Sr. Advanced FPGA Firmware Developer
Confirmed on the employer's own hiring board on Oct 18, 2026. First seen by Alion on Sep 28, 2026.
Basic Qualifications
Bachelor's degree in Electrical or Computer Engineering, or a related Science, Engineering or Mathematics field, plus a minimum of 8 years of relevant experience; or Master's degree plus a minimum of 6 years 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 Sr. Advanced 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.
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:
- Architect, design, and document FPGA firmware hierarchies, components, interfaces, and data flows
- Develop, simulate, and test firmware components in preparation for hardware 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, verify changes, and maintain configuration management documentation
- Identifies opportunities to apply AI for continuous improvement and innovation
What sets you apart:
- Deep knowledge of FPGA fabric architecture and advanced cross-clock domain design techniques
- Hands-on experience with Xilinx (AMD) and Altera (Intel) toolchains for synthesis, implementation, and debug
- Proven ability to read and interpret schematics and guide hardware rework to support firmware design
- Track record of independently diagnosing and resolving complex integration issues
- Experience maintaining rigorous configuration management practices in a structured engineering environment
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 in the future, but will require a minimum of 3 days per week on-site. Relocation package/assistance may be available. To learn more about Canonsburg and what this 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 $150,000.00 - USD $160,000.00 /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