FPGA Engineer

FPGA Engineer
Overview

We are seeking an FPGA Engineer to design, develop, and implement high-performance FPGA solutions for advanced defense and embedded systems. This role spans the full development lifecycle-from architecture and RTL design through verification, integration, and lab validation.
You will work hands-on with hardware platforms, contributing to complex systems such as sonar, underwater technologies, and next-generation defense applications.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and implement FPGA solutions using Verilog across the full development lifecycle
• Translate system requirements into robust RTL architectures and designs
• Develop and execute testbenches to verify functionality, performance, and reliability
• Interface with external hardware components (e.g., ADCs, sensors, relays, control systems)
• Implement and troubleshoot communication protocols such as SPI and RS-422
• Perform hardware integration, ensuring reliable device-level control and system operation
• Debug and optimize designs for timing closure, performance, and resource utilization
• Support board bring-up, lab testing, and system-level validation activities
• Collaborate with systems, hardware, and software engineers for full system integration
• Document design architecture, verification processes, and test results to meet program standards

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or related field
• 5+ years of FPGA/RTL design experience
• Strong proficiency in Verilog
• Experience with full FPGA development lifecycle (requirements design verification validation)
• Experience developing and executing testbenches
• Hands-on experience interfacing with external hardware (e.g., ADCs, sensors, control systems)
• Familiarity with communication protocols such as SPI and RS-422
• Experience with FPGA toolchains (Xilinx or Intel/Altera)
• Strong hardware/software integration and debugging skills
• Ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with FPGA-based signal processing systems
• Background in defense or high-reliability systems (e.g., sonar, weapons, underwater technologies)
• Expertise in timing closure and performance optimization
• Strong lab debugging and hardware bring-up experience
• Ability to work effectively in cross-functional engineering teams
• Strong technical documentation and communication skills

Work Environment

This is a hands-on, lab-intensive role with primarily onsite work and some hybrid flexibility based on program needs. You will work closely with advanced hardware, test equipment, and multidisciplinary engineering teams in support of defense programs.
Flexible work schedules (e.g., 9/80, 4/10) are available, with a culture focused on accountability, collaboration, and delivering high-quality technical solutions in a mission-driven environment.
Job Type & Location
This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Middletown, RI.
Pay and Benefits
The pay range for this position is $60.00 - $80.00/hr.
Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following:
• Medical, dental & vision
• Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital
• 401(k) Retirement Plan - Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available
• Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents)
• Short and long-term disability
• Health Spending Account (HSA)
• Transportation benefits
• Employee Assistance Program
• Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)
Workplace Type
This is a hybrid position in Middletown,RI.
Application Deadline
This position is anticipated to close on Jun 5, 2026.
About Actalent


Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 30,000 consultants and more than 4,500 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500.


The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.


If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email View email address on click.appcast.io for other accommodation options.



San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.



Massachusetts Lie Detector: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.



Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI): We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.