Senior Principal FPGA Design Engineer

Job Title

Senior Principal FPGA Design Engineer

Role Summary

Lead architecture and implementation of FPGA/SoC-based digital systems for space and other high-reliability applications within the Space & Mission Systems engineering organization. Work across the program lifecycle to design, integrate, verify, and deliver FPGA IP and systems.

Minimum $20,000 sign-on bonus for external hires. This role requires regular on-site engagement (three or more days per week).

Experience Level

Senior-level; the posting expects an experienced engineer (guidance: 8+ years of related experience).

Responsibilities

Key responsibilities include:

• Architect and lead complex FPGA SoC designs and digital IP integration.
• Design digital systems including SOC architectures, digital filters, image processing, and communications interfaces.
• Develop FPGA designs using AMD (Xilinx) toolflows and IP.
• Support verification, integration, and validation activities for high-reliability systems.
• Provide technical leadership, develop roadmaps, and mentor engineering teams.
• Produce design documentation, specifications, and implementation plans; manage requirements flow-down.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams and maintain effective working relationships across the organization.

Requirements

Must-have skills and qualifications:

• Active Top Secret/SCI security clearance required.
• Strong experience in FPGA design: digital system partitioning, advanced function implementation, and high-speed digital electronics.
• Proficiency with HDL and verification languages: VHDL, Verilog, and SystemVerilog.
• Experience with FPGA toolchains and simulators, e.g., Xilinx Vivado/Vitis and Mentor ModelSim/QuestaSim.
• Experience with embedded processor systems and IP integration for FPGA SoCs.
• Ability to translate system requirements into subsystem/board-level designs and perform requirements flow-down.
• Strong 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).
• Background in signal processing/DSP algorithms and cybersecurity topics.
• Experience in space, aerospace, or other high-reliability industries.

Education Requirements

BS degree or higher in Engineering or a related technical field required. Master’s degree or Ph.D. may substitute for two years of experience; related technical experience may be considered in lieu of formal education. Degree should be from an accredited institution. The posting specifies 8+ years of related experience as guidance.

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.