At a Glance
- Tasks: Design and develop complex firmware for cutting-edge self-protection systems.
- Company: Join Leonardo, a global leader in Aerospace, Defence, and Security.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, generous leave, and a comprehensive benefits package.
- Other info: Dynamic work environment with opportunities for career growth and learning.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in technology while working with industry experts.
- Qualifications: Degree in relevant fields or equivalent experience; skills in FPGA design tools required.
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 with broad bands. The salary range shown reflects the approved grade band for this role, or a narrower hiring range published within that band, and is benchmarked against the external market. Exceptions above the standard range are managed through governance controls to protect internal equity. Where this vacancy is being recruited across more than one grade, the successful candidate will be appointed to a specific assessed grade, and the applicable salary range will be that associated with the grade of appointment. Leonardo offers additional allowances for some roles.
Your impact
Would you like to deliver the complex Firmware that forms part of our self-protection systems installed on fast jet, UAV, land and naval platforms? Do you have experience leading Firmware teams or delivering highly complex embedded solutions? Leonardo is looking for Lead and Principal FPGA/Firmware Engineers to join our growing Luton or Bristol based teams. As an experienced FPGA/Firmware engineer you will work with experts in their field, using world-class facilities to deliver Firmware for complex digital systems that meet challenging future customer requirements. Your role may even take you across the UK or abroad for technical reviews. You will use or develop team leading experience to support the delivery of work from several engineers. Your expertise will also be key to enhance processes and ways of working across UK wide FPGA/Firmware delivery teams.
What you will do:
- Firmware requirements capture and management;
- FPGA design and analysis;
- Production of documentation for other engineers and evidence for design reviews;
- Development of FPGA test and FPGA integration plans;
- Perform system integration work with PCB designers;
- Support all firmware designs through the company firmware process – training will be given;
- Modification of existing firmware designs and test benches.
What you’ll bring:
- An HNC/HND or Undergraduate Degree (Electronic Engineering, Computer Science, AI, Games Programming, Physics, or Applied Physics) or you may just have lots of skills and experience gained through your hard work.
- Design tools such as Xilinx, TCL, Verilog, System Verilog and UVM.
- FPGA architectures such as Xilinx 7, Xilinx UltraScale; Intel (Altera) or Microsemi (Actel).
- Fast interfaces such as PCIe, Ethernet, and JESD is also required.
- Auto-generated code using model driven engineering using Matlab and Simulink tools.
- Derivation of detailed FPGA/Firmware requirements and architecture from system requirements.
- A structured approach to FPGA/firmware design (RTCA DO-254 or similar).
- Cryptography and anti-tamper techniques.
- Artificial Intelligence including machine learning and genetic algorithms.
- Electronics test methods and equipment.
- 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). An additional range of Personnel Security Controls referred to as National Security Vetting (NSV) may apply, this could include meeting the eligibility requirements for The Security Check (SC) or Developed Vetting (DV).
Why join us
At Leonardo, our people are at the heart of everything we do. We offer a comprehensive, company-funded benefits package that supports your wellbeing, career development, and work–life balance. Whether you're looking to grow professionally, care for your health, or plan for the future, we’re here to help you thrive.
- Time to Recharge: Enjoy generous leave with the opportunity to accrue up to 12 additional flexi-days each year.
- Secure your Future: Benefit from our award-winning pension scheme with up to 15% employer contribution.
- Your Wellbeing Matters: Free access to mental health support, financial advice, and employee-led networks championing inclusion and diversity.
- Rewarding Performance: All employees at management level and below are eligible for our bonus scheme.
- Never Stop Learning: Free access to 4,000+ online courses via Coursera and LinkedIn Learning.
- Refer a friend: Receive a financial reward through our referral programme.
- Tailored Perks: Spend up to £500 annually on flexible benefits including private healthcare, dental, family cover, tech & lifestyle discounts, gym memberships and more.
- Flexible working: Flexible hours with hybrid working options. For part time opportunities, please talk to us about what might be possible for this role.
For a full list of our company benefits please visit our website. Leonardo is a global leader in Aerospace, Defence, and Security. Headquartered in Italy, we employ over 53,000 people worldwide including 8,500 across 9 sites in the UK. Our employees are not just part of a team—they are key contributors to shaping innovation, advancing technology, and enhancing global safety. At Leonardo we are committed to building an inclusive, accessible, and welcoming workplace. We believe that a diverse workforce sparks creativity, drives innovation, and leads to better outcomes for our people and our customers. If you have any accessibility requirements to support you during the recruitment process, just let us know. Be part of something bigger - apply now!
FPGA Design Engineers in Bristol employer: Leonardo Worldwide Corporation
At Leonardo, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a supportive work culture that prioritises employee wellbeing and professional growth. With generous leave policies, an award-winning pension scheme, and access to extensive learning resources, our Luton and Bristol teams are empowered to thrive in their careers while contributing to cutting-edge aerospace and defence projects. Join us to be part of a diverse and inclusive environment where your skills will make a meaningful impact.
Contact Details:
Leonardo Worldwide Corporation Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land FPGA Design Engineers in Bristol
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current employees at Leonardo on LinkedIn or through mutual connections. A friendly chat can give you insider info and maybe even a referral!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by brushing up on your FPGA design knowledge and relevant tools. Be ready to discuss your past projects and how they relate to the role. Confidence is key!
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your passion for innovation! During interviews, share your ideas on future trends in FPGA technology and how you can contribute to Leonardo's mission. Let your enthusiasm shine!
✨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 serious about joining the team!
We think you need these skills to ace FPGA Design Engineers in Bristol
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the FPGA Design Engineer role. Highlight relevant experience, especially with FPGA design tools and firmware development. 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 this role and how your background makes you a great fit. We love hearing personal stories that connect to our mission.
Showcase Your Technical Skills:Don’t forget to mention specific technical skills like Verilog, System Verilog, or any experience with Xilinx tools. We’re keen on seeing how you can contribute to our projects right from the start!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets into the right hands. Plus, you’ll find all the details about the role and our company culture there!
How to prepare for a job interview at Leonardo Worldwide Corporation
✨Know Your FPGA Tools
Make sure you’re well-versed in the design tools mentioned in the job description, like Xilinx and Verilog. Brush up on your knowledge of FPGA architectures and be ready to discuss how you've used these tools in past projects.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare specific examples from your previous work that highlight your experience with firmware requirements capture, FPGA design, and system integration. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses.
✨Understand the Company’s Impact
Research Leonardo and understand their role in aerospace, defence, and security. Be prepared to discuss how your skills can contribute to their mission, especially in delivering complex firmware for self-protection systems.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the team dynamics, project challenges, and future technologies they are exploring. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if it’s the right fit for you.
