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 travel and professional development.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on innovative technology while growing your career.
- 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 Luton 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 Luton
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current employees at Leonardo or in the FPGA field on LinkedIn. A friendly chat can give you insider info and maybe even a referral!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for those interviews! Brush up on your FPGA design knowledge and be ready to discuss your past projects. Show us how your experience aligns with what Leonardo is looking for.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t forget to showcase your soft skills! Communication and teamwork are key in this role, so be sure to highlight your ability to lead and collaborate effectively.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, you’ll find all the latest opportunities there!
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 and skills that match the job description, like your expertise in FPGA design tools and embedded solutions.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about the role and how your background makes you a perfect fit for our team at Leonardo.
Showcase Your Projects:If you've worked on any relevant projects, be sure to mention them! Whether it's FPGA designs or firmware development, showcasing your hands-on experience can really set you apart.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother application process. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets into the right hands!
How to prepare for a job interview at Leonardo Worldwide Corporation
✨Know Your FPGA Tools
Familiarise yourself with the design tools mentioned in the job description, like Xilinx and Verilog. Be ready to discuss your experience with these tools and how you've used them in past projects.
✨Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills
Prepare examples of complex problems you've solved in FPGA design or firmware development. Highlight your structured approach to design and any relevant methodologies, such as RTCA DO-254.
✨Communicate Clearly
Since good verbal and written communication skills are essential, practice explaining technical concepts in simple terms. This will help you convey your ideas effectively during the interview.
✨Understand the Company Culture
Research Leonardo's values and benefits, like their commitment to diversity and employee wellbeing. Be prepared to discuss how your personal values align with theirs and why you want to be part of their team.
