FPGA Digital Engineer - 2

Job Title

FPGA Digital Engineer - 2

Role Summary

Join the Electro-Optics group within Northrop Grumman Space Systems to support FPGA design, verification, and integration for launch-vehicle-related systems. This role works with hardware, algorithms, and software teams to develop FPGA modules and testbenches for image processing and IO functions.

This is an early-career position focused on learning foundational FPGA design practices while contributing to project deliverables under senior guidance.

Experience Level

Entry-level. Typical guidance: ~2 years relevant experience or a Master's degree.

Responsibilities

Work under supervision to design, verify, and integrate FPGA-based digital systems for electro-optical applications.

• Assist senior FPGA engineers and multidisciplinary teams to resolve design and integration issues.
• Develop and execute test benches to verify functional and timing behavior.
• Generate, verify, and integrate HDL modules for IO and image-processing functions; perform module-level simulation and device integration.
• Prepare and maintain design documentation, simulation results, and verification reports.
• Support configuration management of FPGA bitstream builds.
• Ensure compliance with internal design standards throughout development.
• Continue learning evolving FPGA tools, architectures, and verification methodologies.

Requirements

Must-have skills and clearances; nice-to-have items listed separately.

• Must have: Ability to obtain a U.S. Department of Defense Secret security clearance.
• Internship, co-op, or project experience with FPGAs, SoCs, or digital hardware; VHDL preferred or Verilog experience.
• Exposure to AMD Xilinx FPGAs/SoCs and development tools such as Vivado.
• Familiarity with design constraints (timing, power, I/O) and simulation tools (Questa/ModelSim).
• Experience or exposure to digital interfaces/buses (Ethernet, PCIe, AXI4, UART, SDLC) via coursework or projects.
• Experience developing or executing verification plans using simulation, analysis, or hardware bench testing.

Nice-to-have:

• Experience or coursework with embedded C/C++.
• Familiarity with AMD Xilinx Versal devices, Vitis Unified IDE, and memory interfaces (DDR3/DDR4/DDR5).
• Understanding of UVM/OSVVM verification methodologies and interest in high-speed PCB design/signal integrity.
• Direct experience with missile, seeker, or high-reliability electro-optical systems (including internships or academic projects).

Education Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or a related discipline plus ~2 years relevant experience; or a Master's degree in EE/CE or related field. Academic project or internship experience with FPGAs/SoCs is acceptable as qualifying experience.

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.