Sr. Principal Digital Engineer

Job Title

Sr. Principal Digital Engineer

Role Summary

Design and verify digital subsystems and FPGA-based solutions for multi-function software-defined radios and associated test equipment. Work within the Advanced Digital Design organization at the San Diego campus, collaborating with hardware, firmware, and system teams to deliver production-ready digital designs.

Experience Level

Senior - expects substantial prior experience in digital/FPGA engineering; typically candidates will have many years of relevant engineering experience and demonstrated technical leadership.

Responsibilities

The role focuses on FPGA-based digital design, verification, and delivery for radio and signal-processing systems.

• Architect, implement, and verify FPGA designs (RTL) for communications and signal-processing systems.
• Develop and execute simulation and verification strategies; use EDA tools for synthesis and simulation.
• Create and maintain requirements, ensure traceability from requirements to implementation and tests.
• Perform board- and system-level bring-up, debug with common lab/test equipment, and resolve timing/physical issues to achieve timing closure.
• Produce design-assurance deliverables and assemble technical data packages for delivery.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams including hardware, RF, manufacturing, and test engineering.

Requirements

Mandatory skills and clearances required for consideration; preferred skills follow.

Must-have

• Ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. Government Secret security clearance.
• Hands-on experience in FPGA design and verification using VHDL.
• Proven experience with FPGA toolflows and EDA tools (examples: Vivado, Quartus, Questa Simulator).
• Board/system-level debug experience using lab/test equipment and diagnosing timing or physical constraint issues.
• Ability to develop requirements and demonstrate traceability to implementation and test artifacts.

Nice-to-have

• Experience with AMD and/or Intel FPGAs and OSVVM.
• Background in multilayer board design, high-speed interfaces, and RF communication systems.
• Experience assembling technical data packages and design‑assurance documentation.

Education Requirements

Requires a technical degree: Bachelor's in Electrical Engineering (BSEE) or Computer Engineering (BSCE) are cited; Master's and PhD levels are also mentioned for reduced years-of-experience expectations. No certification requirements were specified.

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.