FAST Lab - Entry Level FPGA Engineer (Fall 2026 hire)

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 passionate about technology and want to contribute to a mission that matters, 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 with big ideas, a drive to accelerate technology development, and a commitment to bringing our warfighters home safely. 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 motivated and enthusiastic Entry-Level FPGA Engineer to join our FAST Labs team. You'll work within a collaborative, cross-functional hardware team, contributing to the design, development, and verification of FPGA-based systems implementing high-speed interfaces, signal processing algorithms, and embedded processor sub-systems. Under the guidance of experienced engineers, you will participate in all phases of the FPGA development lifecycle - from architecture definition and RTL coding to simulation, synthesis, implementation, and testing. This is an excellent opportunity to learn, grow, 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 0 - 2 yrs experience.
• Must be eligible to obtain a Secret Security Clearance.
• HDL Fundamentals: Working knowledge of a Hardware Description Language (HDL) such as VHDL or Verilog.
• Digital Logic Design: Solid understanding of digital logic design principles, including state machines, combinational and sequential logic.
• FPGA Architecture: Familiarity with the fundamental architecture of FPGAs
• Simulation & Verification Tools: Familiarity with digital logic simulation tools
• Programming Skills: Familiarity in at least one programming language (e.g., C, C++, Python, MATLAB) for testbench development, embedded systems integration, or data analysis.
• Problem-Solving & Analytical Skills: Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Communication & Teamwork: Effective written and verbal communication skills and the ability to work collaboratively in a team environment.

Preferred Education, Experience, & Skills

• Master's degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or a closely related field, with a specialization in FPGA design or digital signal processing.
• FPGA Development Tools: Experience with FPGA development tools from Xilinx (Vivado, ISE) or Intel (Quartus Prime).
• High-Speed Interface Protocols: Knowledge of high-speed serial communication protocols (e.g., PCIe, Ethernet).
• Embedded Systems Integration: Experience with embedded processors (e.g., ARM) and their integration with FPGAs.
• Scripting & Automation: Proficiency in scripting languages (e.g., Python, Tcl) for automation and data analysis.
• Digital Signal Processing (DSP): Understanding of digital signal processing concepts (e.g., FFTs, filters).
• Version Control Systems: Basic understanding of version control systems (e.g., Git).
• Test & Measurement Equipment: Experience with test and measurement equipment such as oscilloscopes, logic analyzers, and signal generators.

Pay Information
Full-Time Salary Range: $64926 - $110374

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.