At a Glance
- Tasks: Design and develop complex firmware for cutting-edge self-protection systems on various platforms.
- Company: Join Leonardo UK, a leader in innovative technology with a collaborative environment.
- Benefits: Enjoy generous leave, an award-winning pension, mental health support, and flexible working options.
- Other info: Access to 4,000+ online courses and a referral programme with financial rewards.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in defence technology while advancing your skills in a dynamic team.
- Qualifications: HNC/HND or degree in relevant fields; experience with FPGA design tools and architectures.
The predicted salary is between 38000 - 53000 £ per year.
Salary Ranges: Engineer: £38k‑£53k, Senior: £45k‑£61k, Principal: £54k‑£71k, Lead: £60k‑£84k. Leonardo UK operates a grade‑based salary framework. The range shown reflects the approved grade band for this role, or a narrower hiring range published within that band.
Your Impact
You will deliver complex firmware that forms part of our self‑protection systems installed on fast jets, UAVs, land and naval platforms. You will lead firmware teams and deliver highly complex embedded solutions.
What you will do
- Capture and manage firmware requirements.
- Design and analyse FPGA architecture.
- Produce documentation for other engineers and evidence for design reviews.
- Develop FPGA test plans and integration plans.
- Perform system integration work with PCB designers.
- Support all firmware designs through the company firmware process (training will be provided).
- Modify existing firmware designs and test benches.
What you’ll bring
- An HNC/HND or undergraduate degree (Electronic Engineering, Computer Science, AI, Games Programming, Physics, Applied Physics) or equivalent skills from experience.
- Experience with design tools such as Xilinx, TCL, Verilog, SystemVerilog, UVM, and FPGA architectures Xilinx 7, UltraScale, Intel (Altera), or Microsemi (Actel).
- Knowledge of fast interfaces such as PCIe, Ethernet and JESD.
- Experience with model‑driven engineering using MATLAB and Simulink.
- Ability to derive detailed FPGA/firmware requirements and architecture from system requirements.
- Structured FPGA/firmware design approach (e.g., RTCA DO‑254).
- Cryptography and anti‑tamper techniques.
- Artificial Intelligence skills, including machine learning and genetic algorithms.
- Electronics test methods and equipment knowledge.
- Good verbal and written communication skills.
Security Clearance
This role is subject to pre‑employment screening in line with the UK Government’s Baseline Personnel Security Standard (BPSS). Additional controls such as National Security Vetting (NSV) may apply, including Security Check (SC) or Developed Vetting (DV).
Benefits
- Generous leave with the option to accrue up to 12 additional flexi‑days per year.
- Award‑winning pension scheme with up to 15% employer contribution.
- Free access to mental health support, financial advice and employee‑led inclusion networks.
- Eligibility for the bonus scheme for employees at management level and below.
- Free access to over 4,000 online courses via Coursera and LinkedIn Learning.
- Referral programme that offers a financial reward.
- Flexible benefits allowance of up to £500 annually for private healthcare, dental, family cover, tech & lifestyle discounts, gym memberships and more.
- Flexible working hours with hybrid working options (full‑time and part‑time).
Location
Primary location: Luton – Cap. Green 300. Additional location: Bristol – Coldharbour Lane.
FPGA Design Engineers in Luton employer: Leonardo UK Ltd
At Leonardo UK, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering FPGA Design Engineers the opportunity to work on cutting-edge self-protection systems for fast jets and other platforms. Our supportive work culture fosters innovation and collaboration, while our generous benefits package, including flexible working hours, extensive training resources, and a robust pension scheme, ensures that employees can thrive both personally and professionally in our Luton location.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land FPGA Design Engineers in Luton
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current employees at Leonardo UK on LinkedIn or through industry events. A friendly chat can give you insider info and might just land you a referral.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Create a portfolio showcasing your FPGA projects or any relevant work. This visual evidence can really make you stand out during interviews.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for technical interviews by brushing up on your knowledge of design tools like Xilinx and Verilog. Practice common FPGA-related questions to boost your confidence.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in joining the team.
We think you need these skills to ace FPGA Design Engineers in Luton
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the FPGA Design Engineer role. Highlight relevant experience with design tools like Xilinx and your knowledge of FPGA architectures. We want to see how your skills match what we're looking for!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about firmware design and how your background fits with our projects. Keep it engaging and personal – we love to see your personality come through.
Showcase Your Projects:If you've worked on any cool projects related to FPGA or embedded systems, make sure to mention them! We want to know about your hands-on experience and how you've tackled challenges in your previous roles.
Apply Through Our Website:Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it gives you a chance to explore more about what we do at StudySmarter!
How to prepare for a job interview at Leonardo UK Ltd
✨Know Your FPGA Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of FPGA architectures and design tools like Xilinx and Verilog. Be ready to discuss specific projects where you've used these tools, as well as any challenges you faced and how you overcame them.
✨Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills
Prepare to talk about how you've tackled complex firmware requirements in the past. Use examples that highlight your structured approach to design and integration, especially if they relate to fast interfaces like PCIe or Ethernet.
✨Communicate Clearly
Since good verbal and written communication skills are essential, practice explaining technical concepts in a way that's easy to understand. You might be asked to produce documentation or present your ideas, so clarity is key!
✨Be Ready for Security Questions
Given the security clearance requirements, be prepared to discuss your understanding of cryptography and anti-tamper techniques. It’s also wise to have a grasp of the pre-employment screening process and what it entails.
