FAST Lab - Senior FPGA Engineer

Job Description
Be a part of something bigger. At BAE Systems' FAST Labs, you'll develop cutting-edge electronics that directly impact national security - from enhancing situational awareness for pilots to enabling critical capabilities for soldiers in the field. We are innovators, committed to delivering solutions for air, land, sea, and space. If you're a highly skilled and motivated FPGA engineer seeking a challenging and impactful role, we encourage you to apply.
FAST Labs thrives on collaboration and innovation, maturing and delivering leading-edge technologies to both internal and external customers. We value individuals who can independently drive technical projects, mentor junior engineers, and contribute to a culture of excellence. We offer a flexible work environment that allows you to make a significant impact while maintaining a healthy work-life balance.
We are seeking a highly skilled and experienced Senior FPGA Engineer to join our FAST Labs team. You will lead or support the design, development, and verification of complex FPGA-based systems supporting critical defense applications including Radio Frequency Electronic Warfare (RFEW), Electro-Optical/Infrared (EOIR), Communications, and Radar systems. You will be responsible for architecting solutions, guiding technical decisions, and working within a team of engineers throughout the development lifecycle. This role offers a challenging and rewarding opportunity to leverage your expertise and contribute to innovative research products in a dynamic environment.
BAE Systems offers competitive compensation, an excellent benefits package (including tuition reimbursement for advanced degrees), and a flexible work schedule, including every other Friday off. This role is a hybrid position, allowing you to balance on-site collaboration with remote work.
Required Education, Experience, & Skills

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or a closely related field with 4+ years of experience
• Must be eligible to obtain a Secret Security Clearance.
• HDL Proficiency: Demonstrated expertise in a Hardware Description Language (HDL) such as VHDL or Verilog, including experience with code and design reviews.
• Digital Logic Design & Architecture: Deep understanding of digital logic design principles, FPGA architectures (e.g., Xilinx, Intel), and system-level design considerations relevant to signal processing and real-time systems.
• FPGA Development Tool Expertise: Strong proficiency with FPGA development tools from Xilinx (Vivado, ISE) or Intel (Quartus Prime), including synthesis, place & route, timing closure, and debugging.
• Simulation & Verification Methodologies: Experience with digital logic simulation tools (e.g. QuestSim, Xcelium) and fixed point modeling for RTL verification
• Programming Skills: Proficiency in at least one programming language (e.g. C, C++, Python, MATLAB) for embedded systems development, testbench creation, and data analysis.
• High-Speed Serial Interfaces: Demonstrated experience with high-speed serial communication protocols (e.g., PCIe, Ethernet, JESD204B) - including protocol analysis, implementation, and signal integrity considerations.
• Problem-Solving & Analytical Skills: Exceptional analytical and problem-solving abilities, with a proven track record of resolving complex technical challenges in a defense-related environment.
• Communication & Leadership: Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to effectively communicate technical concepts to both technical and non-technical audiences, and to lead and mentor junior engineers. Proven ability to provide constructive feedback and guidance.
• Version Control Systems: Expertise with version control systems (e.g., Git) and software configuration management.

Preferred Education, Experience, & Skills

• Master's degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or a closely related field, with a specialization in FPGA design, digital signal processing, or RF/microwave engineering.
• Experience with Defense Applications: Prior experience developing FPGA-based systems for RFEW, EOIR, or Radar applications.
• Embedded Systems Architecture: Experience with embedded processor architectures (e.g., ARM, PowerPC) and their integration with FPGAs in real-time systems.
• DSP Implementation: Strong understanding of digital signal processing algorithms (e.g., FFTs, filters, modulation/demodulation techniques) and their efficient implementation on FPGAs.
• System-Level Modeling: Experience with system-level modeling tools (e.g. MATLAB/Simulink, SystemC) for algorithm prototyping and system validation.
• Board-Level Debugging: Experience with board-level debugging techniques using test and measurement equipment (e.g., oscilloscopes, logic analyzers, spectrum analyzers).

Pay Information
Full-Time Salary Range: $97008 - $164914
Please note: This range is based on our market pay structures. However, individual salaries are determined by a variety of factors including, but not limited to: business considerations, local market conditions, and internal equity, as well as candidate qualifications, such as skills, education, and experience.
Employee Benefits: At BAE Systems, we support our employees in all aspects of their life, including their health and financial well-being. Regular employees scheduled to work 20+ hours per week are offered: health, dental, and vision insurance; health savings accounts; a 401(k) savings plan; disability coverage; and life and accident insurance. We also have an employee assistance program, a legal plan, and other perks including discounts on things like home, auto, and pet insurance. Our leave programs include paid time off, paid holidays, as well as other types of leave, including paid parental, military, bereavement, and any applicable federal and state sick leave. Employees may participate in the company recognition program to receive monetary or non-monetary recognition awards. Other incentives may be available based on position level and/or job specifics.
About BAE Systems Electronic Systems
BAE Systems, Inc. is a defense, aerospace, and security company headquartered in Falls Church, Virginia, with more than 40,000 employees worldwide. We serve, supply, and protect those who protect us. As one of the most geographically diverse international defense companies, we deliver a full range of products and services spanning air, land, maritime, space, and cyber, including advanced electronics, intelligence solutions, and dedicated customer support.
Our culture is performance-driven and values-led, built on curiosity, creativity, and collaboration. Purpose isn't a tagline here. It's what drives us. We're developing breakthrough technologies that defend national security and make a lasting impact on our communities and our planet. When you join BAE Systems, you're not just building a career. You're contributing to a mission that truly matters.
This position will be posted for at least 5 calendar days. The posting will remain active until the position is filled, or a qualified pool of candidates is identified.