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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Design and deliver high-performance hardware solutions for national security.
- Company: Join a trusted supplier in the national security domain with a collaborative culture.
- Benefits: Stability, growth opportunities, and exposure to cutting-edge technology.
- Other info: Diverse and inclusive community with support throughout the recruitment process.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on projects that protect what matters most.
- Qualifications: Experience in FPGA design, DSP implementation, and knowledge of Embedded C/C++ or Python.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 70000 £ per year.
That's why this organisation brings together engineers, scientists, analysts, and creatives from a wide range of backgrounds - and gives them the trust, tools, and freedom to make a real impact.
What connects everyone is a shared mission: solving meaningful problems and building advanced technical capability that protects what matters most.
As the challenges continue to evolve, so does the technology, with teams working on solutions that will shape tomorrow, not just today.
The Opportunity
You'll join a growing and highly trusted supplier within the national security domain, delivering mission-critical solutions that support safety, security, and long-term resilience. The business has secured long-term programmes of work across a broad technical spectrum, providing genuine stability alongside opportunity for development and growth. It's an environment where engineers can build deep expertise while contributing to work with real national impact.
Projects span leading-edge areas including:
- Digital signal processing and advanced hardware design
- AI / data-driven systems
- Secure platforms, cloud, and modern DevOps practices
- Cyber-focused and software-defined capabilities
The Role
As an FPGA Engineer, you'll play a key role in the design and delivery of high-performance hardware solutions. You'll work closely with multidisciplinary teams to develop, integrate, and validate complex systems from concept through to deployment.
FPGA Design & Development
- Designing, simulating, synthesising, and implementing digital logic using VHDL / Verilog
DSP Algorithm Implementation
- Developing and optimising real-time DSP algorithms such as FIR/IIR filters, FFTs, mixers, and I/Q demodulation
Hardware Interfacing
- Designing and managing high-speed digital interfaces including ADCs, DACs, and PCIe
System Integration
- Collaborating with embedded software, PCB, and systems engineering teams to integrate firmware into deployed solutions
Proven experience in FPGA design and DSP implementation
Working knowledge of Embedded C/C++ and/or Python for testing, automation, or processor interaction
A solid understanding of digital communications theory and RF principles
Work on projects that genuinely matter, with national-level impact
Exposure to complex, cutting-edge technology in a secure environment
Long-term programme stability combined with opportunities to grow and specialise
Collaborative engineering culture with access to experienced technical leaders
Location & Security
Based at a secure UK site within an established engineering environment, offering good transport links and access to surrounding countryside. Due to the nature of the work, applicants must be eligible and willing to undergo Developed Vetting (DV) clearance.
We are proud of the diverse and inclusive community we have built, and we welcome applications from people of all backgrounds and perspectives. If you need any help or adjustments during the recruitment process for any reason, please let us know when you apply or talk to the recruiters directly so we can support you.
FPGA Engineer (National Security & Critical Systems) in Southampton employer: Sanderson
Contact Detail:
Sanderson Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land FPGA Engineer (National Security & Critical Systems) in Southampton
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current employees on LinkedIn or at industry events. Ask them about their experiences and any tips they might have for landing a role in FPGA engineering.
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your skills! Create a portfolio of your FPGA projects, including any DSP algorithms you've implemented. This will give you an edge during interviews and demonstrate your hands-on experience.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for technical interviews by brushing up on VHDL/Verilog and DSP concepts. Practice explaining your thought process while solving problems, as this is often just as important as getting the right answer.
✨Tip Number 4
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 our mission to solve meaningful problems.
We think you need these skills to ace FPGA Engineer (National Security & Critical Systems) in Southampton
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the FPGA Engineer role. Highlight your experience with VHDL/Verilog and DSP algorithms, as these are key for us. Use specific examples that showcase your skills and how they relate to the job description.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Share your passion for national security and how your background aligns with our mission. Be sure to mention any relevant projects you've worked on that demonstrate your expertise in hardware solutions.
Showcase Your Team Spirit: We love collaboration! In your application, mention experiences where you’ve worked closely with multidisciplinary teams. This will show us that you’re not just a tech whiz but also a great team player who can integrate well into our culture.
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 our company and what we stand for.
How to prepare for a job interview at Sanderson
✨Know Your FPGA Inside Out
Make sure you brush up on your FPGA design and development skills, especially with VHDL and Verilog. Be ready to discuss specific projects you've worked on, the challenges you faced, and how you overcame them. This will show your depth of knowledge and practical experience.
✨Showcase Your DSP Expertise
Since the role involves DSP algorithm implementation, be prepared to talk about real-time DSP algorithms like FIR/IIR filters and FFTs. Bring examples of how you've developed or optimised these algorithms in past projects, as this will demonstrate your technical capability.
✨Collaborate Like a Pro
This position requires working closely with multidisciplinary teams. Think of examples where you've successfully collaborated with software, PCB, or systems engineering teams. Highlight your communication skills and how you ensure everyone is on the same page during complex projects.
✨Understand the Bigger Picture
Familiarise yourself with the national security domain and the impact of your work. Be ready to discuss how your role as an FPGA Engineer contributes to safety and security. Showing that you understand the mission behind the technology can set you apart from other candidates.