & control and sensor data processing. Work on avionics/space hardware using Xilinx and Microsemi toolflows and collaborate with multi-functional engineering teams to deliver validated system-level implementations.

Experience Level

Mid-level to Senior. Level 3 corresponds to mid-level engineering experience; Level 4 corresponds to senior-level engineering responsibility. See Education Requirements for detailed years-of-experience mappings by degree.

Responsibilities

Key responsibilities include:

• Architect, design, and implement FPGA-based digital logic for space systems.
• Develop, simulate, and verify RTL (VHDL/other HDL) and FPGA implementations using Xilinx and Microsemi toolchains.
• Create and execute development and validation test plans; support system-level validation.
• Document design analyses, test results, and generate technical reports.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to translate requirements into implementable designs.
• Present technical work at program reviews and technical meetings.

Requirements

Must-have skills, security, and work eligibility:

• Proven experience with FPGA design and digital subsystem development; familiarity with ASIC or digital board development is valued.
• Experience with RTL design and verification; knowledge of VHDL or other hardware description languages is preferred.
• Ability to define and execute test plans and verification methods.
• Strong written and oral communication skills; ability to present technical information clearly.
• U.S. citizenship is required.
• Ability to obtain and maintain DoD security clearance: Level 3 candidates must be able to obtain Top Secret; Level 4 candidates must be able to obtain Secret or Top Secret.
• Willingness and ability to travel up to ~10%.

Preferred / nice-to-have:

• Active DoD Top Secret clearance.
• Experience translating requirements into block diagrams and FPGA implementations.
• Experience with MATLAB/Simulink modeling and system-level trade studies.
• Familiarity with systems engineering principles and conducting trade studies.
• Mentoring or coaching experience for early-career engineers (especially for Level 4).

Education Requirements

Level 3: Bachelor's in a STEM discipline + 5 years related experience, or Master's + 3 years, or PhD + 0 years. Level 4: Bachelor's in a STEM discipline + 8 years related experience, or Master's + 6 years, or PhD + 3 years. (STEM discipline unspecified; U.S. citizenship required for roles requiring clearance.)

About the Company

Company: Northrop Grumman

Headquarters: Falls Church, Virginia, United States

Northrop Grumman is a leading global aerospace and defense technology company that provides innovative solutions in mission systems, electronics, and software. With a legacy of significant advancements in technology, we empower employees to tackle complex challenges and create revolutionary systems that enhance global security. Our diverse teams focus on engineering innovation and product development, delivering solutions that support military and civilian customers worldwide.