Sr FPGA Firmware Developer

Canonsburg, PA$115k–$120kPosted Jul 29, 2026

Basic Qualifications

Bachelor's degree in Electrical or Computer Engineering, or a related Science, Engineering or Mathematics field, plus a minimum of 2 years of relevant experience; or Master's degree, plus 6 months of relevant experience.

CLEARANCE REQUIREMENTS:Department of Defense Secret security clearance is obtainable within a reasonable amount of time after hire. Applicants selected will be subject to a U.S. Government security investigation and must meet eligibility requirements for access to classified information. Due to the nature of work performed within our facilities, U.S. citizenship is required.

Responsibilities for this Position

Imagine a world-class engineering environment. Now add a team of exceptional talent along with technologies that are so advanced they're often classified. That's what you'll find at General Dynamics Mission Systems. Here you'll work with amazing engineers as they invent the technologies, products and services that help our service members, intelligence analysts and first responders keep our nation safe. If you want the chance to lead, it's time to bring your talent to General Dynamics Mission Systems (GDMS).

At GDMS, we provide premium systems, services, and products for the Department of Defense, government agencies and commercial clients. We are a technology leader in numerous areas including technology insertion; acoustic sensors; signal processing; combat systems; torpedoes; cyber security; knowledge management; and electronic warfare.

We are seeking an Senior FPGA Firmware Developer (Adv Software Eng) to develop, integrate, test, and support custom FPGA firmware within the Torpedo Systems Group (TSG). The TSG designs, develops, demonstrates, produces, assembles, tests and delivers torpedo SONAR arrays and electronic assemblies. The TSG team works with the Navy, internal production staff and the representatives from other companies to advance torpedo performance and lower production costs.

ROLE AND POSITION OBJECTIVES:

Be part of a team comprised of design, system engineering, and electrical engineering to develop embedded systems. Duties include:

Architect, design, and document FPGA firmware hierarchies, components, interfaces, and data flows
Develop, simulate, and test firmware components in preparation for integration
Define FPGA timing, pinout, and placement constraints; review synthesis and timing reports and address issues
Integrate and test firmware on target hardware using FPGA tools and laboratory equipment
Document failures, identify root causes, implement fixes, and maintain configuration management documentation

We encourage you to apply if you have any of these skills or experiences:

Experience implementing FPGA firmware including custom VHDL components containing state machines, synchronous/asynchronous logic, processes, and external interfaces
Understanding of the underlying FPGA fabric and experience working across cross-clock boundaries
Familiarity with Xilinx (AMD) and/or Altera (Intel) compiler, programming, and debug tools
Experience reviewing schematics, parts lists, and rework documentation
Methodical, independent problem-solving and research skills

What you'll experience:

Architecting and developing complex FPGA firmware solutions within a collaborative, cross-functional engineering team
Hands-on integration and debug of firmware on target hardware using industry-leading FPGA tools and lab equipment
End-to-end ownership of firmware components — from detailed design through root cause analysis and configuration management
Collaboration with design, systems, and electrical engineering teams to identify schematic updates and hardware reworks
Identifies opportunities to apply AI for continuous improvement and innovation

What sets you apart:

Familiarity with floor planning and timing optimizations
Working knowledge of standard network protocols (e.g., IPv4, UDP, TCP/IP)
Experience implementing custom digital signal processing filters

Our Commitment to You:

An exciting career path with opportunities for continuous learning and development
Research oriented work, alongside award winning teams developing practical solutions for our nation's security
Flexible schedules with every other Friday off work, if desired (9/80 schedule)
Competitive benefits, including 401k matching, flex time off, paid parental leave, healthcare benefits, health & wellness programs, employee resource and social groups, and more
See more at gdmissionsystems.com/careers/why-work-for-us/benefits

Workplace Options:

This position is ON-SITE in Canonsburg, PA. A hybrid work schedule may be available but will require a minimum of 3 days per week on-site. To learn more about Canonsburg and what this idyllic location has to offer, please visit: https://gdmissionsystems.com/about-us/major-locations/charleroi-canonsburg

Salary Note

This estimate represents the typical salary range for this position based on experience and other factors (geographic location, etc.). Actual pay may vary. This job posting will remain open until the position is filled.

Combined Salary Range

USD $115,000.00 - USD $120,000.00 /Yr.

Company Overview

General Dynamics Mission Systems (GDMS) engineers a diverse portfolio of high technology solutions, products and services that enable customers to successfully execute missions across all domains of operation. With a global team of 12,000+ top professionals, we partner with the best in industry to expand the bounds of innovation in the defense and scientific arenas. Given the nature of our work and who we are, we value trust, honesty, alignment and transparency. We offer highly competitive benefits and pride ourselves in being a great place to work with a shared sense of purpose. You will also enjoy a flexible work environment where contributions are recognized and rewarded. If who we are and what we do resonates with you, we invite you to join our high-performance team!

Equal Opportunity Employer / Individuals with Disabilities / Protected Veterans