Principal Engineer Digital FPGA / Sr. Principal Engineer Digital FPGA (Level 3/4)

Job Title

Principal Engineer Digital FPGA / Sr. Principal Engineer Digital FPGA (Level 3/4)

Role Summary

Responsible design engineer (RDE) delivering digital FPGA and PCB/CCA architecture, detailed design, integration, and test for flight electronics test systems and satellite ground operational hardware within the Ground Systems Development Department, Space Sector.

Works cross-functionally with systems, hardware, software, production, procurement, and program management to meet technical and schedule requirements.

Experience Level

Senior (Level 3 or Level 4). Level 3 qualification combinations: Bachelor's in a STEM discipline plus 5 years engineering experience; Master's plus 3 years; PhD plus 1 year. Level 4 combinations: Bachelor's plus 8 years; Master's plus 6 years; PhD plus 4 years. Requires an active Top-Secret clearance at time of application.

Responsibilities

Primary engineering responsibilities include design, verification, integration, and test of digital and electronic systems supporting flight and ground equipment.

• FPGA architecture, RTL design, functional simulation, and creation of test vectors.
• PCB/CCA design, development, and integration into electronic units.
• Electronic unit/drawer design, build, verification, and test.
• Design, development, test, and post-delivery support for electronic test systems (test sets).
• Detailed digital component-level analysis and worst-case performance analysis for critical signals.
• Prepare and present design reviews and customer briefings.
• Coordinate with Ground/Flight Hardware Engineering, Systems Engineering, Software, Production, Procurement, and Program Management.

Requirements

Must-have technical qualifications, security, and workplace expectations.

• Active Top-Secret clearance required at time of application; SCI access is preferred.
• Proven FPGA design and verification experience.
• Design and test experience in electronic or digital technologies; demonstrated PCB/CCA experience.
• Experience with electronic test systems and hardware integration for flight or ground systems.
• Strong problem-solving, documentation, and verbal/written communication skills.
• U.S. citizenship required for positions requiring a government clearance.
• Willingness to travel up to 10%; standard schedule is 9/80; relocation assistance may be available.
• Nice-to-have: Analog/RF design experience.

Education Requirements

Bachelor's degree in a STEM discipline (Level 3: +5 years experience; Level 4: +8 years). Alternatives accepted per level: Master's in a STEM discipline (Level 3: +3 years; Level 4: +6 years) or PhD in a STEM discipline (Level 3: +1 year; Level 4: +4 years). Preferred: Master's degree in Electrical or Computer Engineering from an accredited institution.

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.