Principal FPGA Design Engineer

Job Title

Principal FPGA Design Engineer

Role Summary

Work on spacecraft and high-reliability electronic systems within the Space and Mission Systems team. Lead architecture and implementation of complex FPGA SoC designs, integrate digital IP, and guide technical roadmaps across R&D and production programs.

Position includes a $15,000 sign-on bonus for external hires and requires on-site presence three or more days per week in Westminster, CO.

Experience Level

Senior — typically requires 6+ years of relevant FPGA/digital-systems engineering experience or equivalent; advanced degrees may substitute for experience per employer policy.

Responsibilities

Key responsibilities include:

• Architect and lead complex FPGA SoC designs and digital IP integration for space and high-reliability systems.
• Develop FPGA implementations using AMD/Xilinx toolchains and verify designs.
• Design and implement digital filters, image processing algorithms, and communication interfaces.
• Provide technical leadership, create product roadmaps, and define specifications, cost, schedule, and resource requirements.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams and maintain design documentation and artifacts.
• Maintain a regular and predictable work schedule and perform other duties as assigned.

Requirements

Must-have:

• 6+ years of related FPGA/digital-systems engineering experience.
• Proficiency in VHDL, Verilog, and SystemVerilog.
• Experience with FPGA toolchains (Xilinx Vivado/Vitis) and simulators (Mentor ModelSim/QuestaSim).
• Strong background in high-speed digital electronics and embedded processor systems.
• Experience with digital system partitioning, IP integration, and implementation on FPGAs.
• Good written and verbal communication and presentation skills.

Nice-to-have:

• Experience with OVM/UVM verification methodologies.
• Familiarity with high-speed interfaces (PCIe, Ethernet) and signal-integrity tools (HyperLynx).
• Experience with signal processing/DSP techniques, cybersecurity for embedded systems, and space/aerospace/high-reliability applications.
• Demonstrated technical leadership on FPGA design projects.

Education Requirements

BS degree or higher in Engineering or a related technical field is required. Master’s or PhD may substitute for two years of experience each. Related technical experience may be considered in lieu of a degree. Degree must be from an institution accredited by an agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.

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.